Apple Delights and Weekend Sights 🍎 (9/5/24)

One of the best parts of living in Rhode Island is the endless opportunities for adventure – and this weekend is serving up more fun than a bushel of apples at a fall fair. Whether you're savoring September’s favorite orchard harvest or soaking up the magic of statewide festivals, there's something to keep every Rhody resident entertained.

Weekend Must-Do’s: Can’t-Miss Festivals for All!

Get ready for a weekend filled with festivals – seafood, arts, and quilts, oh my! Don’t miss out on the chance to party with birds, listen to chamber music, revel in a night at the theater, and more. Read the full list of weekend must-do’s online at HeyRhody.com.

_{• By Abbie Lahmers, photo courtesy of RI Seafood Festival}

North Kingstown Continues to Celebrate 350 Years

North Kingstown’s year-long 350-year anniversary celebration continues this fall, showcasing history and community. From its origins as a trading post to its vibrant present, this coastal town’s story is one of resilience, diversity, and deep-rooted heritage. Read more online at SoRhodeIsland.com.

^{• By Ken Abrams, photos courtesy of 350th Anniversary Steering Committee}

This Week on Hey Rhody Weekly: Specialty Bars, Newport Nitro, & More!

In this week’s episode, we explore Providence's top specialty bars, sip on Newport’s nitro brews, and discover local gems you won’t want to miss. Dive into the latest episode of Hey Rhody Weekly for your dose of Rhode Island’s best spots and hidden treasures!

Presented by PVDFest

PVDFest Turns Downtown Into a Spectacle September 6-7

The Creative Capital’s signature outdoor arts festival returns to the vibrant city center this year with a host of spectacles and sounds. Taking place September 6-7, PVDFest – presented by Mayor Brett P. Smiley; the City’s Department of Art, Culture, Tourism; and producing partner FirstWorks – will be one for the books.

Downtown is transformed into a stage for international and local performances, art installations, parades, artisan markets, and world-class cuisine. Among the thrills slated for this year is the return of eVenti Verticali, with a new performance: SPHERE. FirstWorks brings this gravity-defying group of five Italian aerial dancers to Providence, inviting audiences on a journey of reflection for the planet we call home – and did we mention they’ll be suspended from a crane 60 feet in the air? Catch the awe-inspiring act on Friday at 4:45pm and 7pm, and Saturday, 2:30pm and 7:30pm.

Other highlights include two events that will keep you grooving all weekend. On opening night Friday, new and seasoned salsa dancers alike can twirl around the dance floor for Salsa Night, with a free lesson by Providence instructor Rodney Eric Lopez at 7pm, followed by Lulada Club, an all-women salsa band from New York City, from 7:30-9pm. Closing out the festivities is djembe master Sidy Maiga’s 12th Annual Afrika Nyaga Drum and Dance Festival on Saturday, from 4:30-7:30pm. Celebrate West African music and dance with inspiring performances by Graca, Manolo Mairena & La Pura Vida, Haus of Glitter, Providence Drum Troupe, Sidy Maiga & The Bridge Where We Meet, and Valerie Tutson from the Rhode Island Black Storytellers.

From live music and food trucks in Kennedy Plaza and Burnside Park to maker spaces and cultural heritage festivals, downtown will be a dynamic hub of creativity, community, and celebration. For a full lineup and more information, visit PVDFest.com.

^{• By Abbie Lahmers, photo courtesy PVDFest}

Local Organizations Lead Rhode Island’s Zero-Waste Movement

Rhode Island is making strides in sustainability, with organizations like Epic Renewal setting new standards for zero-waste events. Founded by Tess Feigenbaum and B. Baba, Epic Renewal offers practical solutions to help local caterers and venues minimize landfill waste and repurpose excess food. Read more on our latest blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Dana Siles}

From Cider to Sweets, 10 Ways to Enjoy Apples

As summer waves its final goodbye, the apple takes center stage in Rhode Island's restaurants and orchards. Whether it's sipped as cider, baked into treats, or adding a crisp note to savory dishes, this season's star fruit is ripe for the picking. Read more online at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Patty J, photo courtesy of Lani’s Apple Sangria}