Turns out all that sunshine I wished for last week came with a side of scorching. Now I’m melting faster than an ice cream cone on Narragansett Beach pavement. When it gets this hot, our favorite cool-down tactic is diving into a breezy read– aka today’s newsletter. We’ve got weekend plans, local gems, and everything you need to stay cool while keeping your social calendar hot.

Weekend Must-Do’s: Soak Up Rhody’s Summer Start With Art, Music & Movement

This weekend, Rhode Island is bursting with can’t-miss events – from a waterfront music fest on Ragged Island to a breezy car-free stroll along Newport’s iconic Ocean Drive. Whether you're chasing classical tunes, strawberry treats, or a dose of fashion flair, there’s a vibe for every kind of weekend warrior. Read the full list online.

^{• By Caitlyn Bailey, photo courtesy of Ragged Island Music Festival}

Savor Rhode Island’s Culinary Scene at Taste of RI

Taste of Rhode Island returns June 11 with a feast for the senses: unlimited tastings, craft cocktails, live music and a red carpet experience. This year’s event also doubles as a fundraiser, supporting displaced staff of Matunuck Oyster Bar after a recent fire.  Read more on our blog.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Taste of RI}

Learn AI in 5 minutes a day

What’s the secret to staying ahead of the curve in the world of AI? Information. Luckily, you can join 1,000,000+ early adopters reading The Rundown AI — the free newsletter that makes you smarter on AI with just a 5-minute read per day.

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^{Presented by Moonshine Alley}

Southern Flavor Meets Rhody Charm at Moonshine Alley

Just steps from downtown Providence’s biggest attractions, a taste of Nashville draws crowds with bold flavors, lively tunes, and Southern charm. Moonshine Alley, a bar and restaurant on Pine Street, redefines comfort food with a Rhode Island twist—and now, it's turning up the heat for summer.

Open daily for lunch and dinner, Moonshine Alley has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors heading to the AMP, WaterFire, or a night out downtown. The restaurant keeps guests coming back with its signature blend of great food, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere that draws everyone from sports fans to bachelorette parties.

This summer, Moonshine Alley turns up the flavor with a fresh menu featuring standout bites like the Pimento Chicken Sandwich, a Southern favorite stacked with crispy buttermilk-fried chicken, creamy housemade pimento cheese, dill pickles, and a sweet-hot drizzle of honey. Starting in mid-May, weekend brunch takes a down-home twist with crave-worthy plates like Chicken & Waffles, Short Rib Hash, and the Mountain Java Espresso – a boozy iced coffee riff on the classic espresso martini.

But the food tells only half the story. Four nights a week, Moonshine Alley hosts live performances, ranging from intimate acoustic sets by local artists to national acts lighting up the stage. It’s the kind of place where a meal becomes a memory, and maybe even a dance floor moment.

As summer brings festivals, concerts, and celebrations back to the city, Moonshine Alley stands out as the perfect pre-show dinner spot, weekend brunch haven, or go-to destination for live music and craft cocktails.

Ready to kick back, Southern-style? Visit www.MoonshineAlley.com to explore the new menu, check out upcoming shows, and see why Moonshine Alley is becoming downtown Providence’s most spirited hangout.

^{• By Avvi, photo courtesy of Moonshine Alley}

PVDFest Roars Back to Providence This September

PVDFest returns September 5–6 with a bold lineup of street performances, public art, and multicultural celebration. Headliners include Squonk’s colossal interactive show Brouhaha, a tribute mural for AS220, and live music, markets, and more throughout downtown. Read more on our latest blog.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of PVDfest}

Our Latest on Youtube: Cafes That Flip the Script After Dark

In this week’s Hey Rhody Weekly, Nick, Elyse, and Jenna spill the beans on Rhode Island spots that double as cozy cafés by day and buzzy bars by night. Grab your latte (or your lager) and tune in for their favorite day-to-night hangouts.

Songwriters Give Shelter Pets a Voice at Paws & Listen Festival

Musicians team up with rescue animals for a heartfelt new event debuting June 14 at The Guild in Pawtucket. The Paws & Listen Songwriter Festival pairs original songs with adoptable pets, spotlighting emotional stories and inspiring forever homes. Read more on our blog.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan}