Clouds Can’t Stop the Local Pop ⛅

Chase the rainy day blues away with weekend indulgences, the latest Hey Rhody Weekly, chef-worthy celebrations, + more!

Say it with me: April showers bring May flowers. And hey, a little rain never hurt anyone – especially when sunnier days are just around the corner. If you're not quite up for dancing in the rain this weekend, today's newsletter has you covered (literally). From cozy indoor events to local happenings that’ll lift your spirits and bring you to a sunshine state of mind, we’ve got everything you need to make the most of the gray.

Weekend Must-Do’s: Kick Off April With Color, Comics, and Crafty Fun!

Rhode Island’s weekend lineup features everything from comic book hunts to emo yoga and fiery food challenges. Rain or shine, locals can dive into live music, DIY workshops, and upbeat performances across the state. Read the full list online at HeyRhody.com.

• By Caitlyn Bailey, photo by Sachyn Mital, courtesy of FirstWorks

Steve Roth Fuses Ballet and Game Theory in Upcoming Exhibit at AS220

Visual artist Steve Roth debuts Game Theory v. Ballet this May at AS220 in Providence, blending dance, economics, and disability into a powerful narrative. Centered on life with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, the exhibit challenges viewers to rethink identity, adaptation, and connection through 75 striking works. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Steve Roth

Presented by RI Energy

Unlock Comfort, Savings, and Sustainability Right at Home

Rhode Islanders: Is your home as efficient as you’d like it to be? Rhode Island Energy's Home Energy Assessment program can bring you a full, no cost evaluation of your home's energy efficiency—and so much more.

In just two hours, an expert Energy Specialist will conduct a thorough inspection of your home, identifying areas for potential energy savings and improvements. During the assessment, you may receive energy-saving devices like thermostats, low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, and advanced power strips at no cost. The specialist will also inspect your insulation and look for drafts and air leaks that could be wasting energy.

If insulation improvements are recommended, Rhode Island Energy will cover 50-100% of the cost. Air sealing may also be covered at 100%. And if you need a heating system upgrade, you may receive rebates on equipment and 0% financing.

 

To take advantage of this program, Rhode Island Energy customers can call 1-888-633-7947 to schedule their assessment. You can also request an appointment online at rienergy.com/saveathome.

Don’t miss your chance to make your home more energy efficient. Schedule your no cost Home Energy Assessment today to reduce your environmental impact, lower your energy usage, and increase your home’s value and comfort.

Check Out Our Latest on Youtube: Spotlighting Women, Wine, and What’s Next in RI

This week on Hey Rhody Weekly, we raise a glass to the trailblazing women shaping the Ocean State, get a taste of what’s next in local wine, and map out the can’t-miss events for April. From bold moves to bold flavors, Rhode Island’s got spring vibes on tap.

Ink Fish Books Launches Glamorous Book Bag Inspired by Desperate Deadly Widows

Ink Fish Books just dropped the 2025 Desperate Deadly Widows Book Bag, blending crime, couture, and Rhode Island-made glam. Timed with the sizzling new thriller’s release, each bundle pairs femme-fatale flair with local artisan goodies – including champagne-scented soap and murderously chic accessories. Read more on our latest blog at HeyRhody.com.

• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Inkfish Books

What happens when innovation meets determination? The Wickford Middle School Robotic Team has been crowned the #1 team in Rhody and is gearing up to compete at the VEX IQ World Championships in Dallas this May. Now, they’re seeking sponsors to help fuel their journey from North Kingstown to the global stage.

Craving a little spring fling with plants, art, and home décor? Bloom Flower and Home Market is back April 5–6 at the WaterFire Arts Center, transforming the space with 90+ booths of lush greenery, handmade goods, and curated treasures. Each ticket includes a drink so you can sip while you shop (and probably adopt one more cactus).

  What if the only way to hear an album was to really listen? Eight-time Boston Music Award winner Will Dailey brings his new, unstreamable album Boys Talking to The Parlour in Providence on April 4. It’s a rare, offline experience that puts the music, and the moment, first.

 Which Rhode Island chefs are getting national recognition in 2025? Culinary talents are in the spotlight as James Beard Award nominees: Nikhil Naiker of NIMKI (Emerging Chef) and both Derek Wagner of Nicks on Broadway and Sky Haneul Kim of Gift Horse (Best Chef: Northeast). Plus, Oberlin in Providence is up for Outstanding Restaurant, placing the Ocean State firmly on the national food map. Want the full scoop on Rhode Island's James Beard nods? Read our original coverage here.

Rhode Island Serves Up a Birthday Feast for Jacques Pépin

To honor culinary legend Jacques Pépin’s 90th birthday, top Rhode Island chefs are cooking up celebratory events that marry French finesse with local flavor. As part of a nationwide 90/90 campaign, the state’s most lauded kitchens are hosting curated dinners, coastal getaways, and toasts worthy of Pépin’s iconic legacy. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

• By Jenna Kaplan, photo by Eric Vitale