Festival Beats & Pumpkin Treats 🪕

Uncover handmade pumpkin magic in West Kingston, 10 ways to enjoy Rhythm & Roots Festival, Park Theatre’s autumn lineup, + more!

School may be back in session, but summer isn’t clocking out just yet – and today’s newsletter is here to savor the best of the season while sprinkling in a little fall preview. From handcrafted pottery pumpkins sprouting in West Kingston to a new vintage boutique in Providence (perfect for finding your next autumn staple), we’ve rounded up happenings that celebrate the now and hint at what’s ahead. Think of it as your guide to keeping the summer spirit alive while getting excited for what’s next.

Secondhand Saint Brings Affordable Vintage Style to Providence

After a breakup and a big move, Haley Murray found her fresh start in opening Secondhand Saint, a vintage boutique where retro fashion meets affordability. With racks spanning decades and a mission rooted in sustainability, her shop feels more like playing dress-up in a stylish friend’s closet than traditional thrifting. Read more online.

• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Haley Murray

Peter Pots Pottery Shapes Fall Tradition with Handcrafted Pumpkins

West Kingston’s Peter Pots Pottery brings autumn to life with its annual collection of one-of-a-kind ceramic jack o’lanterns. Each handmade piece, released weekly online and at an in-studio Pumpkin Bash, blends artistry with Halloween whimsy and cozy seasonal charm. Read more online.

• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Peter Pots Pottery

Presented by PVDFest

PVDFest Returns to Downtown Providence

PVDFest is back! Get ready to take over the streets of Downtown Providence on September 5–6, 2025, as Mayor Brett Smiley, the City’s Department of Art, Culture and Tourism, and Producing Partner FirstWorks bring you the ultimate celebration of creativity, culture, and community.

Encounter talking jaw-dropping performances from around the globe, live music that’ll have you dancing in the streets, larger-than-life art installations, a buzzing makers' market, a parade for all, and delicious eats from the best local and international food trucks. Whether you're a local or just visiting, PVDFest is your chance to experience the electric energy of the Creative Capital like never before. Mark your calendar, grab your crew, and don’t miss the most unforgettable weekend of the year. PVDFest is a free event. For more information, visit PVDFest.com.

Park Theatre Brings Star-Packed Lineup to Cranston

Cranston’s Historic Park Theatre, freshly revitalized under Spectacle Live’s Peter Lally, is cementing its role as the city’s cultural heartbeat. From legendary storytellers and iconic Motown to comedy, magic, and cult-classic concerts, the venue’s late-summer lineup proves this century-old stage is only getting brighter. Read more online.

• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of The Historic Park Theatre

Rhody Recs is your weekly roundup of what’s happening across the state, a built-in excuse to rally the crew early instead of scrambling for plans at the last minute. Because let’s be real, life’s too short to leave the fun for last minute.

Date

Event

Wednesday 8/27

Thrive, Art & Giggles

Thrive Pilates in Newport hosts a lively afternoon on August 27 with local art, an Amy Martin book signing, and plenty of bubbles and bites to keep the fun flowing. Learn more online

Jam Session at The District

Newport Jazz takes over The District in Providence from 8-11pm with a no-cover jam session celebrating the legendary music of Freddie Hubbard. Learn more online.

Thursday 8/28

Ace the Taste at Fame Fest
Grant’s Block in Downtown Providence lights up with a free outdoor screening of Clue at dusk – bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and guess whodunit under the stars. Learn more online

Short Films for Short People

The Providence Children’s Film Festival lights up Bally’s Event Lawn at 195 District Park at sunset with Passionate Pursuits, a reel of inspiring short films made just for kids (and kids at heart). Learn more online

Friday 8/29

Rhythm & Roots Festival
Charlestown’s Ninigret Park comes alive Labor Day weekend with zydeco, Cajun, and Americana music, plus plenty of dancing and local bites. Learn more online.

Pawtucket Gallery Night
As part of the Pawtucket Arts Festival, galleries across the city open their doors from 5:30-8pm for an evening of local art, community, and creative discovery. Learn more online. 

Saturday 8/30

The Lemonade Stand Festival
195 District Park in Providence serves up sweet summer vibes with live music, public art, and a creative marketplace that’s pure zest for the soul. Learn more online

Rhode Island Chinese Dragon Boat Festival & Taiwan Day

The Pawtucket River comes alive with dragon boat races, cultural performances, authentic eats, and the always epic dumpling-eating contest at this free celebration of Asian culture and community. Learn more online.

Sunday 8/31

Park Ave Picnic & Fireworks

Sunset Cove in Portsmouth hosts the 8th annual community bash with live music, food trucks, local vendors, and a dazzling fireworks show over the water at dark. Learn more online.

Garden City Farmer’s Market

Garden City Center in Cranston hosts a lively farmers market from 10am-2pm with fresh produce, local makers, live music, and even a craft beer garden, plus free admission and parking. Learn more online

Our Rhody Rec list is refreshed with every newsletter, so be sure to check back for the latest events!

10 Must-Do Experiences at Rhythm and Roots Festival This Labor Day Weekend

From Cajun two-stepping in the Dance Tent to savoring Del’s Lemonade between sets, Rhythm and Roots packs the long weekend with unforgettable moments. With headliners like Little Feat, fresh flavors from local food trucks, and a brand-new luxury lounge, here are 10 experiences that make this Charlestown tradition a true must-do. Read more online.

• Writing and photography Ken Abrams

⭐ Need a little sunshine with your snuggles? Serendipity Farm in Coventry welcomes back Calf Cuddles, with their newest arrival “LJ” (short for Little Josey) ready to charm visitors through Labor Day Weekend and every weekend in September. Book a spot to meet the calf, soak up the farm vibes, and enjoy one of Rhode Island’s sweetest traditions.

Ever stumbled upon a magical creature in the woods? Three brand-new giant trolls by Danish recycle-artist Thomas Dambo now dot Rhode Island landscapes – spotted in North Kingstown, Exeter, and East Providence – welcome reminders of creativity and conservation in action.

⭐ Looking for a new way to explore downtown Providence? The new Wayfinding Anchors installation features five brightly colored sculptures that act as both a treasure hunt and an interactive soundscape – turn the crank and you’ll fill the streets with music from local artists, creating a welcoming soundtrack to the city.

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Troll sighting in East Providence! 🧌

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