Fishes, French Fare & Folk Fun! 🎶

Did you know the average human attention span has dropped to just 8.25 seconds, even shorter than a goldfish’s and still shrinking? The time it took you to read that? Just a little under 8 seconds. So while we still have your attention, let’s dive into today’s newsletter. From unexpected ways to unwind, including one with a camel, to local festivals you won’t want to miss and more, here’s exactly what deserves your focus today.

Stretch, Breathe, and Say Hi to a Camel at Lavender Yoga

On a scenic Rhode Island lavender farm, Sunday yoga comes with more than just downward dog – it comes with camels, alpacas, and the scent of 4,000 blooming lavender plants. Lavender Yoga blends mindfulness, farm charm, and sound healing into the most serene hour of your week. Read more online.

^{• By Caitlyn Bailey, photo courtesy of Kay Bee}

Local Artists Take the Spotlight at Newport Folk Festival

Rhode Island’s own Tyler-James Kelly, Tyler Ballgame, and Roz Raskin of Nova One will kick off each day of this weekend’s sold-out Newport Folk Festival alongside legends like Kenny Loggins and Public Enemy. For the homegrown talent, playing the historic festival is both a surreal honor and a chance to showcase the diverse, evolving sound of folk music to a packed Fort Stage. Read more online.

^{• By Ken Abrams, photo courtesy of Bermuda Records}

Presented by RI State Parks

Unlock Unlimited Summer Fun with a RI State Beach Pass

There’s a reason both locals and tourists flock to Rhode Island’s coastline every summer. With eight public state beaches stretching from Westerly to Narragansett, the Ocean State offers no shortage of sun, surf, and shoreline to explore. Thanks to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and its Division of Parks and Recreation, getting your parking pass to enjoy these natural gems has never been easier.

Managing more than 8,200 acres of public land, DEM oversees not only beaches but also parks, bike paths, historic sites, and trails. This vast network draws nearly nine million visitors each year and sets the stage for major events, like the Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals.

At the heart of many summer traditions is the RI State Beach Parking Pass, a one-time purchase that offers parking access at all eight state beaches for a one-time cost for the entire summer. For frequent beachgoers, it’s a convenient, cost-effective alternative to daily rates, making spontaneous trips to the shore that much simpler.

“We’re excited to welcome everyone to swim, relax, and make memories with friends and family at Rhode Island’s beautiful state beaches,” said DEM Director Terry Gray. “With thousands of people heading to the shore, we’re encouraging everyone to enjoy them safely, be respectful to our staff and fellow beachgoers, and soak up every moment of this special summer tradition.”

This year, DEM introduced several helpful updates to improve the experience. Returning customers with no changes to their vehicle or account information can now skip the online verification process, making checkout faster than ever. The agency also opened a new in-person sales office at Fishermen’s Memorial State Park in Narragansett and expanded its real- time parking tracker to include all eight state beaches.

Whether you’re heading to Charlestown Breachway, Misquamicut, Scarborough, or Salty Brine, the state beach season pass offers a smart way to invest in summer fun. Find the full list of beaches, check parking availability, and buy your pass at riparks.ri.gov/beachpass.

Instagram: @RIStateParks

Facebook: @RIStateParks

^{• Photo courtesy of RI State Parks}

Bridging Jazz, Dance, and Music Sparks Newport Festival Week

Salve Regina’s Bridging the Gap festival returns July 28-Aug 4 to reunite jazz dance and music through lectures, live performances, and classes. Highlights include a historic jazz lounge night at Ochre Court blending tap, Cuban rhythms, and improvisation in real time. Read more online.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Salve Regina}

Audette Reimagines Newport Dining With French Flair

Newport’s iconic Bouchard restaurant has transformed into Audette, blending Parisian elegance with a modern and approachable vibe. The new team keeps beloved French classics like Grand Marnier soufflé and escargot on the menu while adding fresh energy through a chic redesign, lively bar scene and seasonal locally sourced dishes. Read more online.

^{• By Andrea E. McHugh, photo courtesy of Audette}

#HeyRhodyPhotos

This past weekend in bloom in Newport 💙

Photo by @ingridlp15

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