Gala Nights & Gift Delights 🌟

Earth Day is in full bloom, and so is your inbox - with Rhode Island goodness sprouting up all over. From gift ideas that’ll wow Mom to community strolls that deserve a spot on your calendar, today’s newsletter is your guide to doing good and living well.

Make Mother’s Day the Bee’s Knees with These Sweet Gifts

Mother’s Day and World Bee Day are buzzing into May with perfect timing—and so are these gift picks from women-owned brands. From dainty, daisy-worthy jewels to honey-hued PJs and loose-leaf tea kits, this list has all the hive-approved goodies to spoil Mom. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Elyse Major}

Giselle Haunts the Stage in State of RI Ballet’s 65th Season?

The State Ballet of Rhode Island is celebrating its milestone year with Giselle, a ghostly tale of love and redemption that pirouettes from vineyard bliss to graveyard gloom. With spooky promo shots taken in a local cemetery and performances set for May 22–23, this classic ballet gets a Rhode Island twist that’s both eerie and enchanting. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

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

^{Presented by Providence Children’s Museum}

A Glamorous Gala Supports Providence Children’s Museum’s Community Programming

You won’t need to rely on the power of imagination to experience a star-studded night at Providence Children’s Museum (PCM). Their biggest fundraiser of the year, Cocktails & Kicks Gala: Old Hollywood promises an evening of glamor on April 26, featuring specialty drinks, games, and auctions, all for a good cause.

“The funds raised during this event will go directly towards our Access Program, which ensures that all children, regardless of their financial circumstances, can enjoy the museum’s exhibits and programs,” explains Victoria Picinich, director of development and external relations. Community support is essential to PCM’s continued growth as they work toward expanding expertise in therapeutic play, enhancing their Mental Health Initiative’s reach and resources, providing professional development to educators and mental health professionals, and, of course, championing the power of play.

“At PCM, we know play,” says Picinich. “We’ve been play experts for over 48 years. It’s more than just fun – it’s a powerful tool for learning, healing, and community connection.” Reaching over 200,000 families annually, PCM turns curious minds into young scientists, engineers, and empathetic historians through a range of programming, but their work also goes beyond museum walls.

Families Together creates a nurturing environment for parents and children in the foster system to rebuild bonds. Families learn essential parenting skills while therapeutic play sparks joyful memories – all services free of charge. PCM also promotes emotional literacy through the groundbreaking Mental Health Initiative, which empowers participants with resources and programs like Wellness Wednesdays. “Through strategic partnerships with organizations like Adoption Rhode Island and Friends Way, we extend these vital services to children and families facing unique challenges informed by trauma.”

More than just a fun day at the museum, PCM sets families and children on enriching journeys. “Join us in building a community where every child and family can thrive through the power of play.” Find tickets for Cocktails & Kicks Gala: Old Hollywood at ProvidenceChildrensMuseum.org.

• By Abbie Lahmers

Raise a Glass to Porchfest Season

Before music fills the porches of the East Side this June, Narragansett Brewery is kicking things off with a high-energy fundraiser on May 3. With live sets from Funkademic and Stoneaways, plus brews and community spirit, it’s the perfect prelude to Providence Porchfest’s biggest year yet. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo by Ken Abrams}

Why East Greenwich’s Main Street Is a Must-Stroll in 2025

From chalk art to pup parades and seasonal sips, East Greenwich’s Main Street is turning every stroll into a celebration this year. With themed events running from May through December, it’s your all-access pass to local flavor, small biz love, and nonstop community vibes. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo by Ryan Blanding}

#HeyRhodyPhotos

Swan Point Cemetery or secret garden? Hard to tell in spring.🌸

Photo by @jennybrownart

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