Garden Walks & Burger Talk 🍔

Jumping through puddles is kind of like chasing joy in inconvenient weather—messy, unplanned, and low-key magical. Today’s newsletter is a lot like that, just with fewer wet socks and more reason to dance through the drizzle. Packed with can't-miss weekend happenings, tasty recs, and local gems, it’s your personal guide to splashing straight into the fun stuff.

Weekend Must-Do’s: Rhode Island Springs Into Action This Weekend

Pack your picnic baskets and bring your curiosity—Rhode Island is bursting with things to do this weekend. From Spanish comedies and sheep shearing to whisky tastings and sea shanties, it’s the perfect time to get outside and soak in some culture (and sunshine). Read the full list online at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Ken Abrams, photo by George Bekris}

Help the Audubon Society Protect Rhode Island Turtles

As Rhode Island’s turtles emerge for nesting season, they face a treacherous journey across busy roads. Wildlife experts urge drivers to slow down and offer guidance on safely helping turtles cross, while also inviting families to celebrate these shelled locals on May 23 at the Audubon Nature Center. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Audubon Society of Rhode Island}

^{Presented by West Broadway Neighborhood Association}

Spring Blooms Draw West End Neighbors Outside on a Self-Guided Tour

April showers bring May garden envy for some, but you don’t need to have a green thumb to enjoy lush flower beds blooming around the West End! Thanks to the West Broadway Neighborhood Association’s (WBNA) Annual Garden Stroll, visitors can get an exclusive peek behind the picket fence to admire private gardens normally closed to the public, meet fellow enthusiasts, and simply enjoy strolling the neighborhood during its most colorful season.

Back by popular demand, this self-guided tour invites attendees to grab a map at WBNA headquarters and roam around at their own pace to witness a variety of charming, hidden-gem garden spaces lovingly tended by neighbors. The rain-or-shine event unfolds on Saturday, June 21, from 10am-1pm, and includes fun for the whole family, with kids’ activities, informational booths digging into gardening and environmental topics, advice from URI Master Gardeners, and more. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own garden or relishing in the talent of local landscaping legends, the event promises to captivate its audiences.

It’s through free events and programs like the Garden Stroll that WBNA enables community members to forge connections, collaborate on advocacy projects that benefit the neighborhood, and showcase the blossoming corner of the city.

“Since 1983, WBNA has been bringing neighbors in our diverse and dynamic community together around important issues, offering resources, spearheading projects that enhance the quality of life in our neighborhood, and creating opportunities for neighbors to gather, support, and learn from one another,” explains executive director Siobhan Callahan.

Don’t forget to swing by small businesses in the neighborhood while you’re peeping plants to find special deals for garden strollers!

Stop by 1560 Westminster Street to start your jaunt on June 21, and visit WBNA.org for more details and updates, as well as information about the neighborhood association’s wide range of projects.

Madrid Bakery Elevates Barrington’s Pastry Game

The beloved Providence patisserie brings European flair to Barrington with its elegant second location. From the golden, creamy Pastel Vasco to the showstopping San Marcos cake, Madrid European Bakery delivers a luxurious experience that’s as delicious as it is refined. Read more online at TheBay.com.

^{• Writing and photography by Gina Mastrostefano}

This Week on Hey Rhody Weekly: Rhody Burgers are for Any Meal!

Who says burgers have a bedtime? On this week’s Hey Rhody Weekly, Elyse, Nick, and Jenna sink their teeth into Rhode Island’s juiciest patties and prove that any time is burger time.

Revolve Dance Project Fuses Live Music and Movement in Sound in Form Premiere

On June 29, Revolve Dance Project returns with Sound in Form—a bold fusion of live music and dance featuring seven world-premiere works. From NYC Ballet stars to Grammy-recognized musicians, the show champions artistic collaboration and creative risk. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{•By Jenna Kaplan, photo by Jon Doucette}