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Hungry for What’s Coming? 🤤
Dig into a foodie fest returning to PVD this spring, sneak a peek at Theatre By The Sea’s summer lineup, catch the latest Hey Rhody Weekly, + more!
Snowstorms in Providence usually bring out sleds, shovels, and the occasional parking spot war – but this week, they also unearthed a surprise guest. One local discovered an exotic tegu lizard trying to crawl out of the snow, and thanks to quick thinking, a warm T-shirt, and the dedicated team at the New England Wildlife Center, the frosty reptile is now on the mend. While we wait to see if this snow-loving lizard becomes the unofficial mascot of winter 2026, we’ve got plenty of events and stories in today's newsletter to keep you warm, cozy, and thoroughly entertained.
Providence Culinary Collective Returns With a Jam-Packed Lineup
The Providence Culinary Collective returns March 26–29 with more chefs, more experiences, and more reasons to eat your way across the city. From drag brunches and hands-on classes to wine tastings, chef showdowns, and comedy headliners, this four-day festival is serving peak spring flavor in Providence. Read more online.
Rhody Gem: A Souvenir Stop in PVD You Didn’t Know Existed
Located inside the Rhode Island State House, this low-key gift shop is a treasure trove of local pride, from Independent Man ornaments and State House shot glasses to Blackstone Valley coffee syrup and Rhode Island–themed totes. Pair a browse with a State House tour and you have an unexpectedly fun winter outing that checks both the local-love and history boxes. Read more online.
Metropolis Lights Up The JPT With Live Music and Lost Footage
A century after its original screening, Metropolis is back at the Jane Pickens Theater with a newly restored cut and a live improvised score by silent film maestro Jeff Rapsis. This one-night-only event reimagines a sci-fi classic through a modern lens, complete with a hauntingly familiar take on class, tech, and the future we now live in. Read more online.
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 |
|---|---|
Friday 1/30 | Monster Jam Monster trucks take over the Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence from January 30 to February 1, bringing gravity-defying stunts, head-to-head races, and fan-favorite vehicles like Grave Digger and El Toro Loco for an action-packed experience the whole family will remember. Learn more online ⸻. Water Chemistry Workshop Brew a better cu ap from 4–5:30pm at Borealis Coffee Company in Bristol, where this hands-on workshop dives into how water chemistry shapes coffee flavor, complete with tastings, practical tips, and a take-home bag of coffee. Learn more online ⸻ Sea Shanty Night Sing along from 6-9:30pm at George’s of Galilee, where URI Marine Affairs students and faculty lead a lively sea shanty night joined by the Anchors Away Brass Band, plus seafood bites and brews to keep the energy high. Learn more online ⸻ Tequila Pairing Experience at Agave Social Sip and savor from 6-8pm at Agave Social in Narragansett, where a guided tasting of premium blanco tequilas is paired with authentic Mexican bites for a flavor-forward evening out. Learn more online ⸻ Boogie Wonder Band at the Stadium Theatre Get ready to dance starting at 8pm at the Stadium Theatre in Woonsocket, where the high-energy, 10-piece Boogie Wonder Band brings disco-era hits, dazzling costumes, and full-on ’70s sparkle to the stage. Learn more online |
Saturday 1/31 | Save One Soul Adoption Event Stop by SOS Retail in Wakefield from 11am-1pm to meet adoptable pups, learn more about fostering or volunteering, and maybe fall in love with your future furry roommate. Learn more online ⸻ Valentine Crafts For A Cause MoonStone Art Studio in Warwick is hosting a free, all-ages crafting event from 10am-1pm where attendees can make handmade valentines to donate to local seniors, with all supplies provided and a whole lot of heart built in. Learn more online ⸻ Bookish Cocktail Party From 6-9pm in Pawtucket, Book Around hosts a cozy evening of literary-inspired cocktails and conversations — perfect for book lovers who enjoy their stories with a splash of something shaken or stirred. Learn more online ⸻ Free Family Fun Day at Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium Spend the day exploring from 10am–3pm at the Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium in Bristol, where families can enjoy animal encounters, nature stories, crafts, hikes, and hands-on learning, all at no cost. Learn more online ⸻. Queers and Beers of Rhode Island 4th Birthday Party ⸻ Cold Joy Author Talk, Breakfast & Dip with Libby Delana Hosted by The Yellow House, this morning gathering runs from 9-11am at Sakonnet Point Club in Little Compton and features an author talk and Q&A celebrating Cold Joy, breakfast, and an optional group plunge for those ready to embrace the cold. Learn more online ⸻ Game On! Meet and mingle from 7-9pm at Tower Hill Brewing Co. in South Kingstown, where local singles can dive into indoor yard games, enjoy a charcuterie spread, and swap screen time for laughs and friendly competition. Learn more online Wine & Olive Oil Pairing Experience Taste and learn from 2–4pm at The Langworthy Inn & Winery in Westerly during this guided pairing experience that brings together extra virgin olive oils, local wines, artisan breads, and curated charcuterie for an afternoon of flavorful discovery. Learn more online |
Sunday 2/1 | PVD FLEA Valentine Markets Kicking off at 11am at Farm Fresh Market Hall in Providence, this first festive Sunday market brings together local makers, vintage treasures, and sweet treats perfect for Valentine’s gifting and winter wandering. Learn more online ⸻ Providence Freeplay Family Day From 11am-5pm in Providence, Freeplay Bar & Arcade invites families to enjoy unlimited arcade games, skee ball, air hockey, and pinball all for $12 a person. Learn more online ⸻ KPOP Demon Hunters Brunch From 10am-12pm at Medici Lounge in Providence, this high-energy brunch experience brings together live performances, dancing, meet-and-greets with fan-favorite characters, and a breakfast buffet for a lively, family-friendly morning out. Learn more online ⸻ Chakra Tune-Up: Snow Full Moon Sound Bath Unwind from 6-7pm at Nurture Holistic Wellness in East Greenwich during this guided Snow Full Moon experience, blending meditation, breath work, and sound healing to support release, balance, and renewal in the heart of winter. Learn more online ⸻ Providence Royal Princess Ball Step into a fairytale from 10am-3:30pm at the Providence Marriott Downtown, where families can enjoy a full day of princess meet-and-greets, interactive performances, dancing, story time, and magical moments designed especially for young royal fans. Learn more online ⸻ Grand Wedding Expo From 11am-3pm at Bally’s Twin River Casino & Event Center in Lincoln, this all-in-one wedding planning expo brings together top vendors, emerging trends, and a bridal fashion runway show to help couples plan their big day in a single afternoon. Learn more online ⸻ Create Lavender Wreaths & Needle Felt Lovebirds at Roots Heaven Farm Settle in from 1-3pm at Roots Heaven Farm in Smithfield for a cozy, hands-on workshop where guests can craft a petite lavender wreath and needle-felted lovebirds, then wander the farm to visit alpacas, goats, and miniature donkeys for a calm, creative afternoon. Learn more online |
Monday 2/2 | CiderCon 2026 CiderCon takes place February 2 to 5 at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence, bringing together makers, growers, and industry leaders for tastings, workshops, and conversations focused on Crafting Cider’s Future Together. Learn more online ⸻ Monday Trivia at Diego’s East Side Head to Wayland Square in Providence from 6:30-8:30pm for Monday Night Trivia at Diego’s East Side, where margarita and nacho specials, fun brain teasers, and gift card prizes for the top teams make it the perfect way to kick off your week. Learn more online |
Our Rhody Rec list is refreshed with every newsletter, so be sure to check back for the latest events!
This Week on Hey Rhody Weekly: 4 Must-Try Igloo Dining Experiences in Rhode Island This Winter ❄️
Looking for a unique way to enjoy winter in Rhode Island? In this week’s episode of Hey Rhody Weekly, we’re taking you inside 4 of the coziest, most magical igloo dining experiences around the Ocean State. From twinkling lights and plush blankets to ocean views and rooftop vibes, these heated outdoor domes are the perfect escape from the cold!
Theatre By The Sea Announces 2026 Summer Season With Broadway Favorites
Theatre By The Sea is giving Rhode Islanders a welcome midwinter escape with the announcement of its four-show 2026 summer season in Wakefield, packed with beloved Broadway musicals and coastal charm. With subscriptions now on sale, theatergoers can start planning warm summer nights by the water long before beach weather arrives. Read more online.
⭐ Want to spot animal tracks, meet turtles, and explore nature without leaving Johnston? The Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council and 15 Minute Field Trips are bringing a full year of free, family-friendly nature walks to the Manton Pond site with Greenway Wild Walks. Held once a month, each event includes hands-on activities, seasonal themes, and guided exploration to help residents of all ages connect with the outdoors right in their own neighborhood. Register for this weekend’s event!
⭐ What happens when a local eye surgeon turns her focus inward to how we see ourselves? Rhode Island-based eye physician and surgeon Dr. Durga Larkin has just released her new book Timeless Vision: Empowered Aging Redefined, and it is already a bestseller. Drawing on years of clinical experience and personal insight, the book offers a compassionate and practical guide for navigating midlife with clarity, confidence, and purpose. With a fresh take on aging, Dr. Larkin invites readers to embrace this next chapter with a renewed sense of empowerment.
⭐ What happens when eight artists in residence move in creative rhythm together? Murmurations, on view at the WaterFire Arts Center from January 29 to March 1, brings together the 2025–2026 Steel Yard residents in a group exhibition shaped by movement, memory, and material. Through ceramics, jewelry, and metalwork, each artist contributes to a powerful collective reflection on transformation, community, and the spaces we share.