Local Love & Bites 🩵

If spring cleaning counts as cardio, we deserve a medal – and maybe a mimosa. The pollen’s flying, the peepers are peeping, and the Ocean State is bursting with reasons to get out (or stay in and read this newsletter – we don’t judge). Either way, today’s newsletter is packed with fresh finds, fun events, and the kind of inspo that pairs perfectly with open windows and a breeze that smells like possibility.

Meet the Rhode Island Artist Turning Thread and Canvas into Functional Art

Suzanne Noonan is turning fine art into floor art – literally. With hand-painted, fiber-rich canvases designed to be walked on, the Rhode Island artist invites you to stop admiring from afar and start living with your art (shoes optional). Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Suzanne Noonan}

Newport Restaurant Group Serves Up Spring with Two Must-Try Culinary Events

Newport Restaurant Group is plating up two distinct culinary events to celebrate spring. Wine lovers can indulge in a Canard Vineyard dinner at 22 Bowen’s on April 23, while Avvio’s Best of Italy prix fixe menu brings rustic Italian comfort to Cranston through April 27. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Newport Restaurant Group}

^{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

RI Places to Patronize on Independent Bookstore Store

Independent Bookstore Day is coming up on April 26, and Rhode Island shops are ready with literary-themed merch perfect for gifting. From mugs to totes, local stores across the state are stocked – just check online for availability and event updates. Read more online at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Elyse Major}

Rhode Island Red Food Tours Celebrates 10 Tasty Years

Rhode Island Red Food Tours is marking a decade of delicious, hyper-local culinary adventures across Providence and Newport. Since 2015, the company has blended storytelling, architecture, and flavor into walking tours that showcase the Ocean State’s rich – and evolving – food scene. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan}

#HeyRhodyPhotos

Hovering somewhere between awe and altitude 🌊

Photo by @k___elizabeth

^{Use #HeyRhodyPhotos to share your Rhody views, and it might be featured here!}