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Love Is in the (Salty) Air 😉
Find the ultimate romantic retreat right here in Rhody, a new winter lineup in Providence delivering serious cozy vibes, rock royalty rolls into East Greenwich, + more!
If there’s one true sign that winter is finally loosening its icy grip, it’s the crack of a bat at spring training – and it all kicks off this week on February 20th. Sure, Rhody’s forecast might still call for scarves and that sideways wind we know too well, but think of this as your Opening Day spark of energy. Today’s newsletter is brimming with the kind of joy that feels like a ballplayer stepping onto fresh-cut grass for the first time all season. We’ve got mouthwatering food news, local happenings you won’t want to miss, and more than a few reasons to shake off that winter slump and break into a full-on victory dance.
Block Island Named America’s Most Romantic Escape
A new national study has crowned Block Island the most romantic town in the country, proving its charm goes far beyond postcard views. With standout scores in guest satisfaction, couple-friendly experiences, and easy accessibility, the beloved seaside destination edged out even New York City and Maui for the top spot. Read more online.
Mill’s Tavern Brings Cozy Winter Comfort to College Hill
Mill’s Tavern is leaning into the season with a hearty new menu from Executive Chef Cara Mourning that pairs rich classics with thoughtful vegan additions. From indulgent entrées to seasonal starters, the updated offerings make the historic Pilgrim Mills Building feel even more inviting this winter. Read more online.
Newport Jazz Welcomes Grammy-Winning Nate Smith as New Artistic Director
The Newport Jazz Festival is turning the page with Grammy-winning drummer Nate Smith stepping in as its new Artistic Director ahead of this summer’s return to Fort Adams. Blending deep respect for jazz tradition with a forward-looking edge, Smith’s leadership signals a fresh era for the iconic festival as it enters its 72nd season. 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 |
|---|---|
Wednesday 2/18 | Kids Pizza Class Grab your mini pizza-makers and head to Newport for a flour-dusted morning of crafts, dancing, and hands-on pie slinging at Surf Club’s Kid’s Pizza Class kicking off at 11am. Learn more online ⸻ Galentine’s Night Out at Track 15 Round up your ride-or-dies and head to Providence for a glam Galentine’s bash at Track 15 from 4–6pm, where cocktails (and mocktails), local bites, permanent bracelets, and a flower bar set the scene for a flirty, friendship-fueled soirée. Learn more online ⸻ Sakonnet Vineyard Wine Dinner at The Patio on Broadway The Sakonnet Vineyard Wine Dinner begins at 6pm in Providence at The Patio on Broadway, where a curated tasting menu will be paired with award-winning wines, guided by a special appearance from a guest sommelier and celebrating 50 years of estate-grown winemaking. Learn more online |
Thursday 2/19 | Cheese & Cocktail Pairing: Rhodium x Edgewood Cheese Shop Head to Pawtucket for a flavor-forward night at Rhodium Room at 6pm, where three expertly paired cheeses meet three crafty cocktails, plus 20% off bottles, turning your average weeknight into a gouda time. Learn more online ⸻ Book Swap & Bookmark Making at Now or Never Book Swap & Bookmark Making at Now or Never in Providence kicks off at 6pm for two cozy hours of watercolor, collage, and page-turner trading, where you can craft your own bookmark, swap up to four “new-to-you” reads, and mingle with fellow lit lovers. Learn more online ⸻ Sam Morril at the Comedy Connection Stand-up heavyweight Sam Morril takes the stage in East Providence at 9:30pm at the Comedy Connection, bringing his razor-sharp, New York-honed wit—fresh off his latest Amazon Prime special You’ve Changed and appearances on major late-night shows. Learn more online ⸻ New Thursday Tapas Night at Weekapaug Inn Thursday Tapas Night debuts from 5–10pm in Westerly at Weekapaug Inn, serving Spanish-inspired small plates – from Jamón Ibérico-topped huevos rotos to chargrilled octopus – in a relaxed, shareable coastal setting. Learn more online |
Friday 2/20 | Sketch Rhode Island Show Catch Sketch Rhode Island in Providence next week with back-to-back shows at 6:30pm and 8:30pm, where fearless local talent takes big comedic swings and keeps the Ocean State laughing one bold, brilliantly awkward sketch at a time. Learn more online ⸻ Bonsai Bar Workshop at Tilted Barn Brewery Tiny trees meet craft brews in Exeter as the Bonsai Bar Workshop begins at 6pm at Tilted Barn Brewery, inviting guests to sip farm-fresh ales while learning the fundamentals of potting, pruning, and designing their own beginner-friendly bonsai. Learn more online ⸻ Knickerbocker All Stars Live roots music takes center stage in Westerly as the Knickerbocker All Stars perform at 7pm at The United Theatre, delivering a high-energy mix of blues, jazz, jump blues, and soul in a tribute to the legendary sounds that shaped the historic Knickerbocker Cafe. Learn more online |
Saturday 2/21 | LitArts RI Writers' Block Party Head to Providence for Writers’ Block Party at LitArts RI from 9:30am-4:30pm, a full-day creative sprint packed with micro workshops, generative prompts, brown bag bonding, and a closing mixer designed to bulldoze your writer’s block and get the words flowing again. Learn more online ⸻ RI VegFest Plant-based paradise is popping up in Providence as RI VegFest takes over the WaterFire Arts Center from 12–5pm, bringing 85+ vegan vendors, crave-worthy eats, spirited sips, and a feel-good community vibe to Rhode Island’s original fully vegan festival. Learn more online ⸻ Newport WienerFest Things are heating up in Newport as Newport WienerFest takes over Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co. at 12pm for an afternoon of loaded hot wieners, drink specials, free samples, and a 1:30pm eating competition that separates the casual snackers from the condiment-coated champions. Learn more online ⸻ Barrel of Laughs Comedy Show An evening of stand-up and sips unfolds in Middletown as the Barrel of Laughs Comedy Show kicks off at 8pm at Newport Vineyards & Winery, where host Jeremy Furtado introduces a lineup of regional comedians for a night of punchlines best paired with local wine, craft beer, and a pre-show dinner reservation. Learn more online |
Sunday 2/22 | Pancakes & Play With Spider-Man & Ghost Spider Pancakes & Play with Spider-Man & Ghost Spider swings into East Providence from 10am-12pm for a web-slinging morning of mini pancakes, open play at FUNdamentals, and meet-and-greet photo ops that’ll have your tiny Spidey fans flipping with excitement. Learn more online ⸻ Maple Tapping with the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council Winter’s quiet woods come to life in Providence as Maple Tapping with the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council begins at 12pm along the Greenway, inviting families to learn how to tap local maple trees and explore the cultural roots of sugaring traditions. Learn more online ⸻ Hot Chocolate with Roger Williams History warms up in Mapleville as Hot Chocolate with Roger Williams begins at 2pm at Mapleville Farm, where actor John McNiff brings the state’s founder to life in an interactive portrayal followed by a Q&A and light refreshments. Learn more online ⸻ Lúnasa Irish supergroup Lúnasa brings its high-energy blend of traditional reels and contemporary arrangements to Cumberland at 3pm and 7pm at Blackstone River Theatre, delivering the award-winning sound that has made the band a global force in Celtic music. Learn more online |
Our Rhody Rec list is refreshed with every newsletter, so be sure to check back for the latest events!
In partnership with South County Health
Rhody Health: Lung Cancer Isn’t Just for Smokers
Lung cancer is no longer just a smoker’s disease, with environmental factors like radon quietly raising risks across Rhode Island homes. South County Health experts urge awareness and testing, noting that early detection can make all the difference. Read more online.
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⭐ Ready to cast your vote for Rhode Island’s biggest musical moments of the year? The Motif RI Music Awards return to The Met on March 30, with doors opening at 6pm and the celebration kicking off at 6:30pm. Voting is officially open now, giving fans the chance to spotlight the local artists and sounds that keep the Ocean State’s music scene thriving.
⭐ What would you do if a second chance came with a $7,000 price tag? In Cumberland, The Hotel for Homeless Dogs is rallying the community around Luna, a rescue pup who recently underwent life-saving surgery to remove bilateral mammary tumors and is now on the road to recovery. Supporters can donate or share her story to help cover the cost of her care and give this brave girl the future she deserves
⭐Looking for a family-friendly dining win during February break? Wickford on the Water is offering kids eat free from February 16 through February 19, making it easier for families to enjoy a cozy meal out while school is out. The dine-in offer includes one free kids meal per adult entrée for children 12 and under.
⭐Think your pet has what it takes to be calendar-famous? From now until March 2, the Potter League for Animals’ 10th Annual P.S. I Love You Pet Photo Contest invites you to show off your four-legged (or feathered) valentine while supporting life-saving programs across the community. Enter a favorite photo, rally the votes, and your beloved sidekick could land a spot in the 2027 pet calendar.
Rock Legacy Lives On with Sons of Cream in East Greenwich
The next generation of rock royalty brings Cream’s iconic sound into a new era when Sons of Cream take the stage at the Greenwich Odeum on February 22. Featuring the sons and family of the original band members, the group blends timeless classics with fresh energy for a show that honors the past while keeping the spirit of rock very much alive. Read more online.
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A snowy path to salty air and sunshine ☀️
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