Memorial Day Fun Starts Here 😄

A soggy start to Memorial Day weekend? Definitely not on the summer mood board. But if we can’t change the weather, we can still get into a sunshine state of mind—starting with today’s newsletter. From must-do events to Real Housewives fun, we’ve got your weekend covered (raincoat optional).

Weekend Must-Do’s: Celebrate Spring with Parades, Parties, and Plenty of Laughs

Rhode Island kicks off May with a medley of weekend magic—from Broadway razzle-dazzle at Chicago in PPAC to zen bird walks and kitten cuddles. Whether you’re into musicals, mindfulness, or meows, there’s a vibe-check event waiting for you. Read the full list online at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Caitlyn Bailey, photo courtesy of Operation Stand Down}

Artist Turns Coastal Inspiration Into a Thriving Creative Business

Rhode Island-based artist Veronique Godbout built Atelier Vero as both a canvas for her whimsical, seaside-inspired art and a lifeline for fellow creatives navigating wholesale. With products ranging from prints to business toolkits, she’s proving that color, community, and commerce can coexist beautifully. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Veronique Godbout}

^{Presented by Save the Bay}

Discover Marine Life at Newport’s Save The Bay Aquarium

“When you visit Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium, you embark on a journey through the fascinating and diverse habitats of Narragansett Bay,” begins Juan Espinoza, director of communications and marketing. The 7,500-square-foot destination not only houses critters from local ecosystems but also engages visitors with issues facing the health of the Bay through programs and activities for families, school groups, and anyone interested in marine conservation.

“Each habitat is home to a unique group of animals and plants that have evolved to survive perfectly under a specific set of conditions, and each habitat faces challenges that we can all help address,” Espinoza says, explaining that the Aquarium “functions alongside our advocacy and habitat restoration efforts to work toward our vision of a fishable, swimmable Narragansett Bay accessible to all.”

Just steps away from downtown Newport’s main transportation hub and bus station, the Aquarium includes an expanded and revitalized Kids’ Zone with hands-on activities, a screen broadcasting underwater views of local marine life, biological artifacts, and more interactive features. Three touch tanks throughout the Aquarium allow guests of all ages to get close to local species, prompting curiosity and questions – which a team of knowledgeable staff and volunteers can answer, sharing stories and insights about the delicate ecosystem.

“By connecting people to the Bay’s underwater wonders, the Aquarium plays a crucial role in inspiring future advocates and supporting Save The Bay’s overarching mission to protect Narragansett Bay for future generations.”

Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium is open daily from 10am-4pm with expanded summer hours starting May 26 from 9am-4pm. General admission is $15, with discounts for seniors and members, and free for children under two and military personnel. No admission is required to enjoy the gift shop. Birthday parties and private rentals at the Aquarium will be available from September 2025 through June 2026. Visit SaveBay.org/aquarium for more information.

Check out our latest on Youtube: Talking Housewives, Rhody-Style

Nick, Jenna, and Elyse break down what we might expect from the upcoming Real Housewives of Rhode Island. From local spots they hope make the cut to who’s most likely to throw the first wine glass, it’s all up for debate.

^{Presented by Moonshine Alley}

Southern Flavor Meets Rhody Charm at Moonshine Alley

Just off downtown, Moonshine Alley blends bold Southern eats, live music, and good vibes. With new summer bites and weekend brunch, it's the city’s go-to for comfort food and cocktails. Read more online at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Moonshine Alley}

Newport Festivals Foundation Rolls Out Charity License Plates to Fund Free Music Lessons

Music fans can now show their love for jazz and folk while supporting a good cause. Proceeds from the new Newport Festivals license plate will help fund free music lessons for local students through the foundation’s education program.. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Ken Abrams, photo courtesy of Newport Festival Foundation}