Sunny Days & Berry Nights 🍓

Discover top things to do this weekend, sun protection know-how from an expert, a sweet berry recipe, + more!

July 17, 2025

In partnership with

They say time flies when you’re having fun – and judging by how fast summer’s slipping by, we’re practically breaking the sound barrier. But don’t panic just yet! Today’s newsletter is here to help you hit pause and savor the season. From can’t-miss weekend events to a berry delicious Rhody recipe (yes, we went there) and plenty of local stories to keep you in the summer spirit, this issue is your reminder to slow down and soak it all in.

Weekend Must-Do’s: July 17-20

Another gorgeous July weekend is packed with choices, from a dance festival featuring four companies to a craft beer event benefiting homeless dogs. Downtown Providence will also be buzzing with family-friendly fun Read the full list online.

• By Caitlyn Bailey and Ken Abrams, photo courtesy of Providence Warwick CVB

Sun-Safe Secrets from Rhody Dermatologist Dr. Alyssa Findley

Dermatologist Dr. Alyssa Findley wants you to think of sun protection as a daily habit, not just a beach-day ritual. From SPF moisturizers and wide-brimmed hats to UPF clothing and early skin checks, her advice makes it easy to stay safe, stylish, and sun-smart all summer long. Read more online.

• By Elyse Major, photo courtesy of Alyssa Findley

Bake Up a Berry Buckle That Wows

Providence-based cookbook author Polina Chesnakova revamps a nostalgic family favorite with her Summer Berry Buckle. Bursting with fresh berries and crowned with a crackly sugar “snow,” this tender, picnic-perfect cake is as easy to bake as it is to devour. Read more online.

• By Polina Chesnakova, photo by Charity Burggraaf courtesy of Sasquatch Books

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Check Out Our Latest on Youtube: Hey Rhody Visits Block Island!

The Hey Rhody team takes you along on a dreamy Block Island getaway, starting with a scenic ferry ride. From local bites to a breezy bike tour, it’s the ideal way to soak in Rhode Island’s coastal charm in just one day.

⭐ Looking for a magical way to spark your child’s imagination this summer? On Friday, July 25, Kinney Azalea Gardens hosts its Kids at Kinney: Nature Story & Hike series with a special fairy house-making adventure. Children will enjoy a nature-themed story, a scenic hike, and a whimsical craft, making it the perfect morning to connect with nature and creativity.

⭐ Looking for the ultimate summer celebration of culture and community? On Sunday, July 20, the Puerto Rican Bay Fest returns to India Point Park in Providence from 12-6pm, showcasing the vibrant spirit of Puerto Rico with live music, authentic food, refreshing drinks, and family-friendly fun.

 ⭐ Looking for a night of big laughs and even better drinks? On Friday, August 1, Newport Vineyards hosts the Barrel of Laughs Comedy Show, featuring regional comedians handpicked by host Jeremy Furtado. Doors open at 7pm for drinks, mystery flights, and dinner before the 8pm show. Purchase tickets online.

Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with Our Local Favorites

If there’s one thing Hey Rhody loves, it’s a sweet treat – and nothing says summer quite like ice cream. Celebrate National Ice Cream Day on the third Sunday in July with a few of our favorite stories from the archives, featuring test batch clubs, fruity scoops, local pints, and behind-the-scenes interviews with local favorites like Gigi’s Scoops, Big Feeling, and Tricycle Ice Cream. Disclosure: These articles are from our archives. Please check each business’s website for the most up-to-date information and offerings.

• Photo by Charity Burggraaf courtesy of Big Feeling