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- The Dish on 2026 Dining š½ļø
The Dish on 2026 Dining š½ļø
Dig into 2026 dining trends, a PVD-made audio drama, our latest Hey Rhody Weekly, + more!
Thereās something about sunshine and zero wind chill that makes a Rhode Island winter day feel suspiciously like spring ā and yes, I know itās still January, but let me dream for a minute. If that hint of warmth has you feeling a little lighter, youāre in good company. Todayās newsletter leans into that energy with ideas worth stepping outside for, conversation starters that go beyond the weather, and just enough inspiration to make the most of a season thatās not quite done with us yet. Scroll on, grab a plan or two, and let winter pretend itās spring (at least for the day).
Dining Trends to Watch in 2026
From happy hour comebacks to group tables making a return, OpenTableās 2026 Dining Trends Report shows Americans are dining out with more intention, flexibility, and focus on value. January is shaping up as a prime month for social meals, spontaneous reservations, and experiences that feel worth savoring. Read more online.
A Rhode Island Vampire Story With a Softer Bite
Providence-based audio drama maker Hugo Pierre Martin is reimagining vampire lore through a low-fantasy series that swaps shock value for empathy, using supernatural storytelling to explore trauma recovery, neurodivergence, and healing. Rooted in Rhode Islandās creative community and supported by local collaborators, the project proves that even vampires can offer comfort, connection, and a surprisingly gentle place to land. Read more online.
The Return of the Oversized Bag and Where to Shop It in Rhode Island
The ā90s-inspired oversized bag is making a confident return, favoring function, comfort, and lived-in style over tiny, decorative accessories. From slouchy shoulder bags to roomy totes, Rhode Island boutiques are stocked with practical, easy-to-style options that prove you do not need a luxury label to carry the trend well. Read more online.
Rhody Recs is your weekly roundup of whatās happening across the state, a built-in excuse to rally the crew early instead of scrambling for plans at the last minute. Because letās be real, lifeās too short to leave the fun for last minute.
Date | Event |
|---|---|
Friday 1/9 | Rhode Islandās Finest Real Ale Festival RIFRAF returns on Friday and Saturday to Pawtucket with a cask-only celebration at The Guild Brewing Company, pouring real ales from more than 20 Rhode Island and Massachusetts breweries during evening and afternoon sessions. Learn more online āø» Long Live Turns 10: Throwback Birthday Party Long Live Beerworks celebrates a decade of brews and memories in Providence with an all-day throwback bash from 1-10pm, featuring an anniversary beer release, nostalgic pours, live hangs, and a dance party to close out the night. Learn more online āø» Strange Pains Single Release Party Strange Pains celebrates a new single at FĆŖte Music Hall Lounge in Providence, bringing a night of immersive, psych-tinged indie rock to the room from 7-11pm. Learn more online āø» Rhode Island Cocktail Club Event Sip and socialize upstairs at SĆZN by Plant City in Providence starting at 7 pm, with thoughtfully crafted cocktails, seasonal bites, and an elevated-but-easygoing vibe. Learn more online āø» Owls & Ales Event Learn about Rhode Islandās resident owls while enjoying a locally brewed beer at the Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium in Bristol, with live ambassador owls and a guided listen-for-the-wild experience from 6:30ā7:30pm. Learn more online āø» Providence Bruins ā¢ Retro Weekend Throw it back at Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence at 7:05pm as the Providence Bruins hit the ice in fan-favorite retro jerseys, complete with 90s and 00s music, themed fan cams, and plenty of nostalgic fun. Learn more online āø» Frankie & Johnny in the Clair de Lune The Gamm Theatre brings Terence McNallyās intimate two-hander to life from 7ā10pm, offering a tender, funny, and quietly powerful look at vulnerability, connection, and the hope that love can still surprise us. Learn more online āø» G-Club Fridays Friday nights get a glow-up at Providence G Pub from 9pmā2am, where DJs, arcade games, late-night bites, and no-cover dancing turn Orange Street into an easy weekly go-to. Learn more online |
Saturday 1/10 | United We Laugh Comedy fans can trade the weekās stress for punchlines at The United Theatre in Westerly, where a stacked stand-up lineup led by headliner Tyler Hittner brings the laughs starting at 7pm. Learn more online āø» The 21st Annual 24-Hour Play Festival Creativity takes center stage in Wakefield as the Contemporary Theatre Company presents five brand-new short plays written, rehearsed, and performed in just 24 hours, inviting audiences to experience the thrill from 8-10:30pm. Learn more online āø» The Alcove Grand Opening The Alcove officially opens its doors in Providence with a celebratory open from 12-4pm, featuring a ribbon cutting, live music by the Raging Grannies of Rhode Island, guided gallery tours, and cozy community-forward activities throughout the space. Learn more online āø» Featured Artist Kickoff at Riffraff Celebrate featured artist Aaron North with an evening of paintings, cocktails, and good company at Riffraff Bookstore and Bar in Providence from 6ā8pm. Learn more online āø» DarkStar Collectibles Show Cards, collectibles, and a little friendly nostalgia take over the Trinity Brotherhood Club in East Providence from 10amā3:30pm for a family-friendly show packed with PokĆ©mon, sports cards, rare finds, and wallet-friendly deals. Learn more online |
Sunday 1/11 | Sensory-Friendly Hours at Audubon The Audubon Society of Rhode Island Nature Center and Aquarium in Bristol offers quieter, low-sensory visiting hours with reduced crowds, softer lighting, and no screens, welcoming guests on Sundays from 9:30am-12:30pm. Learn more online āø» Direct From Sweden: The Music of ABBA This high-energy tribute brings ABBAās greatest hits to The Greenwich Odeum in East Greenwich from 7-10pm, delivering a full-throttle, sing-along-worthy celebration complete with live band, iconic costumes, and nonstop dance-floor nostalgia. Learn more online āø» 90ās Drag Brunch Scrunchies, throwback jams, and fierce performances take over Medici Lounge from 11amā2pm for a totally nostalgic 90s Drag Brunch packed with bold looks, big energy, and brunch favorites served with a side of sparkle. Learn more online āø» Kris Hansen Live Singer-songwriter and audio engineer Kris Hansen, best known for his project Viking Jesus, takes the stage at Archive Book + Snackery in Warren at 7pm for a free, intimate night of live music rooted in local sound and storytelling. Learn more online āø» Learn to Curl Try your hand at the Olympic sport of curling during a beginner-friendly Learn to Curl session at Smithfield Municipal Ice Rink from 1:45ā3:45pm, with instructors from Ocean State Curling Club guiding you every slide of the way. Learn more online āø» Vision Board Party 2026 Set intentions and sip something cozy during a high-vibe Vision Board Party at HER Collaborative in Coventry from 9:30amā12pm, where guided meditation, creative goal-setting, and community energy help turn 2026 dreams into something tangible.Learn more online |
Monday 1/12 | Snowy Swirl Resin Tray Painting Class Paint and Vino invites creatives to Pawtucket for a hands-on resin art class from 7-9:30pm, pairing step-by-step instruction with a relaxed studio vibe and a complimentary beverage to sip while you swirl. Learn more online āø» Trivia with Comedian Host Brad Pierce Providence puts its thinking caps on at The Patio on Broadway, where comedian Brad Pierce hosts free, fast-paced trivia every Monday from 7:30-9:30pm, serving up laughs, clever questions, and prizes for the sharpest teams. Learn more online āø» Bingo Mondays at Newport Craft Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co. keeps Monday nights lively in Newport with free bingo from 6-8pm, pairing prizes and discounts with $4 lagers and $1 wings for an easygoing start to the 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: Healthy-ish Eats and a New Protective Pooch in Pawtucket
This week on Hey Rhody Weekly, weāre talking healthy-ish restaurant orders that make January feel doable, spotlighting balanced, satisfying picks from local Blackstone Valley favorites. Plus, meet Pawtucketās newest K-9 officer, Bruce, an internationally trained good boy already proving heās an MVP for community safety.
Rhody Pets of the Month Ready for Their Forever Homes
From an adventure-loving pup to a playful kitten and a pint-sized snuggle bug, Januaryās Rhody Pets of the Month are proof that your next best friend might just be waiting at a local shelter. Meet Scallywag, Peach, and Granola, three adoptable cuties ready to trade shelter life for couches, cuddles, and forever homes. Read more online.
ā Looking for a fun, confidence-boosting way to get kids on the move this year? Registration is now open for the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Councilās 2026 Bike Camp season, including Spring Girls Bike Camp and Red Shed Bike Camp, with scholarships available. New Friday afternoon graduation rides will bring families and neighbors together to celebrate each group of campers.
ā Got art youāve been itching to put on a gallery wall? The Providence Art Club is calling on Rhode Island college artists to submit work for its 2026 College Biennial, open to undergrads, grad students, and certificate or post-bacc artists across all media. With more than $1,000 in prizes on the line and a future solo exhibition up for grabs, this free-to-apply opportunity is a big moment for emerging creatives ready to step into the spotlight.
ā What does a 102-year-old World War II veteran have in common with some of Rhode Islandās most influential civic and education leaders? The answer unfolds in Through Her Eyes: The Evolution of Providence Alumnae, a new documentary marking the 55-year legacy of the Providence Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., premiering Saturday, January 17, at the Providence Public Library. Through interviews, archival footage, and firsthand stories, the film highlights generations of women whose leadership and service have shaped the community and continue to make an impact.
ā Looking for a winter adventure that gets you out on the water without sacrificing your warm layers? Save The Bayās Seal Tours in Newport offer a front-row seat to harbor seals lounging at Citing Rock, paired with local history, scenic views, and the option to level up with a lighthouse stop on Rose Island. Running through early spring, these cozy, educational boat rides prove that Rhode Islandās wildlife scene doesnāt hibernate.