33 Fun Things to Do in Rhode Island this September

From the Pawtucket Arts Festival to the Newport Mansions Wine and Food Festival, we've compiled all the activities to add to your September to-do list.

September 1, 2023

Edelinda Baptista,

Courtesy of Pawtucket Arts Festival/Facebook

FEATURED

Throughout September: Pawtucket Arts Festival

WHAT: Creativity and culture come to life in the streets during the twenty-fifth annual Pawtucket Arts Festival. Indulge in live entertainment, food, thought-provoking art and more from the creative community. Participate in the collection of events throughout the duration of the festival, like the Rhode Island Chinese Dragon Boat Races and Taiwan Day Festival, while admiring the culturally rich and talented offerings of the Blackstone River Valley. 8 a.m.–10 p.m. WHERE: Various locations in Pawtucket. MORE INFO: 728-0500, pawtucketartsfestival.org.

Courtesy of
Rhode Island Seafood Festival

9/16–17: Rhode Island Seafood Festival

WHAT: What is a Rhode Island festival without a day (or two) of celebrating all the amazing seafood our state has to offer? Get a mouthful from the best local seafood vendors and sip on local beer, wine and spirits. The thirteenth annual Rhode Island Seafood Festival invites the public to slurp down oysters, crunch on calamari and nosh on nibbles with a view of the cityscape. Sat. 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $10–$15; children twelve and younger free. WHERE: India Point Park, 201 India St., Providence. MORE INFO: riseafoodfest.com.

Courtesy of DiscoverNewport

9/22–24: Newport Mansions Wine and Food Festival

WHAT: Everyone is a wine and food connoisseur at this weekend event. Sample dishes created by local and regional chefs paired with wines from around the world and a breathtaking view of the ocean from the terrace. Dive into Sunday brunch, insightful seminars and delicious wine dinners during this year’s festival at Rosecliff mansion. At the end of each seminar, lounge on the grounds of Rosecliff in the VIP Micro Tent for additional wine and food tastings. Visit the website for times and ticket prices. WHERE: 548 Bellevue Ave., Newport. MORE INFO: 847-1000, newportmansions.org.

THEATER

Trinity Rep

SEPT. 7–15, 28–NOV. 12: When Abigail Williams begins working for John Proctor, the sixty-year-old farmer, their lives begin to unravel from churning butter and playing with poppets into something unforeseen. Directed by Kimberly Senior, the sequel play The Good John Proctor reassesses the Salem Witch Trials through the eyes of the four young girls — Abigail, Betty Parris, Mercy Lewis and Mary Warren — at its center. Run time is about ninety minutes with no intermission. Visit the website for times and ticket prices.

SEPT. 21–NOV. 10: In Becky Nurse of Salem directed by Curt Columbus, Becky Nurse, a modern descendant of an executed Salem “witch,” has been dealing with a lot of misfortune. She consults an eccentric local witch in hopes of changing this, which leads to shocking, disturbing and funny outcomes. Run time two hours with one intermission. 201 Washington St., Providence, 351-4242, trinityrep.com

Providence Performing Arts Center

SEPT. 9–16: See the hilarious Fanny Brice as she climbs her way to fame. Indulge in a timeless musical score with numbers such as “Don’t Rain on My Parade” and “I’m the Greatest Star” when Funny Girl begins its national tour at PPAC this fall. Visit the website for times. $38–$90. 220 Weybosset St., Providence, 421-2787, ppacri.org

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

PVD Flea Summer Markets

THROUGH SEPT. 24: Feel the fresh air while obsessing over vintage finds and locally sourced products from more than seventy-five vendors including indie makers, bakeshops, clothing vendors and more. Sun. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission. 275 South Water St., Providence, 484-7783, providenceflea.com

Umbrella Sky at Newport’s Brick Market

ONGOING: Enjoy a canopy of color created from more than five hundred umbrellas magically suspended over Newport’s Brick Market. Rain or shine, locals and tourists alike can admire this extraordinary art installation while browsing the market’s
collection of assorted shops, art shows, craft fairs and vendors. 8 a.m.–11 p.m. Free. Brick Market Place, Goddard Row, Newport, 741-1846, brickmarketnewport.com

Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park Carousel Village

THROUGH SEPT. 29: Choose menu items from more than fifteen local food trucks as well as beer and wine from Trinity Brewhouse during the seasonal Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park Carousel Village. Enjoy live music from various local artists while picnicking on the lawn. Fri. 5–8:30 p.m. Free admission. 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, rwpzoo.org/food-truck-friday

PVDFest

SEPT. 8–10: Celebrate the Creative Capital and its residents with Providence Mayor Brett Smiley at Innovation Park. Become acquainted with the community of artists that bring art and individuality to Providence and honor their talents in a weekend-long festival made to highlight diversity and culture. The weekend is complete with an array of live music and a featured art piece. 195 District Park, Providence, pvdfest.com

Misquamicut FallFest

SEPT. 15–17: The end of summer doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to the beach, too. FallFest at Misquamicut State Beach features amusement park rides, live music, food truck fare, a classic car show and more. Fri. 5–11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission $12, children seven and younger free. Misquamicut State Beach, Atlantic Avenue, Westerly, misquamicutfestival.org

Mac and Cheese Fest

SEPT. 16: Celebrate one of the nation’s favorite cheesy foods at the third annual Mac and Cheese Festival at LineSider Brewing Company. Meet top chefs and choose from food trucks and vendors serving up a variety of mac and cheese dishes, craft beers, wines and ciders while vibing out to the live band. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Adults $25, children two and younger free. 1485 South County Trl., Unit 201, East Greenwich, 398-7700, linesiderbrewing.com

Calamari Festival

SEPT. 16: Our state appetizer is calamari, so it’s basically a requirement for every Rhode Islander to hit up this festival. Listen to live music, wander the vendor marketplace, grab a drink and eat copious amounts of calamari made by local restaurants. Make sure to vote for your favorite version; the winner gets statewide bragging rights. Squid-averse visitors and kiddos, fear not: Food trucks will also be in attendance with alternative eats. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Adults $20, children twelve and younger free. 35 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, ricalamarifest.com

Newport Oktoberfest

SEPT. 16: The Fort Adams Trust and Ragged Island Brewing Co. invite beer lovers to Newport’s second annual Oktoberfest. Bust out the lederhosen and enjoy authentic German beer and food while listening to live music. Tickets include entry and a complimentary stein. A designated driver ticket must be shown upon arrival. 2–5:30 p.m. $20–$65. Fort Adams State Park, 90 Fort Adams Dr., Newport, 841-0707, newportoktoberfest.com

Rhode Island Annual Heritage Festival

SEPT. 16: Parade on down to the WaterFire Arts Center to celebrate the state’s rich cultural heritage. This unique festival is a day of dancing, music and art from more than thirty different countries. Kids can get their faces painted and participate in arts and crafts activities. Food trucks will also be offering an array of traditional food and drink. Noon–5 p.m. Free. WaterFire Arts Center, 475 Valley St., Providence, 222-4133, rilatinoarts.org

Bristol PorchFest

SEPT. 17: During PorchFest, local communities in the East Bay get a taste of live music from various artists without the cost of the average music festival. Find the ten porches and twenty bands including Bay Swing and the Digg It Band playing on High Street between Walley and Byfield streets. Hear performances featuring several genres of music like Cajun, traditional Portuguese, folk, rock and more. 3–6 p.m. Free. High Street, Bristol, facebook.com/bristolporchfest

Exeter Fall Festival

SEPT. 23: Pumpkin painting, carnival games, face painting and artisan craft vendors are some of the many activities in store for the day, not to mention food provided by Joe’s Snack Shack. Rain or shine, attendance helps support the Exeter Public Library and funds go toward its programs and resources. 10 a.m. –3 p.m. Free admission. 160 Yawgoo Valley Rd., Exeter, 294-0294, yorkerhill.com/exeterfriends

TRIPS AND TOURS

Rhode Island Red Food Tours

ONGOING: Explore your favorite Rhody neighborhoods in the Creative Capital and the City by the Sea with food tours. Walking tours include food samplings plus alcohol pairings at six local restaurants. Reservations are required. Thurs.–Sun. at noon. $74–$94. Various locations in Providence and Newport, rhodeislandredfoodtours.com

Rail Explorers Tours

ONGOING: Check out the night sky with Rail Explorers in themed, pedal-powered tours from the Southern Circuit to Bayside Station. See website for tour times and ticket prices. 1 Alexander Rd., Portsmouth, 877-833-8588, railexplorers.net

Providence River Boat Company

ONGOING: Brave the dark waters of the Providence Marina during the Haunted Boat Tour, where passengers can learn more about the city’s deceased and restless souls while getting a view of historic architecture, moonlit bridges and cobblestone walkways. Reserve your spot online and dress according to the weather. Wed. and Sun. Visit the website for times. $27–$30. 101 Dyer St., Providence, 580-2628, providenceriverboat.com

Newport Foodies Stroll

ONGOING: Throughout the nearly two-mile walking food tour, rediscover Thames Street with the help of great meals. Wander the historic streets of the City by the Sea with tour guides Thomas and Susan Maxwell in between three-course meals and wine pairings at notable restaurants and pubs. Reserve your spot online. Wed.–Sat. 11:30 a.m. and noon. Adults $88, children twelve and younger $55. Meeting location in front of wave statue, 337 Thames St., Newport, 619-3019, newportfoodiesstroll.com

KID’S STUFF

Farm Kids at Gather Farm

THROUGH SEPT. 30: Relax and rest assured your little ones are happy and well-cared for at Farm Kids Saturday led by Farmer Dan. Kiddos ranging from ages five to eleven can unplug and return to nature while taking habitat walks and learning about the importance of farm life, while parents can attend one of the farm’s many wellness programs. 380 Greenville Ave., Johnston, 508-974-3778, gatherfarm.com

Audubon Raptor Weekend

SEPT. 9–10: Spot several stunning species of birds such as owls, falcons, eagles and hawks at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium for this year’s Raptor Weekend. Get a closer look at some birds of prey heading back to Audubon, with their hooked beaks, long sharp talons and highly developed sight and hearing. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $10–$60; children three and younger free. 1401 Hope St., Bristol, 949-5454, aasri.org/raptor-weekend

Studio Playground

SEPT. 9–OCT. 14: Feel empowered during a multi-week acting class with Studio Playground. Children between ages five and fourteen can explore the art of improvisation, participate in acting games and expand their storytelling skills while building confidence and bonding with other theater mates. Visit the website for class options and times. Sat. $225–$300. Rhode Island School for the Deaf, 1 Corliss Park, Providence, studioplayground.org

MUSIC

Rhythm and Roots

SEPT. 1–3: In front of the big stage and on the 4,400-square-foot wooden floor, dance to live music performances by Dumpstaphunk, the Robert Cray Band and plenty more. Quench your thirst with craft beers on tap and snack on stuffed pockets, Korean chili bowls, vegetarian specials, crepes and homemade ice cream. For the full experience, stay overnight at the campgrounds to hear musicians play into the night. $59–$269. Ninigret Park, Charlestown, rhythmandroots.com

SPORTS

Newport International Polo Series

THROUGH SEPT. 30: Watch action-packed events every Saturday during the thirty-second season of the Newport Polo Series, including USA vs. England and the Newport Cup. Enjoy fan prizes, special weekly features, concessions and more. Sat. 4 p.m. $20–$125, children fifteen and younger free (lawn seating). 250 Linden Ln., Portsmouth, 846-0200, nptpolo.com

BENEFITS

Fall for Lucy’s Hearth

SEPT. 14: Bring your support to one of the largest fundraisers for homeless shelters in Rhode Island. Lucy’s Hearth has been helping families for decades and, with this cocktail hour-style event, others can as well. Join the Lucy’s Hearth organization at the Wyndham Newport Hotel for speeches, a silent auction and more. Funds raised help support children and families in local communities who are experiencing homelessness. 6–9 p.m. $135–$250. Wyndham Newport Hotel, 240 Aquidneck Ave., Middletown, 847-2021, lucyshearth.org/fall

Harvest Moon Gala

SEPT. 30: Before checking out the exhibit of historic photos and scenes of years past, enjoy the flowing drinks and entertainment by Paper Moon Jazz Band at the ninth annual Harvest Moon Gala: Celebrating Historic Touisset Point. Not to mention the appetizer stations by Prica Farina, hors d’oeuvres by chef Eli Dunn, desserts and more. Funds raised support the community with Warren Heritage Grants. Visit the website for event time. $75. Touisset Point Community Club, 10 Touisset Rd., Warren, 369-2582, warrenheritagefoundationri.org

MUSEUMS

RISD Museum

ONGOING: Plan your in-person visit in advance online and check out exhibitions on view including “Eating in Edo,” “Passive Pollination” and “The Performative Self-Portrait.” Tues., Wed., Sat., Sun. 10 a.m. –5 p.m.; Thurs. and Fri. noon–7 p.m. Adults $17, seniors $12, youth eighteen and younger free. Free admission Thurs. and Fri. after 5 p.m. and all-day Sun. 20 North Main St., Providence, 454-6500, risdmuseum.org

Newport Art Museum

ONGOING: View exquisite and thought-provoking works within exhibits such as “Dress Code,” and “Ana Flores: Shaman Ladders and Other Stories.” Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. noon–5 p.m. Adults $15, seniors $10, college students and military $8, museum members and children seventeen and younger free. 76 Bellevue Ave., Newport, 848-8200, newportartmuseum.org

United Theatre

THROUGH SEPT. 17: View “Feminine Wares: The Art of Barbara Shermund,” an exhibit which features twenty-six original works from Shermund’s lifetime (1899-1978). The artwork presents the lifestyle of American women from the ’20s–’40s through honest and amusing cartoons. Topics like women in the workplace, women’s rights, maternity, body image, marriage, aging and homosexuality can be found throughout the exhibit. Gallery hours are Wed.–Sun. noon–9 p.m., Mon.–Tues. 4–9 p.m.

SEPT. 29 AND OCT. 1: Salt Marsh Opera presents Verdi’s Falstaff, the Italian comic opera based on Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor. Fri. 7 p.m.; Sun. 3 p.m. $40–$60. United Theatre, 5 Canal St., Westerly, 388-8208, unitedtheatre.org

ETCETERA

WaterFire Providence

ONGOING: As the sun sets on the Creative Capital this summer, feel the warmth of the partial and full lightings, which will feature several lit-up braziers at Waterplace Park and traveling all the way down to South Main Street Park. Visit the website for times. Free. Memorial Boulevard, Providence, 273-1155, waterfire.org

Newport Boat Show

SEPT. 14–17: Test out your nautical knowledge while walking the docks and checking out several new sailboats and powerboats at one of the largest boat shows in the country, spanning more than thirteen acres of historic downtown Newport. Thurs.–Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $31–$40; children twelve and younger free. Newport Yachting Center Marina, 4 Commercial Wharf, Newport, 846-1115, newportboatshow.com

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular

SEPT. 28–OCT. 31: Get into the Halloween spirit early this season by admiring the iconic symbol of autumn. As the late afternoon turns into a dark evening, behold the sight of thousands of creatively carved pumpkins at the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. 6–10:30 p.m., last admission 10 p.m. Visit the website for admission prices. Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, 785-3510, rwpzoo.org