33 Fun Things to Do in Rhode Island This January
From a night of laughter with Sarah Silverman to Monster Jam at the AMP, we've compiled all the local activities that should be on your to do list this month.
FEATURED
Theater: Girls & Boys
JAN. 2–19
Two strangers meet at an airport, fall in love and have the perfect marriage until they discover that not every love story ends happily ever after in this gripping, one-woman show in its New England premiere. Visit website for times. $53–$73. The Gamm Theatre, 1245 Jefferson Blvd., Warwick, gammtheatre.org
Music: Wakefield Idol
JAN. 9–MAR. 27
Rule the stage and put your vocal cords to the test during Wakefield Idol, Contemporary Theater Company’s singing competition with a $1,000 grand prize. Or join the audience to support the talented performers. Thursdays at 7 p.m. $35. 327 Main St., Wakefield, 218-0282, contemporarytheatercompany.com
Nostalgia: “1964 …The Tribute”
JAN. 10–11
Step back in time and experience a true Beatles concert with “1964 … The Tribute,” hailed by fans as one of the most authentic Beatles tribute bands. Listen to fan-favorite classics from the pre-Sgt. Pepper era and relive the “Beatlemania” days during this one-of-a-kind experience. 8 p.m. $26–$36. Stadium Theatre, 28 Monument Sq., Woonsocket, stadiumtheatre.com
Art: “Fakes and Forgeries” Exhibit
JAN. 18–MAR. 2
This annual exhibit at Spring Bull Gallery showcases local artists who have reproduced or creatively interpreted works by the Old and New Masters. You can admire their work at the “Fakes and Forgeries” exhibit and see their renderings of some of the classics. Daily, noon–4 p.m.; closed Tuesdays. Free admission. 55 Bellevue Ave., Newport, springbullgallery.com
Comedy: “Sarah Silverman: Postmortem”
JAN. 23
Emmy Award-winning comedian Sarah Silverman enters the Providence stage with her latest comedy tour, “Postmortem.” Known for her fearless, bold humor, Silverman promises an unforgettable night filled with laughter and thought-provoking commentary. 7:30 p.m. $42.50–$286.50. The Vets, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Providence, thevetsri.com
Thrills: Monster Jam
JAN. 31–FEB. 2
Feel the roar of engines and action at this year’s Monster Jam. Experience the thrill as trucks like Grave Digger and Megalodon compete against each other. This adrenaline-driven event is perfect for all ages. Fri. 7 p.m.; Sat. 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sun. 1 p.m. $15–$100. Amica Mutual Pavilion, 1 La Salle Sq., Providence, monsterjam.com
Family Fun: Ice Bumper Cars
ONGOING
Enjoy a thrilling adventure as you slide, spin and bump into friends and family on the ice. Each session includes fifteen minutes of bumper car time, with up to eight cars on the ice per session. Visit website for dates and prices.
2 Kennedy Plaza, Providence, theprovidencerink.com
Comedy: Bring Your Own Improv
ONGOING
Looking to get out of your comfort zone? Try bringing your own improv to the Warwick Center for the Arts. This interactive show welcomes all types of audience participation. Family-friendly show Fridays at 8 p.m.; “Caffeinated Insomniacs” show Fridays at 10 p.m. $10–$15. Warwick Center for the Arts, 3259 Post Rd., Warwick, bringyourownimprov.com
THEATER
Justin Willman: Illusionati Tour at the Vets
JAN. 19: If you still don’t believe in magic, let Justin Willman change your mind for one evening filled with magic and mind-control, or at least have a laugh in a show that will melt your brain while making you laugh until there is no tomorrow. 7 p.m. Visit website for tickets. The Vets, 1 Ave. of the Arts, Providence, 421-2787, thevetsri.com
Trinity Rep
JAN. 23–FEB. 23: Someone Will Remember Us uncovers the lasting impacts of war through real-life testimonies of U.S. veterans, Iraqi civilians, Gold Star families, and refugees living in Rhode Island. Almost twenty years later, after Trinity Rep’s rendition of Boots on the Ground, this heartfelt new production explores the personal and communal tolls of war while highlighting resilience and connection in the face of adversity. Visit website for times and tickets. Trinity Rep, 201 Washington St., Providence, trinityrep.com
The Park Theatre
ONGOING: The Park Theatre is offering a variety of shows this month. On Jan. 11, The Gilded Age Orchestra of Newport introduces “To Rhode Island, with Love.” On Jan. 17, Richard Young and Sam Strange present you with “Young & Strange,” a magnificent double act of comedy illusion. On Jan. 31, enjoy a night full of laughter with the “Wise Guys of Comedy,” introducing Ace Aceto, Frank Santorelli, and Brad Mastrangelo. Visit website for times and ticket prices. Historic Park Theatre and Event Center, 848 Park Ave., Cranston, 955-7275, theparkri.com
FAIRS AND FESTIVALS
Funda Fest 27
JAN. 17–26: Introduced by the Rhode Island Black Storytellers, Funda Fest is a place to learn about African culture and people from around the world. During this special week, RIBS shares oral traditions with communities across the state. This is an educational and highly engaging event that is suitable for all ages. It celebrates and embraces African culture while keeping it fun. Visit website for dates, times, and locations. $60 early bird festival pass, $20 single events, $15 student or senior, $10 child 12 and under. All across Rhode Island. fundafest.org
Tiverton Farmers Market
ONGOING: Browse a selection of vendors offering fresh, local produce, meats, seafood, baked goods and more at the Tiverton Farmers Market. Support local musicians, artists, food entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations as they gather to connect community members. Vegan and vegetarian options are available. Farmers market open every Sunday. 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Free. Tiverton Middle School Cafeteria, 10 Quintal Dr., Tiverton, 474-1064, tivertonfarmersmarket.com
TRIPS AND TOURS
Newport Mansions Self-Guided Tours
ONGOING: Explore Gilded Age mansions at your own pace to learn about the wealthy owners and their eagerness to be part of high society, their household staff and the mansions’ architectural design. Bring your phone and earbuds and download the free Newport Mansions mobile app in advance to participate. Visit website for times and tickets. Rosecliff, the Breakers, the Elms, Isaac Bell House, Marble House, Newport, newportmansions.org
WELLNESS
Wellness + Wine: Pilates w/ mend
JAN. 19: Find your core (and your cork!) as you participate in a Pilates class at Newport Vineyards hosted by mend. Savor the moment by sipping on some of the most refreshing wine Newport has to offer. 10 a.m.–Noon. $35.84. Newport Vineyards, 909 East Main Rd. (Rte 138), Middletown, newportvineyards.com
Still Together Mindfulness Meditation
ONGOING: Find your peace and wellbeing during meditation sessions, held for free in-person and online at the Warwick Center for the Arts. Reduce your stress, improve your health and strengthen your focus while engaging in guided meditation practice. In-person sessions are held on the first and third Monday of the month. 6:30–7:30 p.m. Virtual sessions are held every second, fourth and fifth Monday of the month. 6:30–7:30 p.m. Thurs. mornings 7:30–7:50 a.m. Free. Warwick Center for the Arts, 3259 Post Rd., Warwick, 737-0010, warwickcfa.org
Free Wednesday Nature Walks
ONGOING: Every Wednesday afternoon, join Norman Bird Sanctuary for a nature walk. Connect with the outdoors and breathe in the fresh air when you stroll among the wildlife at this nature preserve in Middletown. Wed. 3:30–4:15 p.m. Meet outside the Welcome Center. Free. Norman Bird Sanctuary, 583 Third Beach Rd., Middletown, 846-2577, normanbirdsanctuary.org
MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES
Wild Imagination: Art and Animals in the Gilded Age
THROUGH JAN: 12: During the Gilded Age, the relationship between humans and animals transformed as humans moved from farms to cities. Discover the intense period that shaped the role of animals in our contemporary world and the lasting changes in human-animal relations. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Visit website for tickets. Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Ave., Newport, newportmansions.org
RISD Museum
ONGOING: Plan your in-person visit in advance online and check out exhibitions on view including “Brighten Up! Contemporary Enamels” and “The Let Out,” which is on display until Jan. 26. Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Thurs. noon–8 p.m. Adults $20, seniors $15, students $10 with ID youth eighteen and younger free. Free admission Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Thurs. 5 p.m.– 8 p.m. 20 North Main St., Providence, 454-6500, risdmuseum.org
Newport Art Museum
ONGOING: View exquisite and thought-provoking works within exhibits such as “The Joy of Being” and “Andrea Spiridonakos: Without You (I’m Just An Empty Shell).” Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. noon–5 p.m. Adults $15; seniors $10; college students $8; military, museum members and children seventeen and younger free. 76 Bellevue Ave., Newport, 848-8200, newportartmuseum.org
ETCETERA
Holiday Lights Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo
THROUGH JAN. 4: Even though the holidays are over, this spectacular display of lights will stay open until Jan. 4 to keep the festivities alive. Feast your eyes on the millions of twinkling holiday lights that cover all forty acres of the zoo during the Holiday Lights Spectacular walk-through experience. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and admire the dazzling winter wonderland scene complete with colorful lights, sparkly snowmen, Santa’s reindeer and other holiday favorites, while you still can. 5–9:30 p.m. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, 785-3510, www.rwpzoo.org
Sparkle!
THROUGH JAN. 4: Keep the holiday spirit alive with “Sparkle!” at Blithewold. Venture through the bright gardens of the mansion as you go on a quest to collect scavenger hunt clues. Warm up around the cozy fires in the Enclosed Garden while listening to seasonal carols. Sip on RI Cruisin’ Cocktails and follow stunning paths to discover magical scenery. Make sure to add a s’mores kit to make the experience unforgettable and delicious! 5:30–7 p.m. Members, $8–$15. Non-Members, $8–$27. Blithewold, 101 Ferry Rd. (Rt. 114), Bristol, blithewold.org
Open Mic Comedy Thursdays
THROUGH JAN. 16: Let yourself enjoy a night of laughs with food and drinks at the Open Mic Comedy happening every Thursday at Jake & Johnny’s in Providence. If you are funny enough, you have the option to sign up and take the stage! 8 p.m. Free admission. Jake & Johnny’s Lounge, 294-298 Atwells Ave., Providence, jakeandjohnnyslounge.com
12th Annual Lord of the Wings
THROUGH JAN. 31: A good wing never misses, and if you’re trying to find the best wings in Rhode Island this event is just for you! The twelfth annual Lord of the Wings allows you to find the greatest wings the ocean state has to offer. At least twenty-five restaurants are offering six free wings so there is no way you will not find your true wing soulmate here. 8 a.m.–11 p.m. $30. Entire State of Rhode Island, eventbrite.com
Frozen Clam Dip & Obstaplunge
JAN. 4: Hosted by Laid-back Fitness and Mentor RI, this is not your regular New Year’s Plunge. The Frozen Clam features an American Ninja Warrior-style shoreline obstacle course suitable for all ages before diving into the freezing waters of Narragansett Bay. As a fundraiser, this event supports and assists in building the capacity of Mentor RI’s mentoring programs. 11:35 a.m.–3:35 p.m. Adults $44; children $22. Goddard Park, Ivy Rd., Warwick, mentorri.org
Rhode Island Brew Fest
JAN. 25: Sip your way through the twelfth annual Rhode Island Brew Fest! This celebration of American craft breweries features the highest end brews the state has to offer. Featuring more than fifty-five breweries with more than 175 beers to sample from, you’ll stay warm enough to forget the cold altogether. The event provides two, three-hour sessions plus live music, local vendors and a food court. 1–8:30 pm. $60 for Sessions 1 & 2. $20 for designated drivers. Waterfire Arts Center, 475 Valley St., Providence, ribrewfest.com
Free Movie Night at The Gamm Theatre
JAN. 25: Want to rewatch your favorite summer blockbuster for free? The Gamm Theatre is hosting a free movie night to watch Barbie in their comfortable stadium theatre. Enjoy a selection of snacks and drinks available for purchase. 7 p.m. Free admission. The Gamm Theatre, 1245 Jefferson Blvd., Warwick, gammtheatre.org
Providence Restaurant Weeks
JAN. 26–FEB. 8: Indulge your inner foodie with breakfast, lunch and/or dinner choices from the various eateries taking part in Providence Restaurant Weeks. Show your support for local establishments in the Creative Capital and order signature cocktails, specialty apps, family-size entrees and more. Various locations in Providence, goprovidence.com
Igloos at the Coast Guard House
ONGOING: Experience a unique dinner where you can dine in warmth and style in custom-designed igloos, nestled right by the sea. Each igloo provides an intimate setting for two to eight guests, complete with cozy comforts such as a Bluetooth speaker and a fireplace and heater to keep the chill at bay. Visit website for times. $100 rental fee. Coast Guard House, 40 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, thecoastguardhouse.com
Private Carriage Rides
ONGOING: Take an old-fashioned carriage ride led by Liberty Farm and Carriage Company’s majestic draft horses. The farm offers private carriages for two or a private group ride for up to fourteen riders. Visit the website for times. $75–$175. 60 Ironmine Rd., Burrillville, 651-6004, libertyfarm.net