31 Fun Things to Do in Rhode Island This July
From the Providence Fringe Festival to the Blessing of the Fleet, we've compiled all the local activities that should be on your to do list this month.
FEATURED
Courtesy of Go Providence
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT: WaterFire Lightings
ONGOING
As the sun sets on the Creative Capital this summer, feel the warmth of the partial and full lightings, which feature flaming braziers from Waterplace Park all the way down to Memorial Park on South Main Street. Lightings start at sunset. Free. Visit website for more dates. Memorial Boulevard, Providence, 273-1155, waterfire.org
INDEPENDENCE DAY: Bristol Fourth of July Celebration
JULY 3–4
Courtesy of Discover Newport
On July 3, the nation’s oldest Independence Day celebration starts with some popping fireworks, then continues at 10:30 a.m. the next day with the iconic Fourth of July parade. Sport your red, white and blue and watch the bands and elaborate floats travel down Hope Street. Get there early: Chestnut Street, Naomi Street and Sherry Avenue will be closed off for the parade route. 10:30 a.m. Free. Parade starts at the corner of Chestnut and Hope streets, Bristol, fourthofjulybristolri.com
GOOD EATS: Providence Restaurant Weeks
JULY 6–19
Sample a bevy of restaurants in downtown Providence and neighboring areas for the ultimate meals and deals. Participating eateries have you covered for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, drinks and dessert; need we say more? Either visit your usual Saturday night spot or take your taste buds for a ride at a new location. Various locations in Providence, goprovidence.com/rw
FINE ART: Wickford Art Festival
JULY 12–13
Courtesy of Wickford Art Festival/Michael G. Masi
Browse through one-of-a-kind treasures made by local and national artists, both new and returning, at the Wickford Art Festival. Enjoy stunning seaside views while admiring paintings, photography, jewelry, ceramics, furniture and more. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission. Wilson Park, 211 West Main St., North Kingstown, 294-6840, wickfordart.org
EDGY ART: Providence Fringe Festival
JULY 13–26
Courtesy of Providence Fringe Festival/Erin X. Smithers
Take in unexpected performances during the eleventh annual Providence Fringe Festival, founded in 2014 by the Wilbury Theatre Group. Keep an open mind: The censor-free festival features a variety of performing and visual artists. All ticket sales support the artists. Tickets up to $20. Various venues in Providence, fringepvd.org
EXPRESSIVE DANCE: Newport Dance Festival
JULY 16–20
Courtesy of Newport Dance Festival
The Newport Dance Festival will feature a unique selection of artistic dances from five visiting dance companies as well as Newport’s resident Newport Contemporary Ballet. Feel free to bring a picnic, blanket and lawn chairs for the outdoor event. 7:30 p.m.; gates open 6:30 p.m. $20–$250. Great Friends Meeting House, 21 Farewell St., Newport, 847-4470, newportcontemporaryballet.org
DOWNTOWN FUN: Wakefield RiverFire
JULY 17, AUG. 21, SEPT. 18
Stroll down Wakefield’s Main Street and participate in the annual RiverFire summer series on Thursday evenings. Visit local artisans, small businesses and food trucks, and explore downtown once the music gets started. Take in improv and other performances by the Contemporary Theater Company, plus enjoy the ambiance of the glowing fires. 6 p.m. Free. Saugatucket Park and downtown Wakefield, wakefieldvillageassociation.com
CLASSICAL MUSIC: Kingston Chamber Music Festival
JULY 23–AUG. 3
Courtesy of Kingston Chamber Music Festival
Immerse yourself in captivating melodies during the thirty-seventh annual Kingston Chamber Music Festival, themed “Where Coast Meets Cadence.” From Latin music traditions to notable classical
music composers, each concert offers an enchanting performance. Visit website for concert venues and times. Tickets up to $40. 64 Upper College Rd., Kingston; 18 Valley St., Jamestown, 308-3614, kingstonchambermusic.org
THREE-DAY FEST: Blessing of the Fleet Festival
JULY 24–26
Gear up for a three-day extravaganza in Narragansett. Kick things off Thursday night with food vendors, games, rides and a beer and wine tent, plus live music performed by popular local bands. On Friday, join a crowd of more than 3,000 runners, walkers and wheelchair entrants on a scenic ten-mile road race and celebrate your accomplishment on the festival grounds. On Saturday, the Blessing of the Fleet features a parade of decorated commercial and recreational watercraft, and an optional boat decorating contest. Later in the day, enjoy more festivities and live music. Visit the website for fees and times. Memorial Square (next to the Towers), Narragansett, narragansettlionsclub.org
UNIQUE WARES: The Newport Show: Antiques, Art & Exquisite Objects
JULY 25–27
Courtesy of Newport Historical Society/Jennifer Manville Photography
Feast your eyes on intriguing fine art and fashion at the Newport Show, highlighting antiques, exquisite objects and more. Proceeds from this event benefit the Newport Historical Society and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; the gala preview party on July 25 is from 6–9 p.m. $15–$20; visit website for preview party tickets. St. George’s School Ice Rink, 375 Purgatory Rd., Middletown, 846-2669, thenewportshow.com
ARTS AND CULTURE
Eric Lutes Art Show
JULY 10: Actor Eric Lutes puts on an art gallery at the historic Courthouse Center for the Arts in West Kingstown. The pieces will take inspiration from the beaches and ocean of Charlestown and Maine, while certain pieces focus specifically on quahogs and oysters. The gallery opening gala takes place July 10 from 5–8 p.m. Visit site for ticket information. The Courthouse Center for the Arts, 3481 Kingstown Rd, West Kingstown, 401-782-1018, courthousearts.org
FirstWorks Concert Series
JULY 11 and JULY 25: The FirstWorks Concert Series stretched from June to August with two performances in July, both of which will take place at Roger Williams Boathouse in Providence. Both performances will start at 6 p.m. and food trucks will open at 5 p.m. With The William Cepeda and Elio Villafranca Sextet: Merging Roots performing on July 11 and Khumariyann on July 25. These performances will be rich in culture and storytelling. Clark Dalrymple Boathouse, 1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence; firstworks.org
Waitress at Theatre By the Sea
THRU JULY 19: Grammy-award winning singer and songwriter Sara Bareilles has composed her newest musical. The story follows a woman named Jenna who is forced to give up her dream due to an unexpected pregnancy. This unexpected event kicks off a string of flings, romance and joy while classic scores play. Showtimes vary. Theatre by the Sea, 364 Cards Pond Rd., Matunuck, 401-782-8587, theatrebythesea.com
FAIRS AND FESTIVALS
Sunset Celebration with Providence Drum Troupe
ONGOING: This summer celebrate music with mobile drummers from around the state. This mobile unit is full of dancers, flow artists and circus performers. This free-flowing group wants to see you dance every Tuesday from 6:30p.m. to 8:30p.m. and you can find them at District Park in Providence. 195 District Park, Providence, goprovidence.com/events
Pawtucket and Rhode Island FC Celebrate Independence Day
JULY 5: Join Rhode Island’s newest professional soccer team and the city of Pawtucket as the official 2025 fireworks show launches from Centreville Bank Stadium at Tidewater Landing. Game day is July 5 and kicks off at 7:30 p.m. with the fireworks show following the end of the game. 11 Tidewater St., Pawtucket, 401-955-7432, rhodeislandfc.com
Cape Verdean Independence Day Festival
JULY 6: 2025 marks the fiftieth anniversary of the Cape Verdean Independence Day Festival, a celebration of a culture that is deeply rooted in Rhode Island. This year the festival will be held at India Point Park and will feature live music. There will also be delicious Cape Verdean food and beautiful Cape Verdean art. Admission is only $5 and the event begins at noon and goes until 8 p.m. 225 India St., Providence, visitrhodeisland.com
Newport Kite Festival
JULY 12–13: Not only does Newport Kite Festival provide one of the most colorful weekends of the year, but you can also see the beautiful views of Brenton Point Park in Newport. This festival takes place from 10a.m. to 4p.m. Your prior kite flying experience is irrelevant, just come enjoy the colorful experience. Ocean Drive, Newport, newportkitefestival.com
Puerto Rican Bay Fest
JULY 20: Celebrate Rhode Island’s strong Puerto Rican culture at India Point Park from noon to 6 p.m. This festival will feature live music, amazing Puerto Rican food and refreshing drinks. It’s outdoor family fun while giving you the opportunity to appreciate one of Rhode Island’s strongest cultures. 225 India St., Providence, prpari.org/events
SPORTS
Rhode Island hosts Hartford Athletic
JULY 19: A year ago, Rhode Island FC became Rhode Island’s newest professional sports team making a slash in their first season as they won the USL Eastern Conference. However, their most anticipated game of the season was their first ever home match against rival Hartford. Over 5,000 attended including 300 bussed in by Hartford, the atmosphere was described as one of the best in American Pro Soccer. If you or anyone in your family has been looking for a game to attend this is the one you simply can’t miss. 11 Tidewater St., Pawtucket, 401-955-7432, rhodeislandfc.com
FOOD-FOCUSED
The Lawn Terrance at Castle Hill Inn
ONGOING: During the summer Castle Hill Inn, which has been around since 1875, becomes one of Newport’s most popular high end restaurants. Its view of the Pell Bridge over Narragansett Bay is complemented by one of the Ocean State’s best lobster rolls and if lobster isn’t for you, their fish and chips are well worth it as well. Their specialty drink, blueberry lemonade vodka, is sure to put a fun twist on your summer days in Rhode Island. 590 Ocean Dr., Newport, 401-849-3800, castlehillinn.com
Food Truck Friday
ONGOING: For the eleventh year Food Truck Friday returns to Roger Williams Park from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Spend the days at Roger Williams Zoo, Carousel Village or any of the other fun stuff Providence has to offer. Both beer and wine will be available although guests are not allowed to bring their own coolers and alcohol. However, you are encouraged to bring your pets. Pine Hill Ave., Providence, rwpzoo.org/food-truck-friday
MARKETS
Mount Hope Farmers Market
ONGOING: Every Saturday morning this summer you can support local businesses and get all of your produce and baked goods fresh. The Mount Hope Market has more than a dozen full-time vendors and even more rotating. Home good items and organic foods alike are all available at one of Rhode Island best farmers’ market. 250 Metacom Ave., Bristol, mounthopefarm.org
TOURS
Rhode Island Red Food Tours
ONGOING: Come explore Rhode Island’s food scene with people from all walks of life! Each tour will take you to five or six different eateries around the Ocean State where you’ll learn about the chef’s background. Take this journey with family or friends and expect a day full of great food. Most tours last up to three and a half hours and prices vary based on the tour. rhodeislandredfoodtours.com
Historic Boat Tour of Providence
ONGOING: This narrated tour runs through Providences waterways and showcases the heart of Rhode Island’s capital. Providence is full of amazing architecture and historical landmarks; this tour has been around for three decades and is sure to teach you something. Most day tours start at 11 a.m. and cost $26 per ticket. 101 Dyer St., Providence, providenceriverboat.com
GAME NIGHTS
Bingo Night Monday
ONGOING: This summer Newport Craft Brewery is committed to creating fun for the whole family. So, bring the family, friends or maybe to the weekly Monday night fun! No sign-up is required and both food and drinks will be served at a discounted price. Make this a can’t-miss night for family friendly fun. 293 JT Connell Hwy., Newport, 401-849-5232, newportcraft.com
Monday Night Trivia
ONGOING: Put your and your friend’s intelligence to the test this summer with weekly trivia nights at Narragansett Brewing Company from 7 to 9 p.m. Largely considered to be one of the best taprooms in Rhode Island take a trip to the Providence brewery where you can enjoy Rhode Island best local brews while flexing your knowledge on random topics. 271 Tockwotton St.
Providence, 401-437-8970, narragansettbeer.com
OUTDOOR FUN
Kayak Rentals in Downtown Providence
ONGOING: If you’re looking to explore Providence in your own time, then get to work with Providence Kayak Company. Rentals cost between $20 and $45 and last between forty-five to seventy-five minutes. While you’re welcomed to walk up to the launch spot in Providence, it is encouraged that you make prior reservations. 101 Dyer St., Providence, 401-829-1769, providencekayak.com
Rocky Point Blueberry Farm
ONGOING: As strawberry season comes to an end don’t fret, blueberry season is here! Pick fresh blueberries from the Rocky Point Farm, use them to make blueberry cobbler, blueberry crips, or maybe more simple things like muffins or pancakes. Whatever you use your blueberries for, you know they are fresh, local and handpicked. 130 Rocky Point Ave., Warwick, 401-378-2684, rockypointblueberries.com
Sakonnet River Garden
ONGOING: Rhode Island is full of natural beauty but Sakonnet River Garden in Little Compton is a must-see for those with a close relationship with mother nature. The garden is open for reservations 9:30 a.m. to noon, and then open again from 2 to 4 p.m. Reservations are necessary, and bikes are allowed as well. 510 West Main Rd., Little Compton, sakonnetgarden.net
Goat Hiking at Gather Farm
ONGOING: Looking for a hiking buddy? If so, head over to Gather Farm in Johnston where for $30 you can hit the trails with an adorable goat. Not only can you go hiking with these goats, but you can also make time to cuddle them as well. 380 Greenville Ave., Johnston, gatherfarm.com
Norman Bird Sanctuary
JULY 6: Over 300 acres of land, seven miles of hiking trails and over a hundred annual events and programs. The Norman Bird Sanctuary always has something for the family and friends to do on a sunny day. Specifically, you could go on the free guided bird walk on July 6 starting at 8 a.m. 583 Third Beach Rd., Middletown, 401-846-2577, normanbirdsanctuary.org/events
Cape Verdean Independence Day Festival
JULY 5: Celebrate 50 years of Cape Verde being independent from Portugal! Enjoy live traditional Cape Verdean performances featuring traditional music and dance while classic Cape Verdean dishes from local vendors will be available for purchase. Also expect cultural exhibits spotlighting Cape Verdean history. 12-8pm, 225 India Street, Providence, preservation.ri.gov/events/50th-cape-verdean-independence-day-festival
