Your May To Do List in Rhode Island
From the Newport Oyster and Chowder Festival to Providence PorchFest, we've compiled all the local activities that should be on your to do list this month.
Courtesy of Audubon Society of Rhode Island, photograph by Ed Hughes
NATURE: Bird Walks
THROUGHOUT MAY
Join the Audubon Society of Rhode Island for free bird walks during spring migration and watch different feathered friends move through the state each week. Walks will be led by Audubon experts to ensure the experience is as educational as it is enjoyable, and are geared for teens through adults. Accessible strolls are also offered for those who are hard of hearing. Locations throughout Rhode Island. Free. Register at asri.org
Photography courtesy of Sojourner House, painting by Douglas lee Brooks
ART: ‘Resilience Rising’ Art Exhibit
THROUGH May 30
View the works of Douglas Lee Brooks, a Southern artist whose work has never been for sale until now. The exhibition is a partnership between Jala Studio Yoga & Art and Sojourner House, with 100 percent of proceeds supporting Sojourner House in its mission of providing life-saving services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. The exhibition is on display at both Jala Studio locations. Free. Visit website for hours. Jala Studio Yoga & Art, 285 S. Main St., Providence; 727 East Ave., Pawtucket, jala-studio.com
ACOUSTIC MUSIC: Guster Acoustic Weekend
MAY 1–3
Known for hits like “Satellite,” “Amsterdam” and “One Man Wrecking Machine,” there’s a reason why alt-rock band Guster has been around for thirty years. The chance to see them like never before presents itself during this acoustic show, featuring stripped-down performances and intimate stage presence. $55.99–$109.99. May 1–2, 8 p.m.; May 3, 7 p.m. Uptown Theater, 270 Broadway, Providence, uptownpvd.com
WATCH PARTY: Kentucky Derby Viewing Party
MAY 2
Let the race begin! Wear an extravagant hat and channel Southern charm at this Kentucky Derby viewing event, where guests will receive a Maker’s Mark mint julep cup and a Kentucky Derby hat, both iconic
parts of the derby experience.Cheer for your favorite horse while sipping cocktails and taking in the elegant Ocean House atmosphere. Prizes will go to the best-dressed guests, so bring your A game! $135. 6 p.m. Ocean House,1 Bluff Ave., Westerly, oceanhouseri.com
Warren’s Spring Stroll. Courtesy of Discover Newport
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FEST: Warren’s Spring Stroll
MAY 3
Enjoy special sales, pop-ups, demonstrations and seasonal displays during this annual event. Expect to get your steps in while strolling around Warren’s vibrant downtown and taking part in family-friendly activities, live music, giveaways, specialty food offerings and more. May 2 rain date. Free. Noon–5 p.m. Warren, discoverwarren.org
Newport Oyster and Chowder Festival. Photo courtesy of Discover Newport
FOOD: Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival
MAY 16–17
A whole weekend dedicated to slurping down fresh oysters and comforting chowder! With more than seventy-five oyster farms in the Ocean State, no two oysters are truly alike, and this event is the perfect excuse to taste the difference for yourself. Freshly shucked oysters from select farms and award-winning chowder from local restaurants offer seafood lovers a chance to indulge and learn. Free admission. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, bowenswharf.com
Courtesy of Vanessa Carlton, photograph by Patrick Mcpheron
SINGER-SONGWRITER: An Evening with Vanessa Carlton
MAY 17
Catch Vanessa Carlton perform at The Met during her Veils tour ahead of her seventh studio album release. The tour invites audience members to think about what veils they’re putting on and what veils they’re finally choosing to lift. $46 in advance; $51 day of. 7:30 p.m. The Met, 1005 Main St., Pawtucket, themetri.comg
Courtesy of Disney’s The Lion King/photograph by Even Zimmerman
THEATER: Disney’s The Lion King
MAY 20–JUNE 7
The six-time Tony Award-winning musical returns to PPAC, bringing all the animals of the Serengeti with it. Adapted from the beloved Disney film, this production includes breathtaking performances, stunning set design and songs audiences know and love. Whether you’re a Disney adult, Broadway fanatic or first-timer, seeing this sensational musical live is a must. Visit website for ticket prices and times. Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset St., Providence, ppacri.org
FESTIVAL: Gaspee Days Arts & Crafts Festival
MAy 23–25
Come out to shop and support more than 100 fine artisans, community groups and nonprofits during this year’s Gaspee Days Arts & Crafts Festival. Set on Narragansett Parkway, the event offers attendees local bites and the chance to discover one-of-a-kind arts and crafts. Live music performances from the Rob Davis Band, Kidd Katy and The Senders will round out the weekend. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Narragansett Parkway, Warwick, gaspee.com
Courtesy of Porchfest
MUSIC FEST: Providence Porchfest
MAy 30
Enjoy live local music at the fourth annual Providence Porchfest! All bands will play from porches, driveways and front yards on Providence’s East Side. Stroll through the streets, stop at a food truck or local eatery and mingle with other music lovers. Event is rain or shine. Visit the website for a map of performers and locations. Free. Noon–6 p.m. Providence, providenceporchfest.com
