38 Fun Things To Do this November

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Entertainment: Rhode Island Comic Con

NOV. 1–3 

Photo courtesy of Go Providence.

Meet the stars of your favorite fandoms and get a behind-the-scenes look at hit TV shows and blockbuster movies at this year’s comic con. Plus, be sure to remember to wear (or even create!) cosplay outfits that will make you feel like you’re a part of the magic. Fri. 3–9 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.–
7 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Visit the website for ticket prices. Amica Mutual Pavilion, 1 La Salle Sq., and the Rhode Island Convention Center, 1 Sabin St., Providence, ricomiccon.com

Food: Newport Restaurant Week

NOV. 1–10

Photo courtesy of Discover Newport

Head to the City by the Sea and its neighboring coastal communities for a week chock-full of great deals on tasty treats and iconic eats. Take advantage of the lighter crowds and cooler temperatures of the offseason to experience Newport’s culinary delicacies at a discount, from BOGO deals, prix fixe offerings and more for every meal of the day. Visit the website for participating restaurants, menus and prices. Various locations in Newport and surrounding towns, discovernewport.org/newport-restaurant-week

Music: Rhode Island Philharmonic

NOV. 8–9

Join the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School in welcoming their new music director Ruth Reinhardt to the orchestra with a special event, “Welcome Ruth Reinhardt.” Conducted by Ruth Reinhardt with Blake Pouliot on the violin, enjoy Dvořák’s Symphony No.9 (From the New World), Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto and Hindemith’s Symphonic Metamorphosis of Themes by Carl Maria von Weber. Open rehearsal Fri. 5:30 p.m. TACO Classical Sat. 7:30 p.m. Visit the website for tickets and pricing. The Vets, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Providence, 248-7000, tickets.riphil.org

Photo courtesy of Fine Furnishings Show

Etcetera: Fine Furnishings Show

NOV. 8–10 

Artists and craftspeople display their work in this annual event, featuring a designer showroom, a parade of chairs, woodworking demonstrations and best in show awards. Fri. 4–8 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. WaterFire Arts Center, 475 Valley St., Providence, finefurnishingsshows.com

Gala: The Stable Presents the Gala PVD

NOV. 15

Dress up for this black-tie event and enjoy a magical night complete with live music, passed hors d’oeuvres, a photo booth and 360-degree video platform, queens from “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” “Dragula” stars and more, all while benefiting the ACLU of Rhode Island. Participate in silent auctions, indulge in a delicious three-course meal and dance the night away to the beats of multiple DJs. 6 p.m. $325 per seat. Graduate Providence, 11 Dorrance St., Providence, thegalapvd.com

Theater: Trinity Rep’s A Christmas Carol at PPAC

NOV. 23–DEC. 4, Dec. 26–29 

Photo courtesy of Trinity Repertory Company/Mark Turek

Witness the iconic holiday tale come to life on stage during Trinity Rep’s production of A Christmas Carol, this year at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Get into the holiday spirit and watch as Ebenezer Scrooge goes on a transformative journey with the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future in this timeless classic. Visit the website for times and prices. 351-4242, trinityrep.com; Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset St., Providence, 421-2787, ppacri.org

Holidays: Holidays at the Newport Mansions

NOV. 22–JAN. 1 

Photo courtesy of Discover Newport/David Hansen

What could be more opulent and exquisite than the Newport Mansions? How about those mansions strewn with twinkling lights and elaborate holiday decorations? Admire nearly thirty Christmas trees, hundreds of poinsettias, garlands, wreaths, fresh floral arrangements and more during your visit to the Newport Mansions this holiday season. Visit the website for more details. newportmansions.org

Fitness: Rhode Island Family Turkey Trot 5K and Youth Trot

NOV. 28 

Before you dig into your holiday feast, start your Thanksgiving with fresh air, exercise and family time during the annual Turkey Trot. Make unforgettable memories with the family while leisurely strolling (or make it a race!) throughout the streets of Pawtucket. And, of course, if you ever need motivation to make it to the finish line, just remember there’s pumpkin pie waiting for you on the other side. The 5K starts at 10 a.m.; Youth Trot starts at 9:30 a.m. Visit the website for pricing. The 5K and Youth Trot will start near City Hall, on Roosevelt Avenue, Pawtucket, runrhody.com

Shopping: Providence Flea Black Friday Holiday Market

NOV. 29 

Shop local this Black Friday and snag unique finds for all the people on your list at the Providence Flea Black Friday market. Choose from a variety of one-of-a-kind items including ornaments, vintage vinyl, upcycled clothing, handcrafted jewelry, wreaths and more. Free admission. 5:30–9 p.m. Farm Fresh Rhode Island, 10 Sims Ave., Providence, 484-7783, providenceflea.com

Family: Holiday Lights Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo

NOV. 29–JAN. 4 

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. 5–9:30 p.m. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, 785-3510, rwpzoo.org

THEATER

Granite Theatre

NOV. 29–DEC. 15: Listen in to A 1940s Radio Christmas Carol — a play with all of the chaos of a live radio show, during a live show. Experience the noisy pipes, electrical problems and a breakdown where the novice radio host William St. Claire connects his life with the Dicken’s classic Christmas tale. To save the show, a film noir ending with Tiny Tim, a femme fatale, and a detective is improvised. $30 youth, $32 seniors, $35 adults. 1 Granite St., Westerly, 596-2341, granitetheatre.org 

The VETS

ONGOING: The VETS is offering a variety of shows this month. On Nov. 2, watch Sinatra impersonator Brian Dupre and a twelve-piece orchestra in “RIIAHF Honors and Salute to Sinatra”. Joe Andruzzi and Dr. Ed Iannuccilli will appear in this show. The famous actor Ronny Chieng will be at the VETS on Nov. 16 for “Ronny Chieng: The Love to Hate It Tour”. On Nov. 22, tackle the issues of edibles and diarrhea at “Nick Swardson: Toilet Head”. If you want to listen to music, visit on Nov. 23 for “Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue”.  See website for times and ticket prices. 1 Ave. of the Arts, Providence, 421-2787, thevetsri.com

Trinity Rep

ONGOING: Until Nov. 17, see Ms. Holmes and Ms. Watson- Apt. 2B, where Sherlock Holmes and her roommate Joan Watson solve mysteries in post-pandemic London. Visit website for more information. 201 Washington St., Providence, 351-4242, trinityrep.com

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

Holiday Shopping Extravaganza

NOV. 10: This fair, hosted by We Be Jammin, offers over one hundred local vendors, making this truly extravagant. It even has horse drawn wagons and a petting zoo. Free admission. 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Crowne Plaza, 801 Greenwich Ave., Warwick, 527-0414, webejamminevents.com

The Good Trade Makers Market

NOV. 23–24: Celebrate the trades at this two-day market. Each ticket gets you a drink (whether alcoholic or nonalcoholic, or $2 off a beverage). Visit the website to see what vendors will be at the event and start planning for holiday shopping. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., WaterFire Arts Center, 475 Valley St., Providence, goodtrademakersmarket.com 

Christkindlmarkt

NOV. 30: A local rendition of the traditional German Christmas markets, complete with Glühwein (mulled wine) and Goulash. Lots of vendors and food options will be offered, so that guests can find something for everyone. Noon–5 p.m. 78 Carter Ave., Pawtucket, 726-9873, gacsri.org

PVD Flea Markets

ONGOING: Obsess over vintage finds and locally sourced products from more than seventy-five vendors including indie makers, bakers, clothing vendors and more. Celebrate Black Friday with local products on Nov. 29 from 5:30–9 p.m. Market Hall: Sun. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission. Farm Fresh RI Market Hall, 10 Sims Ave, Providence, 484-7783, providenceflea.com

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. On Nov. 24, the event will be the 5^th annual Cranberry-Craze Market. Enjoy cranberry-infused and based goods! This event will run until 2 p.m. Farmers market: Every Sunday. 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Free. Tiverton Middle School Cafeteria, 10 Quintal Dr., Tiverton, 474-1064, tivertonfarmersmarket.com

Lord of the Pies 2024

ONGOING: At least 20 restaurants are handing out pizza to figure out who has the #BestPizzaRI. Plus, Yacht Club soda will be there, giving out soda, for passport purchases. $30. 48 Hudson St., Providence, rifoodfights.com

TRIPS AND TOURS

Crime and Cuisine Tour

ONGOING: Follow your (under)belly through the many culinary delights of Providence’s Federal Hill, the city’s hub of all things Italian, while sampling Italian delicacies and learning about the city’s colorful characters who sometimes strayed to the other side of the law. Meet at Garibaldi Park at the base of the La Pigna gateway arch. Visit website for dates and times. $75. 99 Atwells Ave., Providence, 408-6608, pvdtourco.com

Rhode Island Red Food Tours

ONGOING: Explore your favorite Rhody neighborhoods with a food stroll featuring delicious food samplings plus alcohol (and nonalcoholic) pairings at five to six independent restaurants and eateries. Tours take place in Providence and Newport. Reservations are required. Visit website for dates, times and prices. 684-1110, rhodeislandredfoodtours.com

Providence River Boat Company

ONGOING: Take one of the daily tours to learn more about Rhode Island, sip on locally distilled cocktails while enjoying the scenery, and more one-of-a-kind river cruise experiences with the Providence River Boat Company. Visit the website for dates, times, prices and other information. 101 Dyer St., Providence, 580-2628, providenceriverboat.com

Newport Black History Walking Tour

ONGOING Learn about the local history of Colonial Black Americans, enslaved and freed, on this one-mile-long tour along Historic Hill in Newport. Each tour starts at 10 a.m. on Bowen’s Wharf, near the Pilot House. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays 10–11:15 a.m. Adults $20, students and veterans $15, children under twelve $10, infants free. 45 Americas Cup Ave., Newport, rishm.org

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 tickets. Rosecliff, the Breakers, the Elms, Marble House and the Greens Animal Topiary Garden, Newport, newportmansions.org

MUSIC

United Theatre

NOV. 2 AND 23: Rock out with John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band on Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m. If you’re more of a TV fan than a rock n’ roll fan, maybe you’ve watched “The Sopranos.” Stars of the show Steve Schirripa, Michael Imperioli and Vincent Pastore will be talking about their experiences in the show on Nov. 23 in “Sopranos Live” at 8 p.m. See the website for ticket prices. United Theatre, 5 Canal St., Westerly, 388-8208, unitedtheatre.org

WELLNESS

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

BENEFITS

Sojourner House Masquerade Ball

NOV. 22: Dress up to enter the enchanted forest, where seeds of hope are planted. Faires, moss-covered tables, live music by bands such as Toys 2 Men and DJ Dayglow, a silent auction, and a woodland-themed dessert contest. This dance benefits and is held by Sojourner House. $150-200. Graduate Providence, 11 Dorrance St., Providence, sojournerri.org

Thanksgiving Day Pie Run

NOV. 28: Want to help your community, get a T-shirt and a bib, and get some exercise, all at the same time? Start your Thanksgiving Day holiday with a run/walk with the Newport County YMCA. All proceeds from the tickets go to the YMCA Community Support Program and bring a non-perishable food item for a local food bank. Feel free to bring your dogs or kids in strollers! There is even a virtual option if you want to run your own path, but still do good and get a tee shirt and bib. Make sure to register ahead of time! Arrive at 7:15 a.m. if you have not picked up your bib, 7:45 a.m. if you picked up your bib ahead of time, race starts at 8:30 a.m. Starts at Newport County YMCA, 792 Valley Rd., Middletown, runsignup.com

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

Museum of Work and Culture

THROUGH NOV. 30: Visit the Musuem of Work and Culture and be moved by the Welcome Blanket project. This exhibit makes the concept of immigration tangible through handmade blankets and the makers’ own stories of immigration. The blankets are gifted to new immigrants after being on display. Adults $10; seniors, veterans, and students $8; children ten and younger free. 42 South Main St., Woonsocket, 769-9675, rihs.org 

RISD Museum

ONGOING: Plan your in-person visit in advance online and check out exhibitions on view including “Sensory Silhouettes: Experiencing South Asian Garments” and “Brighten Up!: Contemporary Enamels” 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 “Christo and Jeanne-Claude: Ocean Front, 50 Years Later.” and “Nick Mele: Pages and Play”. 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

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular — Trivia Edition

THROUGH NOV. 2: Catch the end of this Halloween display and admire this iconic Rhode Island fall tradition at Roger Williams Park Zoo. And this year, there’s a trivia twist — as you’re walking among the thousands of creatively carved pumpkins, you’ll be able to solve trivia clues related to the theme of the carvings. 6–10:30 p.m. Visit the website for admission prices. Note: tickets are sold online only. Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, 785-3510, rwpzoo.org

Caffeinated Insomniacs Comedy Show

THROUGH NOV. 29: Audience participation fuels this interactive comedy show, so there’s no sitting back and enjoying a quiet night here. Whether you applaud for a scene, yell out fantastic ideas to spur on the performers, or jump up on stage with the Bring Your Own Improv crew, you’ll be an engaged part of the show. Shouting out suggestions is encouraged. For teens and adults. Fri. at 10 p.m. $10. Warwick Center for the Arts, 3259 Post Rd., Warwick, bringyourownimprov.com. 

Frosty Drew Observatory

NOV. 1 AND 8: Look out over Ninigret Park and catch up on all the amazing things happening in space, weather permitting. Hang out with astronomers and telescopes as you see the rings of Saturn, Galilean moons of Jupiter, the Milky Way and much more. Adults $5; ages five and younger free. 7–10 p.m. 62 Park Ln., Ninigret Park, Charlestown, 859-1450, frostydrew.org

WaterFire Providence: Salute to Veteran’s

NOV. 2: Feel the warmth of a full lighting during this chilly fall evening. Admire flaming braziers at Waterplace Park and traveling all the way down to South Main Street Park. The lighting starts at sunset and ends at 10 p.m. Free. Waterplace Park, Providence, 273-1155, waterfire.org

Nature Drawing at Blithewold

NOV. 7, 14, AND 21: Use Blithewold’s gardens and grounds for inspiration in this nature drawing class with artist and instructor Joanne Murrman. Focus on how to render color, texture and design in flora and landscape. Each week will cover a different topic and technique, but the main drawing medium is colored pencils. Beginning, intermediate and advanced students are encouraged to attend. Registration required. 10 a.m.–noon. $45; $35 for members. Visit the website to register and for more information. 101 Ferry Rd., Bristol, 253-2707, blithewold.org

#RIWalksChallenge Scavenger Hunt

ONGOING: All ages are welcome to explore more than thirty trails throughout the state as you try to find the thirty-four “creatures” resembling sweetgum seed pods, chanterelle mushrooms, black oak leaves and more. Each creature features a unique QR code, allowing you to track your progress and learn more about each plant. Share discoveries on social media by tagging @RI.walks and using #RIWalksChallenge, riwalks.org/challenge