Nestled in New England in the US, Rhode Island is a captivating state that boasts gorgeous natural landscapes. Also, it is home to breathtaking pristine beaches that are popular destinations during the summer. As you explore this side of the US, you will come across charming colonial towns that seem frozen back in time. Rhode Island also has major cities with thriving economies, upscale attractions, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Here, you’ll find the city of Newport which is acknowledged for its remarkable mansions. If you are a wandering soul with an inner social butterfly, here is a list of popular festivals in Rhode Island, the USA that you might want to check out when you visit the city. Feel free to browse below.
1. Newport International Boat Show
If you are planning a quick vacation getaway in the stunning city of Newport in September, be sure to catch the wonderful Newport International Boat Show that happens in the city, annually. If you are interested in boating, this event will be extra special to you. Held in the vibrant Bellevue Avenue Suite, this festival dominates the city’s waterscape. Lots of programs are prepared for participants, including a presentation of modern aquatic vessels, marine products exhibits, seminars, and food and drinks are sold from every corner of downtown Newport.
Newport International Boat Show
Address: 130 Bellevue Ave Suite 204, Newport, RI 02840, United States
Website: Newport International Boat Show
Takes place: September
2. Gaspee Days
One of the many efforts of the government of Rhode Island to preserve the city’s fascinating history and rich culture, Gaspee Days features a series of fun-filled events and activities for locals and tourists alike. It is a fantastic annual event that has been recurring since 1965. Some of the highlights of Gaspee Days are the military parade called Gaspee Days Parade and the burning of the ship which locals fondly call Burning of the Gaspee. Aside from those, there are trade fairs that sell local crafts at the festival.
Gaspee Days
Address: Narragansett Parkway (8,507.83 mi), Warwick, Rhode Island 02888
Website: Gaspee Days
Takes place: Usually held in June
3. Rhode Island International Film Festival
A wonderful event that will surely pique the interest of movie junkies and film enthusiasts, the Rhode Island International Film Festival is surely an unmissable celebration. It is held in Providence and Newport annually. Spearheaded by Flickers - Newport Film/Video Society & Arts Collaborative, the RIIFF is an intimate event that features movie screenings, an awards night, lectures from experts in the industry, and a delightful after-party for the attendees.
Rhode Island International Film Festival
Address: The Vets, 83 Park Street, Suite 5 (8,503.03 mi), Providence, Rhode Island 02903
Website: Rhode Island International Film Festival
Takes place: August
Price: From 15 USD
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4. Newport Winter Festival [Last event in 2020]
Experience warmth during the winter season as the Newport Winter Festival takes place in Pelham Street. This exciting event welcomes families, couples, groups of friends, and even solo wanderers for 10 days of music, entertainment, and delicious culinary delights. Newport Winter Festival bills itself as New England’s Largest Winter Extravaganza. Expect a fascinating chili cook-off, Princess Party, Mac & Cheese Smackdown, and other well-curated activities for all types of visitors. Plus, a live band will grace the stage at the festival to provide lovely entertainment for all.
Newport Winter Festival
Address: 28 Pelham St, Newport, RI 02840, United States
Website: Newport Winter Festival
Takes place: February
Rhode Island Tour Guide
Naim Benmayor
As a Boston tour guide, I have the added experience of being a world traveler. For many years, I frequently visited Europe, Asia, and Latin America on business. During this time, I also organized tours of the USA, Europe and Asia for my business clients. I now bring this passion, excitement and expertise to the Boston area.By exploring the globe, I was exposed to various cultures, and this unique perspective has taught me what appeals to people when visiting a new part of the country or a new part of the world. My fluency in English and Turkish, and my advanced skills in Spanish and intermediate skills in French, also help me to service a wider range of tourists and business people.I moved to Boston, Massachusetts several years ago, and I now reside in Brookline. I have three children, so I develop my tours to accommodate families with kids, couples, and individuals who want to visit and learn about the rich history and culture of Boston. As a parent, I know that Boston is a great place for higher education, and I have knowledge of the colleges and universities in the area.I customize tours to suit the needs and preferences of my customers. Whether you want a walking tour, a riding tour, or a little of both, I can create an itinerary that showcases the best of what Boston has to offer.My one day tours are educational and entertaining, and include the history, culture, personalities, architecture and, even the shopping areas of this renowned city. At the end of the tour you will be happy and satisfied when you realize you've seen so much in just a short time.I am here to share my knowledge of Boston, Cambridge and all of New England with you, and help you to enjoy your visit so you can explore the must-see parts of this great city. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you around the city, so please send me a message if you have any questions.Thank you for reading.
5. Providence Folk Festival
Another fantastic event that happens in Providence every year is the Providence Folk Festival. Held in Bullocks Point Avenue with the views of the picturesque river as the backdrop of the festival, this event will surely bring so much joy to its attendees. Lots of local and international bands are features to showcase their talents and provide entertainment for the people. Additionally, food and drink vendors are present to serve delicious snacks to satisfy some hungry tummies. This is an excellent celebration to close the summer season.
Providence Folk Festival
Address: 701 Bullocks Point Avenue (8,504.29 mi), Riverside, Rhode Island 02915
Website: Providence Folk Festival
Takes place: August
Price: Free
6. Providence Boat Show
If Newport boasts their Newport International Boat Show every September, Providence is not left behind. This captivating city has its own version which they call the Providence Boat Show, and it happens in January of each year. Whether you are a boat owner or a frustrated sailor who wants to learn the ropes of boating, the Providence Boat Show is an event that you should not miss. Here you can browse through the exhibits of various marine vehicles and equipment and the show can help you plan the things you need to buy to start your adventures in the sea. Also, trade fairs are positioned in Sabin Street, where guests can purchase quality local items and gorge on palatable snacks.
Providence Boat Show
Address: 1 Sabin St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
Website: Providence Boat Show
Takes place: January
7. Newport Folk Festival
Just like Providence, Newport celebrates a folk festival, which is called the Newport Folk Festival. It happens every year, sometimes in July and August, and it brings so much entertainment and lasting memories for festival-goers. Same with Providence Folk Festival, the Newport Folk Festival invites international and local bands, to give high-energy, folk-oriented musical performances that will amp up the party vibes in Fort Adams Drive. It started in 1959 and has continuously grown bigger and grander each year. Tasty snacks and alcoholic drinks can be bought in the area for a complete festival experience.
Newport Folk Festival
Address: 80 Fort Adams Dr, Newport, RI 02840, United States
Website: Newport Folk Festival
Takes place: Usually held in July
8. Rhode Island Seafood Festival
An event that will excite foodie travelers, Rhode Island hosts an exciting Rhode Island Seafood Festival, and it takes place in Providence. In 2020, it is scheduled on the 12th and 13th of September, labor day weekend, at India Street. Presented by numerous local restaurants and food businesses, this festival will take you to a delicious culinary escapade that you will never forget. It started not long ago in 2011, but since then, it has cemented its place in the social scene of Providence and a lot of people are excited about it every year, including tourists.
Rhode Island Seafood Festival
Address: 263 India St (8,504.24 mi), Providence, Rhode Island 02903
Website: Rhode Island Seafood Festival
Takes place: September (every weekend after Labor Day)
Price: 10 USD
9. Newport Jazz Festival
Make the most of your summer vacation by traveling to Newport to attend the fun-filled and exciting New Port Jazz Festival. Immerse in the city’s jazz heritage, unleash your inner social butterfly, and listen to the country’s top bands as they play their music in one big festival ground. This huge party happens in Fort Adams Drive with Newport’s waterscape as the backdrop. It’s been recurring since 1954 and its attendees grow in number as the years go by. In 2020, the Newport Jazz Festival will take place on August 7, falling on a Friday.
Newport Jazz Festival
Address: 80 Fort Adams Dr, Newport, RI 02840, United States
Website: Newport Jazz Festival
Takes place: Usually held in August
10. Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show
Whether you are someone with a green thumb or someone who just has a deep appreciation for Mother Nature, you are welcome to experience the activities and offerings of Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show. During the festival, guests can wander around 10,000 square feet (929 square meters) of breathtaking gardens and marvel at the beauty of nature. Also, you can join or be a spectator in an interesting Floral Competition that serves as one of the highlights of the event. Additionally, a home tour and furniture exhibit is part of the Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show. Guests can also bag some lovely souvenir items and local crafts at the festival.
Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show
Address: 1 Sabin Street, Providence, RI 02903, United States
Website: Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show
Takes place: April
Discover the fascinating festivals in Rhode Island
Home to stunning major cities and charming colonial towns, Rhode Island is a captivating state in the US that is worth visiting. It has lots of attractions that draw tourists from all over the country, including gorgeous sandy beaches. Also, it boasts a vibrant party scene and the list of festivals that are held in it are testaments to its fascinating culture.
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