Festivals are fun for everyone and there are some amazing ones scheduled throughout Rhode Island this summer. Some showcase the arts, while others focus on culture and heritage. Below is a list of some upcoming local festivals in and around Providence.
June
RI PrideFest (June 15) – Rhode Island's signature celebration of love, respect and joy features nonprofit organizations and businesses, food vendors and live entertainment all day, followed by the Illuminated Light Parade at 8 p.m.
Federal Hill Summer Festival (June 21–23) – Kick off summer with three days of food, entertainment and shopping among the old-world atmosphere of Federal Hill.
Juneteenth RI Festival (June 22) – The culmination of a month of Juneteenth events including a walking tour, art exhibit at the South Side Cultural Center and more. Celebrate the day with music, dancing, food and family fun!
Newport Pride Festival (June 28–30) – Celebrate community and promote love and inclusivity at Newport Pride Weekend. Join the Bike Parade on Saturday or head to the Great Friends Meeting House for an afternoon of local vendors, performers and music.
July
Cape Verdean Independence Day Festival (July 7) – This annual celebration of Cape Verdean culture includes traditional music, dance and food, along with local vendors.
Wickford Art Festival (July 13–14) – Over 200 artists showcase their fine art in a variety of mediums including ceramics, wood, drawing, mixed media, painting, photography and more.
FringePVD (July 14–27) – Fun, fearless and affordable theater produced by local emerging and established performing artists.
Newport Dance Festival (July 17–21) – The festival stage on the lawn of the Great Friends Meeting House features unique dances from local and visiting dance companies.
Puerto Rican Bay Fest (July 21) – Celebrate Puerto Rican culture at India Point Park with music, food, drinks, family friendly entertainment and more.
August
Charlestown Seafood Festival (Aug. 2–4) – Three days of Rhode Island's best seafood, arts and crafts, amusement rides, a car show and even fireworks!
African Summer Bash (Aug. 3) – Save the date for Oasis International's annual summer festival at Richardson Park celebrating African culture.
Flickers' Rhode Island International Film Festival (Aug. 6–11) – RIIFF screens independent films from around the world in all genres and formats at venues around Providence.
Ocean State Brewers Fest (Aug. 10) – The only beer event in the state that exclusively features Rhode Island breweries. Sample your favorites and speak to brewery staff in an intimate setting at Farm Fresh RI.
Dominican Festival & Parade (Aug. 11) – Parade starts at 10 a.m. at Thurbers Ave. and Broad St., followed by the festival at Roger Williams Park's Temple to Music.
Washington County Fair (Aug. 14–18) – Rhode Island's largest midway and agricultural event promotes rural heritage, serves as a venue for FFA and 4H to display projects, and provides affordable family entertainment.
Rhythm and Roots Festival (Aug. 30–Sept. 1) – A weekend festival featuring three stages of Cajun, blues, country, bluegrass and more genres of music.
Pawtucket Arts Festival (Aug. 31–Sept. 8) – Celebrate the vibrant arts community in Pawtucket with two weeks of free arts events.
