Groundhog shadows ... hearts and flowers ... February is a quirky little month. Here's an update on what the PWCVB and its partners have been up to lately.
Valentine's Day is just a few days away, so be sure to check out our Valentine's Day page for things to do, dining options, getaways, gift ideas, a great contest and more. And while you're at it, visit our February Vacation page for ideas on what to do with the family while the kids are on break.
If you have new rack cards or menus, please make sure the Visitor Center receives them. It is the first place convention and meeting goers stop to find out what’s cool and what’s tasty. Do you have an event coming up? Perhaps a special event? Email Visitor Center Manager Elise Swearingen at eswearingen@GoProvidence.com to ensure your organization is represented at the Visitor Center.
CVB News
The Spring/Summer issue of the PWCVB's visitors guide, GoProvidence, will be on the shelves April 1. GoProvidence, the primary fulfillment piece of the PWCVB, is produced twice a year and is in the hands of thousands of visitors, meeting planners and convention attendees from groups ranging from US Finals Cheerleading to the National Governors Association. There are a few spots left, so don't miss out on the chance to advertise your business to these potential customers. Click here to book your ad now or contact Christine Phillips at cphillips@GoProvidence.com or 401-456-0223.
Don’t forget about our yummy arrangement with the Providence Journal for our "Small Bites" series. Learn from local chefs how to do everything from shucking an oyster to making fresh guacamole.
Partner Update
Tourism Cares is heading to Providence. The philanthropic arm of the tourism industry is known for helping at-risk or emerging destinations. The day-long volunteer effort to beautify India Point Park will take place September 15. The PWCVB and Tourism Cares invite you to sign up and make connections with other tourism professionals from around the country.
The Vig is finally open, and we couldn’t be more excited. Half sports bar – half sophisticated yet contemporary restaurant. Stop by for lunch or dinner, or a cocktail before the game at the Dunk. Conveniently located at the Hilton Providence, The Vig is the perfect place to meet up with friends.
Some changes are happening in Newport. The Hyatt Newport is officially now Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina. In May, the restaurant Scarpetta will open on the property, and throughout 2017 the guest experience will be enhanced as Gurney’s adds a new marina, expanded pool deck, and pool club, a kids’ club, and more.
Panera Bread is going clean! The company announced in January that over the next few months they will be phasing out the use of artificial flavors, preservatives, sweeteners, and colors from artificial sources. This is an incredible move for the national chain, and we can’t wait to feel less guilty about those caramel nut rolls.
In the News
Check out some recent headlines below:
"Providence, Rhode Island: Like a Local" — TravelMag.com
#2 "America’s Best Cities for Foodies" — Travel + Leisure
"Small Cities With Great Taste" — Convene
#5 "These Are the Cities With America's Favorite Pizza" — Travel + Leisure
"Under-the-Radar Food Cities" — TheDailyMeal.com
What's Comin' to the Providence/Warwick Area
February 15–17, 2017
Northeastern Retail Lumber Association
1,300 Attendees
Rhode Island Convention Center
February 17–20, 2017
2017 Ocean State Classic
2,400 Attendees
Ice Rinks throughout Rhode Island
February 17–26
Providence Children's Film Festival
Venues throughout Providence
February 26, 2017
Mardi Gras Gymnastics Invitational
700 Attendees
Rhode Island Convention Center
March 6–9
New England Turfgrass Conference and Expo
2,300 Attendees
Rhode Island Convention Center