Rhode Island events calendar

George M!, Matunuck, South Kingstown

Theatre By The Sea, 364 Cards Pond Road. Fast-paced show follows the great Providence-born song-and-dance man, George M. Cohan, over a sixty-year period from his childhood on the vaudeville circuit to New York, where he began his twenty-five-year reign on Broadway. Call (401) 782-8587, or visit the Theatre By The Sea website for more information.

Public Clambake, Middletown

Begins at 5:00pm. Kempenaar's Clambake Club, Valley Road. You are invited to an old-fashion clambake! When the bake bell rings, we'll serve you a feast of clam chowder, steamed clams, mussels, a whole lobster, chourico, and much more. Cash bar, entertainment. Rain or shine. Advance ticket purchase required; $45 with steak or lobster, $43 with chicken, $23 for kids under 12 (1/4 chicken). Call (401) 847-1441, email c84kemp20@aol.com, or visit Kempenaar's Clambake Club website for more information.

Narragansett Bay Lighthouse Cruise, Wickford, North Kingstown

6:30pm–8:30pm. Wickford Town Dock, Main Street. Board the motor vessel Sea Princess for a scenic tour of the lighthouses of the upper bay, including the newly restored Plum Beach Lighthouse, Dutch Island Light, Jamestown Light, Wickford Light, and others. Hear stories of shipwrecks and disasters, as well as maritime mishaps averted by lighthouses. Pack a dinner and bring it along. Program Fee: $28/member, $38/non-member; Ages: 13+. Call (401) 949-5454 x3041, or visit the Audubon Society of Rhode Island website for more information.

Fourth of July Parade Picnic, Bristol

8:00am–2:00pm. Linden Place, 500 Hope Street. Located on the parade route, Linden Place offers bleacher-style seating, tables and chairs under linden trees, a continental breakfast and picnic lunch, restroom facilities, and elbow room! $50 for adults, $35 for children. Call (401) 253-0390, or visit the Linden Place website for more information.

Block Island Fourth of July, Block Island

Various locations. 11am, real homespun patriotic parade along The Block's main street; 1pm, steak fry at the Firebarn; 9pm, firework on Crescent Beach. Call (800) 383-2474, or visit the Block Island Chamber of Commerce website for more information.

July Fourth Celebraton, Wakefield, South Kingstown

Old Mountain Field, Route 108. Live bands, children's activities, barbecue, fireworks. Call (401) 789-9301, or visit the Town of South Kingstown website for more information.

A Fox Point Fourth of July Walking Tour, Providence

11:00am–12:30pm. Reflections Cafe, 8 Governor Street. Today's walking tour will be a patriotic stroll through the Fox Point neighborhood. Come celebrate the life and works of Providence native George M. Cohan and one of the oldest and most diverse neighborhoods in Providence. $10 per person; reservations requested. Call (401) 331-8575 x45, email bbarnes@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society website for more information.

Vintage Baseball, Olneyville, Providence

Aldo Freda Field, Barton Street. Watch baseball played by 1884/1886 rules with the Providence Grays vs the Olneyville Temperance Cadets. Visit the Providence Grays website for more information.

Providence Restaurant Weeks, Providence

Citywide. This popular event has been extended to two weeks and will feature special prix fixe menus from restaurants throughout Providence. Visit the Providence Restaurant Week website for more information.

Fireworks on the Beach, Misquamicut, Westerly

Begins at 8:45pm. Westerly Town Beach, 365 Atlantic Avenue. Fireworks light the sky. Call (401) 322-1026 for more information.

Broad Street International Food Tour, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Cumberland

6:00pm–9:00pm. Broad Street. Explore the cultural diversity of Broad Street through weekly river tours, ethnic dining at restuarants, and live food demonstrations. This week: Mexican. $30 per person (excluding gratuity). Call (401) 724-2200, email info@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council website for more information.

Concert under the Elms, Providence

6:30pm–8:00pm. John Brown House, corner of Benefit and Power Streets. The Duke Robillard Band celebrates summer with classic blues, R&B, and swing. Adults, $8; Society members and children under twelve, free. Refreshments available for purchase. Visit the Duke Robillard Band or RIHS websites for more information.

Newport Gallery Night, Newport

5:00pm–8:00pm. Various venues. Art exhibits at galleries include handblown glass, woodblock prints, award-winning photography, international handcrafts, and fine arts. Many of the galleries host opening receptions, and introduce artists and new exhibits on Gallery Night. Free admission to all galleries; free parking at Newport Visitors Information Center, 23 America's Cup Avenue, or Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Avenue. Call (401) 848-8200, or visit the Newport Art Galleries website for more information.

Main Street Stroll, East Greenwich

5:00pm–8:00pm. Main Street. More than forty artists and musicians display and perform on the sidewalk of Main Street. Call (401) 886-8662, or visit the East Greenwich website for more information.

Newport Music Festival, Newport

Various venues. The Newport Music Festival celebrates its fortieth season, continuing the tradition of presenting unique chamber music programs, American debuts, world-class artists, and gala special events in the Gilded Age summer cottages of Newport. Call (401) 846-1133, or visit the Newport Music Festival website for more information.

Open House at Arnold House, Lincoln

11:00am–4:00pm. Eleazar Arnold House, 487 Great Road. Join a representative from Historic New England for a tour of this rarely-open seventeenth-century stone-ender. Visit the Historic New England website for more information.

Mystery Cookout, Exeter

11:00am–2:00pm. Ocean State Harley-Davidson Shop, 435 Nooseneck Hill Road (Route 3). Join us for a themed family barbecue. The mystery is what will be cooking on the grill! Call (401) 392-1162, or visit the Ocean State Harley-Davidson website for more information.

46th Annual Wickford Art Festival, Wickford, North Kingstown

Route 1A. The country's oldest open-air art fair features more than 250 artists from around the country and around the world. Fine arts-paintings, sculpture, and photography. Call (401) 294-6840, or visit the Wickford Art Association website for more information.

33rd Annual Cape Verdean Independence Day Celebration, Providence

12:00pm–7:00pm. Roger Williams Park, Temple of Music. Celebration of Cape Verdean Independence. Traditional food, music, dance, arts and crafts, and children's area. Call (401) 222-4133, or visit the Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission website for more information.

Historic Open House, Rumford, East Providence

1:00pm–4:00pm. John Hunt House, Hunts Mills Road. Tour the John Hunt House, learn city history with exhibits and artifacts. Admission: nonresidents, $3 per person; city residents, $1. Call (401) 438-1750 or visit the East Providence Historical Society website for more information.

Green Animals Children's Party, Portsmouth

Green Animals Topiary Garden, 380 Cory's Lane. Children and adults alike will enjoy music, clowns, carnival rides, pony rides, magicians and other performers, crafts, food, and lots more fun on the grounds of this legendary topiary garden overlooking Narragansett Bay. Call (401) 847-1000, or visit the Newport Mansions website for more information.

Fireworks on the Beach, Misquamicut, Westerly

Begins at 8:45pm. Westerly Town Beach, 365 Atlantic Avenue. Fireworks light the sky. Call (401) 322-1026 for more information.

Broad Street International Food Tour, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Cumberland

6:00pm–9:00pm. Broad Street. Explore the cultural diversity of Broad Street through weekly river tours, ethnic dining at restuarants, and live food demonstrations. This week: Colombian. $30 per person (excluding gratuity). Call (401) 724-2200, email info@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council website for more information.

North Garden Soiree I, Bristol

10:00am–4:00pm. Blithewold Mansion, Gardens, and Arboretum, 101 Ferry Road. Join us for wine, music, and flowers, and, as the boats race by, savor warm afternoon breezes and leisurely explore each garden at its peak. Each soire showcases wines from a different geographic region, music by local musicians, gourmet cheese and spectacular scenery. Call (401) 253-2707, or visit the Blithewold website for more information.

Providence Gallery Night, Providence

5:00pm–9:00pm. Various venues. Hop a free Art Bus and visit more than two dozen galleries, museums, and historic sites. Free parking at select locations. Call (401) 751-2628, or visit Gallery Night Providence for more information.

Black Ships Festival, Newport

Various venues. Celebration of the arts and culture of Japan to commemorate the historic achievements of Commodore Matthew C. Perry, USN, of Newport, who negotiated the first treaty between Japan and the United States. Demonstrations and workshops include origami, sushi-making, martial arts, Taiko drumming, and traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Call (401) 847-7666, or visit the Newport Events website for more information.

Hellenic Fest, Newport

Friday, 4pm-12am; Saturday, 12pm-12am; Sunday, 12pm-6pm. Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church, Thames and Brewer Streets. Enjoy authentic Greek food and desserts, Ouzo, Greek beer and wines, and talented musicians and folk dancers. Free admission. Call (401) 846-0555, or visit the Hellenic Fest website for more information.

South County Hot Air Balloon Festival, Kingston, South Kingstown

Athletic fields, University of Rhode Island, Route 138. Balloon Glow and concert Friday night; hot air balloon rides, crafts, food, artists, entertainment, car shows, Revolutionary War encampment, carnival. Call (401) 783-1770, or visit the South County Hot Air Balloon Festival website for more information.

Ultimate Lighthouse Tour, Providence

9:00am–4:00pm. Save the Bay Center, Fields Point, off Allens Avenue. Boat tour and lecture with Don Doucette and Dave Kelleher. Save the Bay members, $85; non-members, $100. Seating is limited and advance reservations are required. Call (401) 272-3540 x133, email rdatta@savebay.org, or visit the Save the Bay website to register or for more information.

Living History Program, Exeter

9:00am–5:00pm. Exeter Public Library, 773 Ten Rod Road (Route 102). The Battery B First Rhode Island Light Artillery presents an interactive Civil War encampment portraying an actual artillery unit during the American Civil War. Displays and demonstrations. Call (401) 294-4109, or visit the Exeter Public Library website for more information.

Things To Do In the Ocean State Expo, Lincoln

2:30pm–6:00pm. Twin River Event Center, 100 Twin River Road. This is an all ages, family event in the Twin River Event Center! Learn all of the wonderful activities the Ocean State has to offer with our interactive and entertaining exhibits. Call (401) 723-3200, or visit the Twin River website for more information.

Roger Williams Paddle, Rumford, East Providence

Begins at 10:30am. Freedom Green Park, North Broadway and Roger Williams Avenue. See a re-enactment of the last seven miles of the canoe trip that Rhode Island founder Roger Williams made in 1636 to land in Providence, across the Seekonk River. Call (401) 438-1750 or visit the East Providence Historical Society website for more information.

2nd Annual Blackstone River Theatre Celtic Festival, Cumberland

11:00am–7:00pm. Diamond Hill Park, Route 114. Five entertainment stages featuring Aoife Clancy and Robbie O'Connell, Paddy Keenan, Bua, Pendragon, Hanneke Cassel Trio, Atwater-Donnelly Trio, Aine Minogue, Trouz Bras, and more! Adults $15; seniors $10; children $5; kids under 5 free! Rain date July 22. Call (401)-725-9272, email russell@riverfolk.org, or visit the Blackstone River Theatre website for more information.

21st Annual Tiverton Arts and Artisan Festival, Tiverton Four Corners, Tiverton

10:00am–4:00pm. Meet around the Mill Pond, just south of Tiverton Four Corners, for fine art, pottery, demonstrations, food, music, and much more. Call (401) 624-8469, or visit the Tiverton Four Corners website for more information.

Ocean State Reggae Festival, Charlestown

12:00pm–9:30pm. Ninigret Park, Old Post Road (Route 1A). Awesome reggae music, good food, and free camping (with a two-day ticket) and on-site swimming; great family event. Rain or shine. Call (860) 536-9832, or visit the Ocean State Reggae Fest website for more information.

Rhode Island Indian Council Annual Powwow, Providence

10:00am–6:00pm. Temple to Music, Roger Williams Park. Call (401) 781-1098, or visit the Rhode Island Indian Council website for more information.

Eastern Rhode Island 4-H Country Fair, Portsmouth

Glen Park, Glen Road. Special events, pony rides, hay rides, children's games (daily, 1-3pm), animal shows, new amusements, milking contest, barrel train, carnival games, chicken BBQ (call in advance for tickets). Call (508) 971-2247, email hlm1373@yahoo.com, or visit the Eastern Rhode Island 4-H Country Fair website for more information.

Civil War Encampment, Cranston

Governor Sprague Mansion, 1351 Cranston Street. A Civil War encampment, with brief demonstrations, lectures and camp life, commemorates the first Battle of Bull Run, July 21, 1861. Flag raising ceremony at 1pm. Visit the Cranston Historical Society website for more information.

Fireworks on the Beach, Misquamicut, Westerly

Begins at 8:45pm. Westerly Town Beach, 365 Atlantic Avenue. Fireworks light the sky. Call (401) 322-1026 for more information.

Broad Street International Food Tour, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Cumberland

6:00pm–9:00pm. Broad Street. Explore the cultural diversity of Broad Street through weekly river tours, ethnic dining at restuarants, and live food demonstrations. This week: Portuguese. $30 per person (excluding gratuity). Call (401) 724-2200, email info@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council website for more information.

Bygone Buildings of North Kingstown, North Kingstown

7:00pm–8:15pm. North Kingstown Free Library, 100 Boone Street. Local historian Tim Cranston examines North Kingstown's most important sites that no longer exist, including the Phillips family's Mowbra Castle, the Rathbun Cider Press, and the Temple of Honor. We'll also examine the Parthenon Frieze that used to grace the walls of a Wickford Grammar School Classroom. Free, but space is limited and pre-registration is required. Call (401) 294-3306, email sberman@nklibrary.org, or visit the North Kingstown Free Library website for more information.

Concert under the Elms, Providence

6:30pm–8:00pm. John Brown House, Benefit and Power Streets. The Rhode Island Historical Society presents Pendragon, part of the society's summer concert series. Pendragon's music celebrates the lives and lore of generations of New Englanders who brought traditions from Ireland, Scotland, French Canada, and other distant shores to the banks of the Blackstone River. Adults, $8; Society members and children under twelve, free. Refreshments available for purchase. Visit the Blackstone River Theatre or RIHS websites for more information.

Blessing of the Fleet, Galilee, Narragansett

Great Island Road. A colorful parade of commercial and recreational watercraft is blessed by the Bishop with a group of distinguished clergymen and judged by state and local officials in five categories. Road race Friday at 6pm; Blessing of the Fleet Saturday at Noon; festival and rides throughout at Veterans Memorial Park. Call (401) 413-9801, or visit the Narragansett Lion's Club website for more information.

4th Annual Misquamicut Music Festival and Fireworks, Misquamicut, Westerly

Begins at 6:00pm. Misquamicut State Beach, Atlantic Avenue. Rain date July 27. Call (401) 322-1026, or visit the Misquamicut Business Association website for more information.

Rome Point Walking Tour, North Kingstown

10:00am–11:30am. North Kingstown Free Library, 100 Boone Street. Local historian Tim Cranston will lead this walking tour of the John H. Chafee Nature Preserve. Participants should wear sensible shoes and prepare for a strenuous walk. Free, but space is limited and pre-registration is required. Call (401) 294-3306, email sberman@nklibrary.org, or visit the North Kingstown Free Library website for more information.

Nathanael Greene: A Biography of the American Revolution, North Kingstown

2:00pm–3:00pm. North Kingstown Free Library, 100 Boone Street. Author Gerald Carbone drew on twenty-five years of research to chronicle Greene's rise to success and subsequent anonymity. Free, but space is limited and pre-registration is required. Call (401) 294-3306, email sberman@nklibrary.org, or visit the North Kingstown Free Library website for more information.

32nd Annual Citizens Bank/Save The Bay Swim, Newport and Jamestown

Begins at 6:00am. The Swim begins at the Naval Station in Newport and ends at Potter Cove in Jamestown (1.7 miles). Pledge dollars raised by swimmers help support Save the Bay advocacy, education, and habitat restoration. Call (401) 272-3540 x119, or visit the Save the Bay website to register or for more information.

Aquidneck Land Trust's Fiesta Verde 2008, Middletown

7:00pm–11:59pm. Newport Vineyards, 909 East Main Road. An Evening at the Farmer's Market; dinner, dancing and silent auction celebrating our island's local growers on an ALT conserved property. Call (401) 849-2799, or visit the Newport Vineyards website for more information.

Welcome Weekend at Smith-Appleby, Smithfield

10:00am–4:00pm. Smith-Appleby House Museum, 220 Stillwater Road. Tour one of the oldest houses still standing in Rhode Island. $4 per adult; members free. Call (401) 231-7363, or visit the Smith-Applebee House Museum website for more information.

Cultural Survival Bazaar, Tiverton Four Corners, Tiverton

10:00am–5:00pm. 3852 Main Road. A sensory celebration of the music, food, art, and crafts of indigenous groups from around the world. Free admission. Held rain or shine! Call (617) 441-5400 x21, or visit the Cultural Survival website for more information.

Rhode Island Monthly's Best of Rhode Island™ Party, Providence

6:00pm–9:00pm. Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset Street. You are invited to one of the year's most anticipated events as Rhode Island Monthly celebrates the 2008 Best of Rhode Island™ winners. Be the first to find out who you voted as the best in the state. Proceeds from the Best of Rhode Island™ benefit ArtReach, a local nonprofit organization supporting the visual and performing arts in local classrooms. Tickets, $50 per person. Call (401) 421-ARTS. Visit the Rhode Island Monthly website for more information.

Broad Street International Food Tour, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Cumberland

6:00pm–9:00pm. Broad Street. Explore the cultural diversity of Broad Street through weekly river tours, ethnic dining at restuarants, and live food demonstrations. This week: Chinese. $30 per person (excluding gratuity). Call (401) 724-2200, email info@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council website for more information.

Dunkin Donuts Newport Folk Festival, Newport

Fort Adams State Park, Ocean Drive. Enjoy the best in folk musical performances! Founded in 1959, the Newport Folk Festival is legendary for presenting well-known folk stars alongside the best new talents of the day. Call (401) 847-3700, or visit the Newport Folk Festival website for more information.

24th Annual Charlestown Chamber Seafood Festival, Charlestown

Ninigret Park, 4470 Old Post Road (Route 1A). A gastronomic extravaganza of Rhode Island's best seafood—lobster, steamers, chowder, fish and chips, clam cakes, corn on the cob, a raw bar, and more. Plus arts and crafts, amusement rides, rock climbing wall, children's shows, and classic car show. Call (401) 364-4031, or visit the Charlestown Chamber of Commerce website for more information.

WaterFire, Providence

Begins at dusk. Waterplace Park. Water, light, smoke, music, and street performers combine to form an elemental art experience. Free. Call (401) 272-3111, or visit the WaterFire website for more information.

75th Annual American Indian Federation Intertribal Powwow, Lafayette, North Kingstown

A.I.F. Hall and Grounds, 1 Indian Street. Call (401) 921-0507, email walkingturtle@hotmail.com, or visit the American Indian Federation website for more information.

Rhode Island International Film Festival, Providence

Various venues. Cited as one of the "Best International Film Festivals in the US," the Rhode Island International Film Festival is also the largest film festival in New England. Features film screenings, forums, a lifetime achievement award ceremony, and special events. Call (401) 861-4445, or visit the Rhode Island International Film Festival website for more information.

Broad Street International Food Tour, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Cumberland

6:00pm–9:00pm. Broad Street. Explore the cultural diversity of Broad Street through weekly river tours, ethnic dining at restuarants, and live food demonstrations. This week: Cape Verdean. $30 per person (excluding gratuity). Call (401) 724-2200, email info@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council website for more information.

Westerly Arts Night, Westerly

Artists Cooperative Gallery, 12 High Street. Downtown galleries and studios open in unison to exhibit new works. Call (401) 596-2221, or visit the Artists Cooperative Gallery website for more information.

2008 Providence Italian Festival, Providence

Waterplace Park. Celebrate Rhode Island's proud Itialian ethnic heritage with cultural arts, crafts, food, and entertainment, including special guest Al Martino in concert for two special shows. Call (401) 421-7740, or visit the City of Providence website for more information.

JVC Jazz Festival, Newport

Fort Adams State Park, Ocean Drive. Enjoy the very latest tunes by Jazz musicians! Call (401) 847-3700, or visit the Festival Productions website for more information.

2008 Cumberland Fest, Cumberland

Diamond Hill Park, Diamond Hill Road (Route 114). Enjoy family fun events featuring amusement rides, games, carnival, live music and entertainment, food court and other summertime activities. Call (401) 334-9996 for more information.

333rd Annual August Meeting/Green Corn Thanksgiving, Charlestown

Narragansett Church, Old Mill Road, (off Route 2). Cultural/traditional tribal activities. Call (401) 364-1100, (800) 287-4225, or visit the Narragansett Indian Tribe website for more information.

Block Island Arts Festival, Block Island

10:00am–5:00pm. Narragansett Inn, Ocean Avenue. Local and regional artists display and sell arts and crafts overlooking Great Salt Pond. Call (203) 878-2623, email catherinehamill@yahoo.com, or visit the Block Island Chamber of Commerce website for more information.

Newport Antiques Show, Middletown

10:00am–6:00pm. St. George's School, 372 Purgatory Road. A benefit for the Newport Historical Society and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Newport County, the glamorous annual Newport Antiques Show has something for everyone. Featuring an exclusive group of American and international dealers, and plenty of parking, this show is not to be missed! Call (401) 846-2669, or visit the Newport Antiques Show website for more information.

Victory Day, Statewide

Rhode Island is the only state that still celebrates the World War II surrender of Japan, which took place on August 14, 1945 (North American time). Formerly known as Victory Over Japan or VJ Day, the name has been shortened to reflect modern sensitivities. State and municipal offices are closed, and it's a holiday for employees of many Rhode Island businesses.

Broad Street International Food Tour, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Cumberland

6:00pm–9:00pm. Broad Street. Explore the cultural diversity of Broad Street through weekly river tours, ethnic dining at restuarants, and live food demonstrations. This week: Portuguese. $30 per person (excluding gratuity). Call (401) 724-2200, email info@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council website for more information.

Block Island Historical Society Annual House and Garden Tour, Block Island

9:00am–1:00pm. Block Island Historical Society, Old Town Road. Take an inside peek at some of the island's charming seaside homes and gardens. Call (401) 466-2481, or visit the Block Island Chamber of Commerce website for more information.

42nd Annual Washington County Fair, Carolina, Richmond

Washington County Fairgrounds, 78 Richmond Townhouse Road (Route 112). Rhode Island's largest agricultural fair! Country music concerts, a giant midway, animal shows, Grange and 4-H exhibits, crafts, children's games, and more. Call (401) 782-8139, or visit the Washington County Fair website for more information.

Newport Gallery Night, Newport

5:00pm–8:00pm. Various venues. Art exhibits at galleries include handblown glass, woodblock prints, award-winning photography, international handcrafts, and fine arts. Many of the galleries host opening receptions, and introduce artists and new exhibits on Gallery Night. Free admission to all galleries; free parking at Newport Visitors Information Center, 23 America's Cup Avenue, or Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Avenue. Call (401) 848-8200, or visit the Newport Art Galleries website for more information.

81st Annual Greek Festival, Pawtucket

Friday 5-10pm; Saturday 12-10pm; Sunday 12-9pm. Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, 97 Walcott Street. Come enjoy the best of Greece right here in Rhode Island! Traditional Greek foods and pastries. Shop for Greek imports in our indoor Agora. Dance to music of our live Greek band and enjoy the performances of our traditional Greek Dance Troupe wearing authentic ethnic costumes from Greece. Call (401) 725-3127, or visit the Annual Grecian Festival website for more information.

WaterFire, Providence

Begins at dusk. Waterplace Park. Water, light, smoke, music, and street performers combine to form an elemental art experience. Free. Call (401) 272-3111, or visit the WaterFire website for more information.

Clambake at the Rose Island Lighthouse, Rose Island, Newport

11:00am–3:30pm. The world's most trashless, bring-your-own-blanket-and-sit-on-the-ground clambake feast! Island fun for the whole family! Includes boat ride; tours of the lighthouse, fort, and wildlife refuge; plus games and prizes. Attendance limited; reservations required. Rain or shine. Call (401) 847-4242, email charlotte@roseisland.org, or visit the Rose Island Lighthouse website for more information.

Blithewold 2008 Gala: The Celebration of a Century, Bristol

10:00am–4:00pm. Blithewold Mansion, Gardens, and Arboretum, 101 Ferry Road. The Blithewold 2008 Gala will commemorate our Centennial year, and celebrate the rich history and uniqueness of Rhode Island's oldest arboretum. Call (401) 253-2707, or visit the Blithewold website for more information.

2nd Annual Summerfest Providence, Providence

Providence Piers, Allens Avenue. Family festival celebrates the culturally diverse music, art, and food of Rhode Island and the world. Call (401) 846-1600, or visit the Summerfest Providence website for more information.

Urkupina Festival, Providence

12:00pm–10:00pm. St. Patrick's Church, Smith Street. A Catholic mass is followed by a parade of dancers making their way to the Bank of America skating rink, all to honor the patron saint of Cochabamba, Bolivia.

Open House at Arnold House, Lincoln

11:00am–4:00pm. Eleazar Arnold House, 487 Great Road. Join a representative from Historic New England for a tour of this rarely-open seventeenth-century stone-ender. Visit the Historic New England website for more information.

Broad Street International Food Tour, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Cumberland

6:00pm–9:00pm. Broad Street. Explore the cultural diversity of Broad Street through weekly river tours, ethnic dining at restuarants, and live food demonstrations. This week: Mexican. $30 per person (excluding gratuity). Call (401) 724-2200, email info@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council website for more information.

North Garden Soiree II, Bristol

10:00am–4:00pm. Blithewold Mansion, Gardens, and Arboretum, 101 Ferry Road. Join us for wine, music, and flowers, and, as the boats race by, savor warm afternoon breezes and leisurely explore each garden at its peak. Each soire showcases wines from a different geographic region, music by local musicians, gourmet cheese and spectacular scenery. Call (401) 253-2707, or visit the Blithewold website for more information.

Gallery Night Providence, Providence

5:00pm–9:00pm. Various venues. Hop a free Art Bus and visit more than two dozen galleries, museums, and historic sites. Free parking at select locations. Call (401) 751-2628, or visit Gallery Night Providence for more information.

14th Annual Wine Tasting by the Sea, Westerly

6:00pm–8:00pm. Location TBA. Over one-hundred wines from all over the world will be showcased amongst cheese, fruit, and appetizers. Call (401) 596-7761, or visit the Westerly Chamber of Commerce website for more information.

Mystery Cookout and Demo Days, Exeter

11:00am–2:00pm. Ocean State Harley-Davidson Shop, 435 Nooseneck Hill Road (Route 3). Join us for a themed family barbecue and, while you're at it, test-drive a 2008 hog! The mystery is what will be cooking on the grill! Call (401) 392-1162, or visit the Ocean State Harley-Davidson website for more information.

Militia Days, Smithfield

10:00am–4:00pm. Smith-Appleby House Museum, 220 Stillwater Road. Before the Revolutionary War, colonists met regularly to practice their military skill and socialize with their friends and neighbors. Witness a tug-o-war and militia drill. Classic food favorites such as corn-on-the-cob, watermelon, and other light fare will be served at a nominal fee. Event is free; museum tours are $4 per adult for non-members. Call (401) 231-7363, or visit the Smith-Applebee House Museum website for more information.

Aquidneck Island Arts Festival, Newport

Newport Yachting Center, 4 Commercial Wharf. An exciting marketplace of fine and functional art, this juried show features a broad range of categories including pottery, woodworking, painting, photography, fiber arts, glasswork, jewelry, and much more. Live music, demonstrations, children's activities, food. All proceeds benefit non-profit agency Looking Upwards. Call (401) 847-0960 x25, or visit the Looking Upwards website for more information.

11th Annual Rhode Island Abenaki Four Winds Inter-Tribal Powwow, Bristol

Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm. Colt State Park, Route 114. Call (401) 943-7752, or visit the PowwowSchedule website for more information.

11th Annual Rhythm and Roots Festival, Charlestown

Ninigret Park, 4813 Old Post Road (Route 1A). Annual roots musical festival with blues, New Orleans R&B, Cajun, Zydeco, Swing, etc. Features two huge dance floors, four music stages, dance lessons, food vendors, kids activities, evening dances, instrument instruction, and more. Named one of the top one hundred events in North America for 2007 by the American Bus Association! Call (888) 855-6940, email office@rhythmandroots.com, or visit the Rhythm and Roots Festival website for tickets and more information.

WaterFire, Providence

Begins at dusk. Waterplace Park. Water, light, smoke, music, and street performers combine to form an elemental art experience. Free. Call (401) 272-3111, or visit the WaterFire website for more information.

11th Annual Newport Waterfront Irish Festival, Newport

11:00am–6:00pm. Newport Yachting Center, 4 Commercial Wharf. Experience the Emerald Isle in the City by the Sea. This three-day community event celebrates Irish music, culture, cuisine and crafts. Call (401) 846-1600, or visit the Newport Waterfront Festivals website for more information.

2008 Pawtucket Arts Festival, Pawtucket

Citywide. Showcase of visual and performing arts includes Chinese dragon boat races, Slater Mill Fun Fest, Slater Park Festival, Festival Gala, Downtown Festival, Stone Soup music, artist studios, interactive workshops, music, theater and dance performances, and more! Call (401) 724-5200, email diane@pawtucketartsfestival.org, or visit the Pawtucket Arts Festival website for more information.

8th Annual Chinese Dragon Boat Races and Taiwan Day Festival, Pawtucket

8:00am–5:00pm. School Street Pier, off Route 114. Celebrate Asian heritage and culture with this annual event featuring unique and colorful Chinese Dragon Boats in a day long rowing competition on the Pawtucket River. Plus Asian arts, music, dance, crafts, and kite flying on the pier. Call (401) 724-2200, email info@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Chinese Dragon Boat Races website for more information.

Newport Gallery Night, Newport

5:00pm–8:00pm. Various venues. Art exhibits at galleries include handblown glass, woodblock prints, award-winning photography, international handcrafts, and fine arts. Many of the galleries host opening receptions, and introduce artists and new exhibits on Gallery Night. Free admission to all galleries; free parking at Newport Visitors Information Center, 23 America's Cup Avenue, or Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Avenue. Call (401) 848-8200, or visit the Newport Art Galleries website for more information.

Clambake and Cocktail Party, Tiverton

Pardon Gray Preserve, Main Road (Route 117). Call (401) 625-1300, email info@tivertonlandtrust.org, or visit the Tiverton Land Trust website for more information.

Lincoln and Sprague, Cranston

Sprague Mansion, 1351 Cranston Street. Join the Cranston Historical Society in celebrating two historical events: Lincoln's 1830 visit to Rhode Island, and Governor Sprague's 1830 birthday. A highlight of the day will be our special guest Mackenzie Melemed, who will honor the Governor by playing the "Governor Sprague March" on the mansion's Grand Centennial Piano. Visit the Cranston Historical Society website for more information.

Pardon Gray Day, Tiverton

10:00am–4:00pm. Pardon Gray Preserve, Main Road (Route 117). Call (401) 625-1300, email info@tivertonlandtrust.org, or visit the Tiverton Land Trust website for more information.

WaterFire, Providence

Begins at dusk. Waterplace Park. Water, light, smoke, music, and street performers combine to form an elemental art experience. Free. Call (401) 272-3111, or visit the WaterFire website for more information.

The Seventh RI Infantry in the Civil War, Barrington

Begins at 7:30pm. Barrington Public Library, 281 County Road. Suffering a casualty rate of more than eighty percent by the war's end, the 7th Rhode Island Infantry participated in some of the fiercest battles of the Civil War. Local author Robert Grandchamp will talk about gripping historical stories culled from firsthand sources such as letters, diaries, and photographs. Free and open to all. Call (401) 247-1920, or visit the Barrington Public Library website for more information.

Gallery Night Providence, Providence

5:00pm–9:00pm. Various venues. Hop a free Art Bus and visit more than two dozen galleries, museums, and historic sites. Free parking at select locations. Call (401) 751-2628, or visit Gallery Night Providence for more information.

WaterFire (partial lighting), Providence

Begins at dusk. Waterplace Park. Water, light, smoke, music, and street performers combine to form an elemental art experience. Free. Call (401) 272-3111, or visit the WaterFire website for more information.

The Seventh Rhode Island Infantry in the Civil War, North Kingstown

7:00pm–8:15pm. North Kingstown Free Library, 100 Boone Street. Suffering a casualty rate of more than eighty percent by the war's end, the 7th Rhode Island Infantry participated in some of the fiercest battles of the Civil War. Local author Robert Grandchamp will talk about gripping historical stories culled from firsthand sources such as letters, diaries, and photographs. Talk is free, but seating is limited, so call the library at (401) 294-3306 x3 to pre-register, or for more information.

WaterFire (partial lighting), Providence

Begins at dusk. Waterplace Park. Water, light, smoke, music, and street performers combine to form an elemental art experience. Free. Call (401) 272-3111, or visit the WaterFire website for more information.

WaterFire, Providence

Begins at dusk. Waterplace Park. Water, light, smoke, music, and street performers combine to form an elemental art experience. Free. Call (401) 272-3111, or visit the WaterFire website for more information.

2nd Annual North Smithfield Great Pumpkin Festival, North Smithfield

North Smithfield High School, junction of Routes 5 and 104. Enjoy this townwide community and family fun event to usher in the autumn season! Meet with local non-profit groups active in town, see family oriented entertainment, and participate in themed activities. Call (401) 767-2200, or visit the Town of North Smithfield website for more information.

Open House at Arnold House, Lincoln

11:00am–4:00pm. Eleazar Arnold House, 487 Great Road. Join a representative from Historic New England for a tour of this rarely-open seventeenth-century stone-ender. Visit the Historic New England website for more information.

31st Annual Rhode Island Heritage Festival, Providence

12:00pm–6:00pm. State House, South Lawn. Celebrate our state's multi-cultural diversity with live ethnic entertainment on stage, food, educational booths, and parade of nations. Free. Rain date August 26. Call (401) 222-4133 or (401) 222-4137, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission website for more information.

Circle of Wisdom Metis Powwow, Lincoln

Chase Farm, Great Road. Event celebrating Native American cultures and traditions. Call 401-333-1100, or email eaglecries100@aol.com for more information.

Newport Mansions Wine and Food Festival, Newport

Rosecliff and Marble House, Belleve Avenue. This three-day celebration of food and wine includes a Grand Tasting, restaurant wine dinners, seminars, cooking demonstration, auctions, and a special evening of wine, food, and dancing at Rosecliff. Call (401) 847-1000, or visit the Newport Mansions website for more information.

WaterFire, Providence

Begins at dusk. Waterplace Park. Water, light, smoke, music, and street performers combine to form an elemental art experience. Free. Call (401) 272-3111, or visit the WaterFire website for more information.

20th Annual Taste of Rhode Island, Newport

Newport Yachting Center, 4 Commercial Wharf. Fine Food, Fine Wine, and Living Well—this phrase sums up what it means to be from Rhode Island. The Taste of Rhode Island offers the best Rhode Island has to offer with some of the state's finest cuisine, arts, and culture. Call (401) 846-1600, or visit the Newport Waterfront Festivals website for more information.

Great Swamp Massacre Commemoration, South Kingstown

Great Swamp Monument Road, off Route 2. Call (401) 364-1100, or visit the Narragansett Indian Tribe website for more information.

Glocester Heritage Day, Chepachet, Glocester

9:00am–4:00pm. Main Street. Enjoy day-long events, local heritage, and special activities; arts, crafts, antiques, and more. Call (401) 568-1866, or visit the Glocester Heritage Society website for more information.

Open House at Clemence-Irons House, Johnston

11:00am–4:00pm. 38 George Waterman Road. Join a representative from Historic New England for a tour of this rarely-open seventeenth-century stone-ender. Visit the Historic New England website for more information.

2008 Pawtucket Winter Wonderland, Pawtucket

4:00pm–8:00pm. Slater Memorial Park, Newport Avenue and Armistice Boulevard. See 400 decorated Christmas trees, twenty Victorian buildings, and a talking snowman, and enjoy free visits and photos with Santa, train rides, hay rides, carousel rides, food court, and entertainment. Free admission and parking. Call (401) 726-3185, email santa1@localnet.com, or visit the Pawtucket Winter Wonderland website for more information.

Block Island Census, Block Island

Albion Pub, Ocean Avenue. Everyone on-island overnight will be counted! Call (401) 466-2747, or visit the Block Island Chamber of Commerce website for more information.

Victory Day, Statewide

Rhode Island is the only state that still celebrates the World War II surrender of Japan, which took place on August 14, 1945 (North American time). Formerly known as Victory Over Japan or VJ Day, the name has been shortened to reflect modern sensitivities. State and municipal offices are closed, and it's a holiday for employees of many Rhode Island businesses.

Hatch is sprung, Morgantown, West Virginia

Federal Corrections Institutions. Survivor winner Richard Hatch, convicted of tax evasion in 2006, is scheduled to be booted off the island, er, released from prison today.