Quahog.org

February 7, 2010: Dramatic Reading: The Great Gatsby, Newport

2:00pm-4:00pm. Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Avenue. Join actors from Warren's Second Story Theatre who will present a staged reading from F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel. Advance registration is requested. Call (401) 847-1000 x154, or visit the Newport Mansions (www.newportmansions.org) website for more information.

February 7, 2010: What's in a Name: Biblical Origins of Plantations in the Colony of Rhode Island, Bristol

Starts at 2:00pm. Linden Place, 500 Hope Street. Join us for a presentation by RIEDC executive director Keith Stokes, who will attempt to shed some historical light on the recent and ongoing debate over the inclusion of the word "Plantations" in Rhode Island's official name. Free. Linden Place Museum will also be open for free guided tours from 12-2pm. Call (401) 253-0390, or visit the Linden Place (www.lindenplace.org) website for more information.

February 8, 2010: A Lincoln Portrait: A One Man Performance, Warwick

7:00pm-8:15pm. Warwick Public Library, 600 Sandy Lane. Join us for a one-man performance by acclaimed actor Robb Dimmick as the Great Emancipator. Registration requested. Call (401) 739-5440 x126, or visit the Warwick Public Library (www.warwicklibrary.org) website for more information.

February 10, 2010: Blackstone Valley Culinaria Secret Ingredient Food Tour, Woonsocket

6:00pm-8:00pm. Vintage, 2 South Main Street. Meet the chef and learn how to make Sweet Potato Gnocchis. These gnocchis are prepared with sauteed fennel, roasted red peppers and spinach in a brandy creme sauce. $19.50 per person; reservations required. Call (401) 724-2200, email donna@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council (www.tourblackstone.com) website for more information.

February 10, 2010: Narragansett Bay Shipping: A View From the Shore, Jamestown

7:00pm-8:30pm. Jamestown Philomenian Library, 26 North Road. For the last two years, Rod Smith has documented the many ships that come up and down the bay with stunning photographs which he then publishes on his website narragansettbayshipping.com (www.narragansettbayshipping.com). Call 401) 423-0025, email rscssmith2@cox.net, or visit the Jamestown Philomenian Library website for more information.

February 11, 2010: 2nd Annual I Heart Providence, Providence

6:00pm-8:00pm. Providence City Hall, 25 Dorrance Street. Bring the love! In celebration of Valentine's Day there'll be complimentary hors d'oeuvres, cash bar, and a surprise group art project! And staffers from Quahog.org will be on hand to chat about the city's history. Email Mike@ConnectProvidence.org, or visit the Connect Providence (connectprovidence.org) website for more information.

February 12, 2010: Ghost Tour with Harle Tinney, Newport

Starts at 4:45pm. Belcourt Castle, 657 Bellevue Avenue. The Ghosts of Belcourt Castle are back by popular demand! Join mansion owner Harle Tinney for a ninety-minute tour of the lavish home that Ghost Hunters found "definitely haunted." $18 per person, all ages cash or credit card at the door; reservations suggested. Call (401) 846-0669, or visit the Belcourt Castle (www.belcourtcastle.com) website for more information.

February 12, 2010: Lantern Tour of Colonial Newport, Newport

Starts at 4:30pm. The Museum and Shop at Brick Market, 127 Thames Street. Be transported back to the heyday of this thriving colonial metropolis on a seventy-five-minute lantern-lit stroll through the Historic Hill. $12 per person; $10 with Newport Winter Festival button. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport Historical Society (www.newporthistorical.org) website for more information.

February 12, 2010: A Lincoln Portrait: A One Man Performance, Providence

Starts at 6:45pm. First Baptist Church in America, 75 North Main Street. Robb Dimmick returns in his tour de force reenactment following his sold-out appearance last year. Registration requested. Call (401) 724-2200, email donna@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council (www.tourblackstone.com) website for more information.

February 12-21, 2010: Discover Colonial Newport Walking Tour, Newport

Starts at 10:30am. The Museum and Shop at Brick Market, 127 Thames Street. Hear stories of revolution and ruin, struggles for religious liberty, and remarkable entrepreneurship among Newport's diverse people on a seventy-five-minute walking tour through Colonial Newport. $12 per person; $10 with Newport Winter Festival button. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport Historical Society (www.newporthistorical.org) website for more information.

February 13, 2010: 18th Annual Cajun and Zydeco Mardi Gras Ball, Cranston

6:00pm-11:59pm. Rhodes-on-the-Pawtuxet, 60 Rhodes Place. New England's only authentic Louisiana Mardi Gras celebration features four Cajun and Zydeco bands, Cajun and Creole food, and non-stop dancing. Costume optional with prizes for best dressed. Call (401) 783-3926, or visit the Lagniappe Productions (www.mardigrasri.com) website for more information.

February 13, 2010: Family History Hunt, Newport

Starts at 11:00am. The Museum and Shop at Brick Market, 127 Thames Street. Test your knowledge of historic Newport on a history hunt in and around Washington Square. This twenty question family-friendly hunt covers colonial Newport sites and trivia. Maps: $3 per family; $1 with Newport Winter Festival button; free for Newport Historical Society members. Purchase maps at the Museum and Shop. First five submissions with correct answers win prizes; one prize per family. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport Historical Society (www.newporthistorical.org) website for more information.

February 13, 2010: Tour the Colony House, Newport

11:00am-2:00pm. Colony House, Washington Square. Tour the 1739 Colony House, built to house Rhode Island government meetings. Tours include viewing of an original Gilbert Stuart portrait of George Washington. $5 per person; $4 with Newport Winter Festival button; free for Newport Historical Society members. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport Historical Society (www.newporthistorical.org) website for more information.

February 13, 2010: Tastes of the Working Waterfront History Walking Tour, Newport

Starts at 11:30am. NRF Museum Store, 415 Thames Street. Taste, touch and smell your way through history on this one-and-a-half hour walking tour along Lower Thames while learning about the sailors, merchants and immigrants who lived and worked there. $12 per person; $10 with Newport Winter Festival button. Call (401) 324-6111, or visit the Newport History Tours (www.newporthistorytours.org) website for more information.

February 13, 2010: Ghost Tours, Newport

5:00pm-6:30pm. Belcourt Castle, 657 Bellevue Avenue. Miss Virginia Smith, world traveler, presents a lecture with slides explaining the types of ghosts, and where they have been seen. Joined by Harle Tinney, she tours Belcourt Castle telling about the spirits of the castle, and gives a live demonstration of haunted salt chairs. Space is limited; reservations requested. Call (401) 846-0669, or visit the Belcourt Castle (www.belcourtcastle.com) website for more information.

February 13-14, 2010: 2nd Annual 100 Years of Romance, Warwick

12:00pm-4:00pm. Clouds Hill Victorian House Museum, 4157 Post Road. Spend time together viewing the display of wedding gowns from 1880s to 1980s, against the back-drop of a one of Rhode Island's hidden treasures. Beautiful architecture, interior design, and furnishings—something for everyone to enjoy! Admission $15 per person, or $20 per couple. Call (401) 884-9490, or visit the Clouds Hill (www.cloudshill.org) website for more information.

February 14, 2010: Hiking the North South Trail, Section One, Lincoln

Starts at 8:00am. Blackstone Valley Outfitters, 25 Carrington Street. The first section of the hike will start at the Atlantic Ocean on East Beach and hike into the Burlingame Wildlife Management Area. Distance: 6.5 miles. Cost: $10; preregistration and blaze orange required. Call (401) 312-0369, email don@bvori.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Outfitters (www.bvori.com) website for more information.

February 14, 2010: Ranger Days, Woonsocket

1:30pm-2:30pm. Museum of Work and Culture, Market Square. Civil War re-enactors and Museum volunteers Paul and Denise Bourget will relate the stories of Brigadier General George Sears Greene, a native Rhode Islander and forgotten hero of Gettysburg, and Mary Jane Safford, M.D., best known for her nursing efforts on the battlefield. Free. Call (401) 769-9675, email rbacon@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

February 15, 2010: Tour the Colony House, Newport

February 15, 2010: Pirates and Scoundrels History Walking Tour, Newport

Starts at 11:30am. Colony House, Washington Square. See where scoundrels lived, where pirates profited, and where criminals were put on trial and punished. Find out why this colony was sometimes known as "Rogue's Island." $12 per person; $10 with Newport Winter Festival button. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport Historical Society (www.newporthistorical.org) website for more information.

February 15, 2010: Children's Activity at the Colony House, Newport

1:00pm-2:00pm. Colony House, Washington Square. Meet a historical interpreter portraying Polly Wanton, a young woman who lived in Newport during the Revolutionary War. Polly will discuss winter life, including daily tasks and fashion. Children can make an eighteenth century-style cap or tricorn hat to take home. $3 per child; $2 with Newport Winter Festival button. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport Historical Society (www.newporthistorical.org) website for more information.

February 16, 2010: Old House ABCs History Walking Tour, Newport

Museum and Shop at Brick Market, 127 Thames Street. From the seventeenth century architectural style to the nineteenth century Victorian splendor, learn the ABCs of architecture in this exquisitely preserved city on a seventy-five-minute walking tour. $12 per person; $10 with Newport Winter Festival button. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport History Tours (www.newporthistorytours.org) website for more information.

February 16, 2010: 3rd Annual Chocolate Festival, Smithfield

East Smithfield Public Library, 50 Esmond Street. Come and join us as we enjoy a variety of chocolate-related games. We will also be dipping fruit in chocolate, sampling chocolate drinks, and doing other things related to chocolate. Ages 12 and up. Space is limited; please register. Call (401) 231-5150 for more information.

February 17, 2010: Newport's Other Summer Colony Historical Walking Tour, Newport

Starts at 11:30am. Museum and Shop at Brick Market, 127 Thames Street. Explore the lives of Newport's forgotten nineteenth-century intellectuals, artists, scientists, and more on a ninety-minute walking tour through the Catherine and Old Beach Road neighborhoods. $12 per person; $10 with Newport Winter Festival button. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport History Tours (www.newporthistorytours.org) website for more information.

February 18, 2010: Lafayette in America in 1824 and 1825, Newport

Starts at 6:00pm. Redwood Library and Athenaeum, 50 Bellevue Avenue. Alan R. Hoffman speaks about and signs his 2008 unabridged English translation of Auguste Levasseur's 1829 work. Free. Call for (401) 847-0292, email jgordon@redwoodlibrary.org, or visit the Redwood Library (www.redwoodlibrary.org) website for more information.

February 18, 2010: Ghost Tours, Newport

February 18, 2010: Newport's Buried History: Slavery and Freedom History Walking Tour, Newport

Starts at 11:30am. Museum and Shop at Brick Market, 127 Thames Street. Listen to stories about Newport's people of color, enslaved and free. Visit the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House and the colonial African burying ground on a ninety-minute walking tour. $12 per person; $10 with Newport Winter Festival button. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport History Tours (www.newporthistorytours.org) website for more information.

February 18, 2010: George Washington: Lessons in Leadership, Providence

6:00pm-8:00pm. Aldrich House, 110 Benevolent Street. In anticipation of George Washington's Birthday on the 22nd, we welcome author Gerald Carbone to speak on his new book Washington: Lessons in Leadership. Books will be available for purchase and signing after the lecture. Call (401) 331-8575 x45, email programs@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

February 18, 2010: History of Crescent Park, Riverside, East Providence

6:30pm-8:00pm. Riverside Branch Library, 475 Bullocks Point Avenue. Join us for a presentation by Ed Serowik, "Mr. Crescent Park" and Riverside local. Call (401) 433-4877, email mbonds@eastprovidencelibrary.org, or visit the Riverside Branch Library (www.eastprovidencelibrary.org/riverside.html) website for more information.

February 18, 2010: Dressing Up Daisy: The facts behind the fiction of fashion in The Great Gatsby, Newport

11:00am-12:30pm. Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Avenue. A lecture by Rebecca Kelly, assistant conservator at the Museum of Fashion Institute of Technology. Advance registration is requested. Call (401) 847-1000 x154, or visit the Newport Mansions (www.newportmansions.org) website for more information.

February 19, 2010: Tastes of the Working Waterfront History Walking Tour, Newport

February 19, 2010: Lantern Tour of Colonial Newport, Newport

February 19, 2010: Ghost Tour with Harle Tinney, Newport

February 19-20, 2010: Special Floral-Themed Tours at the John Brown House Museum, Providence

10:30am-5:00pm. John Brown House, 52 Power Street. This weekend the John Brown House Museum will be offering special museum tours with a floral theme. Tours begin at 10:30am, 12 noon, 1:30pm, and 3pm. Free for members; special tour price for non-members, $5. Call (401) 273-7507 x62, email bbarnes@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for hours and tickets.

February 20, 2010: Fashionable Folks: Hairstyles 1840-1900, Newport

Starts at 3:00pm. Colony House, Washington Square. From Adam Lambert's spikes to Amy Winehouse's piled-high beehive, today's fashionable hairstyles may seem new and unique, but many are actually rooted in history. In this lecture author Maureen Taylor uses old photographs to show how hairstyles and facial hair changed throughout the nineteenth century. $5 per person; $4 with Newport Winter Festival button. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport Historical Society (www.newporthistorical.org) website for more information.

February 20, 2010: Quidnessett Slideshow, North Kingstown

2:00pm-3:30pm. North Kingstown Free Library, 100 Boone Street. Join local historian Tim Cranston as he takes a look at the remarkable history of this area of North Kingstown. Free, but please register. Call (401) 294-3306, email nkiref@nklibrary.org, or visit the North Kingstown Free Library (www.nklibrary.org) website for more information.

February 20, 2010: Pirates and Scoundrels History Walking Tour, Newport

February 20, 2010: Tour the Colony House, Newport

February 20, 2010: 9th Annual Pizza Cook-Off, Newport

12:00pm-3:00pm. Hyatt Regency Newport, One Goat Island. Area restaurants compete to see who makes the best pizza. Sample and vote for your favorite. Categories include, "Best Cheese" and "Best Specialty." Adults, $10; children 3-10, $7; $2 off with Winter Festival button. Pizza Express free shuttle from downtown Newport. Call (401) 848-7666, or visit the Newport Winter Festival (www.newportwinterfestival.com) website for more information.

February 20, 2010: Book Love: A History of Bound Books and their Care, Providence

10:00am-12:00pm. RIHS Library, 121 Hope Street. Part two of our Preservation Series, RIHS Printed Collection Librarian Phoebe S. Bean will present an illustrated discussion on how to best care for your books for long-term preservation. $12, $8 for members; limited to 15; registration required. Call (401) 273-8107 x12, email reference@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

February 21, 2010: Dramatic Reading: The Great Gatsby, Newport

2:00pm-4:00pm. Newport Public Library, 300 Spring Street. Join actors from Warren's Second Story Theatre who will present a staged reading from F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel. Advance registration is requested. Call (401) 847-8720 x100, email info@newportlibraryri.org, or visit the Newport Public Library (www.newportlibraryri.org) website for more information.

February 21, 2010: Jon Campbell and Everett Brown, Jamestown

3:00pm-4:30pm. Jamestown Philomenian Library, 26 North Road. Guitarist Campbell, accompanied by fiddler Brown, shares his unique songs and stories of fishing and fishermen along the New England Coast. Call (401) 846-0813, email janeb70@cox.net, or visit the Jamestown Philomenian Library (www.jamestownri.com/library) website for more information.

February 21, 2010: 2nd Annual 100 Years of Romance, Warwick

1:00pm-4:00pm. Clouds Hill Victorian House Museum, 4157 Post Road. Spend time together viewing the display of wedding gowns from 1880s to 1980s, against the back-drop of a one of Rhode Island's hidden treasures. Beautiful architecture, interior design, and furnishings—something for everyone to enjoy! Admission $15 per person, or $20 per couple. Call (401) 884-9490, or visit the Clouds Hill (www.cloudshill.org) website for more information.

February 22, 2010: Celebrating Women's Struggles, Woonsocket

Museum of Work and Culture, Market Square. Learn the cultural history of the labor movement, and the struggles and achievements of women in the movement, as captured in a variety of labor union posters from around the world. Exhibit runs through April 30. Call (401) 769-9675, email rbacon@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

February 24, 2010: Rediscovery of the Blanchard Family Burial Ground, Johnston

Starts at 7:00pm. Elijah Angell House, 101 Putnam Pike. Following the regular monthly meeting of the Johnston Historical Society, Joseph Waller from the Public Archeology Lab will talk about the rediscovery, exhumation, and relocation of a historical cemetery. Free and open to the public. Call (401) 231-3380, email info@johnstonhistorical.org, or visit the Johnston Historical Society (www.johnstonhistorical.org) website for more information.

February 24, 2010: Blackstone Valley Culinaria Secret Ingredient Food Tour, Woonsocket

6:00pm-8:00pm. Colonial Bakery, 185 Broad Street. Come in from the cold and watch a demonstration of Portuguese rice pudding and doughboys. Warm up to the variety of scrumptious European pastries and enjoy an assortment of hot beverages—espresso, hot chocolate, International coffees, and teas. $19.50 per person; reservations required. Call (401) 724-2200, email donna@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council (www.tourblackstone.com) website for more information.

February 27, 2010: Climb Providence, Providence

9:00am-3:00pm. 1 Financial Plaza. Climb all fifty-eight flights of stairs of this twenty-nine floor building and raise some money for the American Lung Association while you're at it. $35 registration fee; $100 additional fundraising due on the day of the climb. Visit the Climb of Your Life (www.climbofyourlife.org) website for more information.

February 27, 2010: Winter Chili Festival, Providence

11:00am-6:00pm. Rhode Island Convention Center, 1 Sabin Street. Sample from a delicious variety of chili recipes prepared by local and regional chefs showcased in the People's Choice competition, plus competitions, demonstrations, and chili market. Call (401) 458-6000, or visit the Rhode Island Winter Chili Festival (www.chili-festival.com) website for more information.

February 28, 2010: Ranger Days, Woonsocket

1:30pm-2:30pm. Museum of Work and Culture, Market Square. Janice Farnham will discuss the role of Catholic education in the Blackstone Valley. Farnham, a nun and native of Woonsocket, has taught many years in the area schools. Her presentation will examine the arrival and evolution of Catholic education and its impact. Free. Call (401) 769-9675, email rbacon@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

February 28, 2010: Hiking the North South Trail, Section Two, Lincoln

Starts at 8:00am. Blackstone Valley Outfitters, 25 Carrington Street. The second section of the hike will start where we left off at Buckeye Brook Road in the Burlingame Wildlife Management Area and continue through the Shumunkanuc Hill area to Meadow Brook Pond. Distance: 6 miles. Cost: $10; preregistration and blaze orange required. Call (401) 312-0369, email don@bvori.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Outfitters (www.bvori.com) website for more information.

March 3, 2010: Westerly Arts Stroll, Westerly

5:00pm-8:00pm. Artists Cooperative Gallery, 7 Canal Street. Downtown galleries and studios open in unison to exhibit new works. Call (401) 596-2221, or visit the Artists Cooperative Gallery (www.westerlyarts.com) website for more information.

March 4, 2010: What Made the '20s Roar: The music and times of the Gatsby Era, Newport

6:00pm-8:00pm. Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Avenue. Boston-based jazz group "Made in the Shade" will explore the early jazz that was the first truly American music. The group will include music and information about flappers, the AABA song form, blues, ragtime, boogie woogie, and Dixieland. Advance registration is requested. Call (401) 847-1000 x154, or visit the Newport Mansions (www.newportmansions.org) website for more information.

March 4, 2010: Origins of Tennis, Newport

Starts at 6:00pm. International Tennis Hall of Fame, 194 Bellevue Avenue. Special screening of a forty-minute film produced for the Tennis Channel showcasing the origins of tennis and court tennis. Local members and the courts at the National Tennis Club, the court tennis facility at the Tennis Hall of Fame, are featured in the film. A panel discussion with the filmmaker will follow. Call (401) 849-3990, or visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame (www.tennisfame.com) website for more information.

March 4, 2010: Special Advanced Screening of Hachi: A Dog's Story, Woonsocket

Starts at 7:30pm. Stadium Theatre Performing Arts Centre, 28 Monument Square. The local debut of the Richard Gere film that was principally photographed in Woonsocket, Bristol, Providence, and on the Kingston URI campus. Free. Call (401) 762-4545, email rifilm@arts.ri.gov, or visit the Stadium Theatre (www.stadiumtheatre.com) website for more information.

March 4-7, 2010: Kinsale Ireland Festival of Fine Food, Newport

Citywide. Visiting chefs from Newport's sister city, Kinsale, will partner with top chefs from Newport to offer traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine on special menus throughout Newport. A highlight of the weekend will be the traditional Irish Brunch on Sunday featuring a hearty Irish spread and entertainment including Irish step dancers and Celtic story tellers. Call (401) 845-9123 or (800) 976-5122, jbailey@GoNewport.com, or visit GoNewport.com (www.gonewport.com) for more information.

March 6, 2010: St. Patrick's Day Parade, Pawtucket

Starts at 12:00pm. The city kicks off its celebration of Irish heritage in Rhode Island and the Blackstone Valley with the always festive and colorful parade. Parade steps off from Division Street and Columbus Avenue, travels along Walcott Street to Main Street, and ends at City Hall on Roosevelt Avenue. Parade reception follows. Call (401) 728-0500 x281, or visit the City of Pawtucket (www.pawtucketri.com) website for more information.

March 6, 2010: Hidden History of Rhode Island: Not-to-be-Forgotten Tales of the Ocean State, Pawtucket

1:00pm-2:30pm. Pawtucket Public Library, 13 Summer Street. Join author Glenn Laxton for this special Friends of the Pawtucket Public Library author/book signing program. Mr. Laxton's new book is filled with surprising tales and unexpected anecdotes that color Rhode Island's legacy. Free. Call (401) 725-3714 x231, email ejeffers@pawtucketlibrary.org, or visit the Pawtucket Public Library (web.provlib.org/pawlib) website for more information.

March 6, 2010: Ocean State Follies, Warwick

A talented cast of five use song, parodies, skits, and audience interaction to poke fun at and celebrate the great state of Rhode Island. Reservations required. Visit the Ocean State Follies (www.oceanstatefollies.com) website for more information.

March 7, 2010: Hiking the North South Trail, Section Three, Lincoln

Starts at 8:00am. Blackstone Valley Outfitters, 25 Carrington Street. We will be continuing our trek north from Alton Carolina Road hiking through the Carolina Wildlife management Area to Richmond School on Route 138. Distance: 7 miles. Cost: $10; preregistration and blaze orange required. Call (401) 312-0369, email don@bvori.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Outfitters (www.bvori.com) website for more information.

March 10, 2010: Rhode Island State Parks System History, Lincoln

Starts at 7:00pm. North Gate Toll House, 1873 Old Louisquisset Pike (Route 246). Presentation by historian Al Klyberg on the history of the Rhode Island State Parks System, established in 1909. Free and open to the public. Call (401) 725-2847, or email bvhs58@gmail.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Historical Society (blackstonevalleyhistoricalsociety.org) website for more information.

March 13, 2010: Maple Sugar Thanksgiving, Exeter

1:00pm-4:00pm. Tomaquag Indian Memorial Museum, 390 Summit Road. Celebrate the harvest of the maple sap. Enjoy storytelling, ceremony, native song and dance, and sampling of foods and drinks that include maple syrup. Call (401) 539-7213 or (401) 491-9063, email lorenspears@tomaquagmuseum.com, or visit the Tomaquag Museum (www.tomaquagmuseum.com) website for more information.

March 13, 2010: Ocean State Follies, Narragansett

March 13, 2010: 54th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade!, Newport

Starts at 11:00am. Parade begins at City Hall, 43 Broadway, and continues through Washington Square to Thames Street and ends at Augustine's Church. Find your best green attire, keep your eyes open for leprechauns, and join in the revelry to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Newport! Call (401) 845-9123 or (800) 976-5122, or visit GoNewport.com (www.gonewport.com) for more information.

March 13, 2010: 3rd Annual Irish and Italian Feast, Cranston

5:00pm-8:30pm. Woodridge United Church of Christ, 546 Budlong Road. Celebrate Saints Patrick and Joseph while enjoying traditional Irish and Italian dishes including corned beef and cabbage, pasta and meatballs, and more! Live entertainment! Two seatings, 5pm and 7pm; reservations are strongly recommended; a limited number of tickets will be sold at the door. Adults, $10; seniors and children 3-12, $8. Call (401) 942-0662, email feast@woodridgechurchriucc.com, or visit the Woodridge Church (www.uccwebsites.net/woodridgecongcranstonri.html) website for more information.

March 13, 2010: Maple Sugaring Tours, Coventry

Starts at 9:00am. George B. Parker Woodland, 1670 Maple Valley Road. Step back in time and experience the history of maple sugaring. Taste this delectable treat over breakfast of pancakes, muffins and donuts, and learn how to make this sweet syrup in your own back yard. Tours every fifteen minutes. Society members $10-$5; non-members $15-$8. Pre-registration is required. Call (401) 949-5454 x3041, email programs@asri.org, or visit the Audubon Society of Rhode Island (www.asri.org) website for more information.

March 13, 2010: Celebrating H.P. Lovecraft: A Literary Walk, Providence

11:00am-12:30pm. John Brown House Museum, 52 Power Street. Celebrate the life and work of Providence native and occult and horror fiction author H.P. Lovecraft, marking the anniversary of his death. Lovecraft's "Providence stories" provide the basis for this walk. $12 per person, reservations required. Call (401) 331-8575 x45, email programs@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

March 14, 2010: Ranger Days, Woonsocket

1:30pm-2:30pm. Museum of Work and Culture, Market Square. Greg Rubano is an avid collector of baseball items. His talk will focus on Woonsocket's own Napoleon Lajoie who pioneered the American League, set several baseball records, and is sometimes called the League's first Superstar. Free. Call (401) 769-9675, email rbacon@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

March 16, 2010: General Meeting of Cranston Historical Society, Cranston

Starts at 7:30pm. Sprague Mansion, 1351 Cranston Street. Les Ralston will speak about his book, Lost Soul and Long Time Gone: Neighbor Divided by Civil War. Call (401) 922-9226, or visit the Cranston Historical Society (www.cranstonhistoricalsociety.org) website for more information.

March 18, 2010: If These Walls Could Talk: African Alliance of Rhode Island, Providence

6:30pm-7:30pm. John Brown House Museum, 52 Power Street. There are over 75,000 Africans from forty African countries living in Rhode Island today. The African Alliance of Rhode Island (AARI) was formed to promote unity within these communities. Current president Julius Kolawole will speak on the organization's role in the growing Rhode Island African community. Free, but please RSVP to (401) 331-8575 x45, email programs@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

March 19, 2010: Ocean State Follies, Johnston

March 21, 2010: The Big Read: The Great Gatsby Film Screening, Newport

2:00pm-4:00pm. Newport Public Library, 300 Spring Street. The 1974 film starring Robert Redford as Jay Gatsby and Mia Farrow as his love, Daisy Buchanan, was shot at several locations in Newport. Free and open to the public; advance registration requested. Call (401) 847-8720 x208, email info@newportlibraryri.org (info@newportlibraryri.org), or visit the Newport Public Library website for more information.

March 21, 2010: Museum of Work and Culture Salute to Spring Celebration!, Woonsocket

1:00pm-5:00pm. Museum of Work and Culture, 42 South Main Street. The annual "Salute to Spring" marks the end of the annual appeal and features a raffle, refreshments, two living history presentations ("Play Ball" and "Crime and Punishment in Colonial Times"), and entertainment from Woonsocket's own jazz musician/singer Daryl Sherman. Tickets are $10 per person. Call (401) 769-9675, email aconway@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

March 21, 2010: Mighty Wurlitzer Organ Concert, Woonsocket

Starts at 2:30pm. Stadium Theatre Performing Arts Centre, 28 Monument Square. Jack Cook at the keyboard. Tickets $13. Call (401) 762-4545, email info@stadiumtheatre.com, or visit the Stadium Theatre (www.stadiumtheatre.com) website for more information.

March 23, 2010: The Noreen Stonor Drexel Preservation Lecture, Newport

Starts at 6:30pm. Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Avenue. Simeon Bankoff of the New York City Historic Districts Council speaks on "The Rest of Your Life: Preserving Places Beyond the Immediate Threat." Mr. Bankoff will discuss case studies that illustrate how gaining protection for an historic neighborhood is only the first step in preserving it. Free; advance registration requested. Call (401) 847-1000 x154, or visit the Newport Mansions (www.newportmansions.org) website for more information.

March 25, 2010: The Big Read: Dance Contest at Rosecliff, Newport

6:00pm-8:30pm. Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Avenue. A Charleston dance contest, with a twenty-first century twist! Teens, dressed in appropriate costume, compete and are judged in three categories: 1) a creative/improvised presentation of the Charleston 2) a traditional rendition of the Charleston and 3) the most original and appropriate costume. Spectators welcome, but space is limited and reservations are requested. Call (401) 847-1000 x154, or visit the Newport Mansions (www.newportmansions.org) website for more information.

March 27, 2010: Side by Each: Family History French Canadian Style, Providence

10:00am-12:00pm. Rhode Island Historical Society Library, 121 Hope Street. In the 1800s, one third of Quebec's population left Canada for mill villages in Rhode Island and elsewhere in New England. In this seminar, Patty Vigeant Locke will present resources and strategies for researching your French Canadian ancestors. RIHS members, $15; non-members, $20. Call (401) 273-8107 x12, email reference@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

March 27, 2010: Camouflage Egg Hunt, Bristol

10:00am-11:00am. Environmental Education Center, 1401 Hope Street. Children ages 3 to 10 set out in search for brown eggs and quickly realize how well they camouflage in the natural world. Bring a basket. $5 per member child; $7 per non-member child. Call (401) 949-5454 x3041 to register, or visit the Audubon Society of Rhode Island (www.asri.org) website for more information.

March 27, 2010: Camouflage Egg Hunt, Smithfield

10:00am-11:00am. Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road. Children ages 3 to 10 set out in search for brown eggs and quickly realize how well they camouflage in the natural world. Bring a basket. $5 per member child; $7 per non-member child. Call (401) 949-5454 x3041 to register, or visit the Audubon Society of Rhode Island (www.asri.org) website for more information.

March 27, 2010: Camouflage Egg Hunt, Exeter

10:00am-11:00am. Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, Pardon Joslin Road. Children ages 3 to 10 set out in search for brown eggs and quickly realize how well they camouflage in the natural world. Bring a basket. $5 per member child; $7 per non-member child. Call (401) 949-5454 x3041 to register, or visit the Audubon Society of Rhode Island (www.asri.org) website for more information.

March 27, 2010: Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Westerly

Starts at 1:00pm. Wilcox Park, High Street at Broad Street. Children aged 1-8 meet the Easter Bunny and Lucky the Duck and hunt for candy filled Easter eggs. Please bring your own basket. Free. Rain date March 28. Call (401) 596-7761, or visit the Westerly Chamber of Commerce (www.westerlychamber.org) website for more information.

March 27-28, 2010: Seal Watch and Prudence Island Tour, Bristol

9:45am-4:30pm. Bristol Ferry Landing, Thames Street. Have you always wanted to explore Prudence Island? Do you want a chance to witness seals at one of the best haul-out spots in Narragansett Bay? Then this experience is for you! Members: $25/adult, $15/child; Non-members: $30/adult, $20/child; ferry ticket not included. Bring a lunch. Pre-registration is required. Call (401) 949-5454 x3041, email programs@asri.org, or visit the Audubon Society of Rhode Island (www.asri.org) website for more information.

March 28, 2010: Ranger Days, Woonsocket

1:30pm-2:30pm. Museum of Work and Culture, Market Square. Sylvia Ann Soares directs "By the Sweat of Our Brow," dramatic readings based on oral histories collected from longshoremen of the International Longshoremen's Association Local #1329. Their diverse experiences are poignant, humorous, sweet and bitter. Free. Call (401) 769-9675, email rbacon@rihs.org, or visit the Rhode Island Historical Society (www.rihs.org) website for more information.

March 28, 2010: Friends of the Library Music Series: Atwater and Donnelly, Jamestown

3:00pm-4:30pm. Jamestown Philomenian Library, 26 North Road. The award-winning duo performs a unique and thrilling blend of traditional American and Celtic folk music and dance, along with original songs and poetry. The highly praised husband-wife team blends gorgeous vocals with an astonishing array of instruments including the mountain dulcimer, old-time banjo, tin whistle, guitar, limberjack, mandolin, harmonica, feet and more. Free. Call 401) 423-7280, email janeb70@cox.net, or visit the Jamestown Philomenian Library (www.jamestownri.com/library) website for more information.

March 28, 2010: Hiking the North South Trail, Section Four, Lincoln

Starts at 8:00am. Blackstone Valley Outfitters, 25 Carrington Street. The fourth section of the hike will start were we left off at the Richmond School, Richmond, and after a short road walk we will traverse through some of Arcadia Wildlife Management Area. Our trek will end at Route 165. Distance: 9 miles. Cost: $10; preregistration and blaze orange required. Call (401) 312-0369, email don@bvori.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Outfitters (www.bvori.com) website for more information.

March 31, 2010: The Work of the Wheelwright, Johnston

Starts at 7:00pm. Elijah Angell House, 101 Putnam Pike. Following the regular monthly meeting of the Johnston Historical Society, Rolf Johnson will talk about the tools of the wheelwright and demonstrate their use. Free and open to the public. Call (401) 231-3380, email info@johnstonhistorical.org, or visit the Johnston Historical Society (www.johnstonhistorical.org) website for more information.

April 1-24, 2010: Spring Herring Run, Saunderstown, North Kingstown

11:00am-4:00pm. Gilbert Stuart Museum, 815 Gibert Stuart Road. Grounds open for viewing of the herring run, nature trail, and bird walks. Museum buildings closed. Call (401) 294-3001, or visit the Gilbert Stuart Museum (www.gilbertstuartmuseum.com) website for more information.

April 3, 2010: Westerly Arts Stroll, Westerly

April 3, 2010: 11th Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Fun Day, Portsmouth

Starts at 12:15pm. Brown House, Linden Lane. Pony rides from 12:15pm; main egg hunt starts promptly at 1pm; hunt for toddlers through two-year-olds at 1:15pm; storytelling with Cindy Killavey and Anne Marie Forer at 1:30pm. Please bring your own basket or bag to collect the eggs, and your camera, because the Easter Bunny will be there! Free admission, donations encouraged. Visit the Brown House (www.onaquidneck.com/brownhouse) web site for more information.

April 3, 2010: Egg Hunt Safari, Providence

11:00am-2:30pm. Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue. Bring the whole family to the Zoo to enjoy a traditional egg hunt in a very different setting! Egg hunt activity begins on the hour and half hour from 11am to 2:30pm and is free with regular Zoo admission. A prize for every egg hunter. Special area provided for toddlers. Call (401) 785-3510, or visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo (www.rogerwilliamsparkzoo.org) website for more information.

April 3, 2010: Easter Egg Hunt, Newport

10:00am-12:00pm. International Tennis Hall of Fame, 194 Bellevue Avenue. The Easter Bunny will hop right into the Hall of Fame for an Easter egg hunt throughout the museum. Photographs with the Easter Bunny will be available. Call (401) 849-3990, or visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame (www.tennisfame.com) website for more information.

April 3, 2010: Easter Egg Hunt and Brunch, Newport

Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Avenue. The Preservation Society of Newport County invites you to bring the children to meet the Easter Bunny and enjoy a scrumptious Easter brunch. Reservations required. Reservations will be taken from Preservation Society members beginning February 8 and from non-members, space permitting, beginning on March 1. Call (401) 847-1000 x154, or visit the Newport Mansions (www.newportmansions.org) website for more information.

April 7, 2010: Blackstone Valley Culinaria Secret Ingredient Food Tour, Woonsocket

6:00pm-8:00pm. The Cakery, 91 Main Street. Learn how a traditional French quiche is prepared. After the demonstration, enjoy a nuts and berry salad served with homemade raspberry vinaigarette dressing, soup (chef's choice), bread sticks, and an assortment of French quiche. A beverage of your choice is included—coffee, tea, or soda. $19.50 per person; reservations required. Call (401) 724-2200, email donna@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council (www.tourblackstone.com) website for more information.

April 7, 2010: Mill Cove Conservancy, Warwick

7:00pm-8:45pm. Warwick Public Library, 600 Sandy Lane. Leslie Derrig will present the complete history in pictures of the Conimicut Point, Mill Cove, Riverside, and Longmeadow areas, dating back to before the Revolution. Seating is limited, registration suggested. Call (401) 737-1955, email leslied@i-networld.com, or visit the Warwick Public Library (www.warwicklibrary.org) website for more information.

April 8, 2010: Pawtucket Red Sox Opening Night, Pawtucket

Starts at 7:00pm. McCoy Stadium, One Ben Mondor Way. See tomorrow's baseball stars today at McCoy Stadium, with the AAA Pawtucket Red Sox Baseball Club, the farm team to the 2007 World Series champion Boston Red Sox. Call (401) 724-7300, or visit the Pawtucket Red Sox (www.pawsox.com) website for more information.

April 10, 2010: 3rd Annual Royal Tea and Recital, Newport

2:00pm-4:30pm. Hotel Viking, 1 Bellevue Avenue. Enjoy a menu of freshly-made tea sandwiches, assorted scones served with lemon curd, assorted tea breads, truffles and petit fours, champagne or Kir Royale while listening to selections by Newport Baroque. $40, all-inclusive. Call (401) 855-3096, email info@newportbaroque.org, or visit the Newport Baroque (www.newportbaroque.org) website for more information.

April 10-11, 2010: Seal Watch and Prudence Island Tour, Bristol

April 10-May 2, 2010: Daffodil Days, Bristol

10:00am-4:00pm. Wednesdays through Sundays. Blithewold Mansion, Gardens, and Arboretum, 101 Ferry Road. Springtime returns to the shores of Narragansett Bay with a spectacular display of more than 50,000 daffodils adding to the breathtaking views at this thirty-three-acre garden estate. View floral displays and exhibits in the mansion, and Wednesday through Friday, enjoy afternoon tea in the dining room. Call (401) 253-2707 for a daffodil bloom update, or visit the Blithewold (www.blithewold.org) website for more information.

April 14, 2010: Blackstone Valley Culinaria Secret Ingredient Food Tour, Pawtucket

6:00pm-8:00pm. The Village, 200 Main Street. Experience a demonstration of chicken with fried plantains. After the demonstration, sit down to salad, red stew, hard or soft chicken, fried plantains, and white rice. $19.50 per person; reservations required. Call (401) 724-2200, email donna@tourblackstone.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council (www.tourblackstone.com) website for more information.

April 17, 2010: Seal Watch at Rome Point, North Kingstown

1:00pm-3:00pm. John H. Chafee Nature Preserve, Boston Neck Road (Route 1). Join naturalist Laura Carberry for a visit to the largest seal haul-out site in the state. One-mile walk each way; good walking shoes, warm clothes, binoculars suggested. $8-$4 per members; $12-$6 per non-member. Pre-registration is required. Call (401) 949-5454 x3041, email programs@asri.org, or visit the Audubon Society of Rhode Island (www.asri.org) website for more information.

April 18, 2010: Blackstone Valley Historical Society General Meeting, Lincoln

Starts at 1:30pm. North Gate Toll House, 1873 Old Louisquisset Pike (Route 246). Dan Bethel, Lincoln resident and noted collector of Blackstone Valley ephemera showcases his collection featuring calendars from Arnold's Bakery, milk bottles, maps, bottle caps, and much more. Call (401) 725-2847, or email bvhs58@gmail.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Historical Society (bvhsri.org) website for more information.

April 20, 2010: Wicked Conduct: The Murder of Sarah Cornell, Cranston

Starts at 7:30pm. Sprague Mansion, 1351 Cranston Street. In 1832, Sarah Cornell, an unmarried, pregnant mill-worker, was found hanged in Tiverton, and a married Methodist minister was subsequently charged with her murder. Rory Raven, author of Wicked Conduct: The Murder of Sarah Cornell, will speak about the murder and the two trials that followed. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing. Call (401) 922-9226, or visit the Cranston Historical Society (www.cranstonhistoricalsociety.org) website for more information.

April 24, 2010: Ocean State Follies, Cranston

April 25, 2010: Neighborhoods of Newport House Tour—Exclusive Entry, Newport

10:00am-4:00pm. Saint Michael's Country Day School, 180 Rhode Island Avenue. This year's tour provides exclusive entry into five private estates located along Bellevue Avenue and Ocean Drive. Take a friend and be inspired by the wonderful architecture, scenic views, and interior design. Purchase advance tickets online or on the day of the tour at St. Michael's Country Day School. Rain or shine. Call (401) 849-5970, or email newporthousetour@gmail.com, or visit the Neighborhoods of Newport (www.newporthousetour.com) website for more information.

April 25, 2010: Gilbert Stuart Spring Fair, Saunderstown, North Kingstown

1:00pm-4:00pm. Gilbert Stuart Birthplace, 815 Gibert Stuart Road. Fish on the Run Program, corn grinding, Jonnycakes by Carpenter's Grist Mill, demonstrations, exhibits and sale. Call (401) 294-3001, or visit the Gilbert Stuart Museum (www.gilbertstuartmuseum.com) website for more information.

April 28, 2010: Run with the Herring, Smithfield

Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road. The full moon tide maximizes the chance to see the seething of herring trying to reach their breeding ponds from the ocean where they have spent their adulthood. Bring supper and climb aboard the Audubon van for a visit to two likely herring run sites. Society members $8, non-members $12; reservations suggested. Call (401) 949-5454 x3041, email programs@asri.org, or visit the Audubon Society of Rhode Island (www.asri.org) website for more information.

April 29, 2010: Scrimshaw of Rhode Island, Newport

Starts at 6:00pm. Colony House, Washington Square. Stuart M. Frank, Ph.D., Senior Curator of the New Bedford Whaling Museum, will discuss the unique nature of scrimshaw of Rhode Island including pieces that are in the collections of the Newport Historical Society. The program will conclude with scrimshaw appraisal; attendees are encouraged to bring articles from their own collections for review. Admission varies. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport Historical Society (www.newporthistorical.org) website for more information.

May 1, 2010: Cherry Tree Festival and Breakfast, Central Falls

Starts at 9:00am. M Residential, Roosevelt Avenue. Join us for the first Blackstone Valley Cherry Tree Festival starting with a morning breakfast, Cherry Tree Stroll, 5K Run and Walk, Chocolate Exhibit. Call (401) 724-2200, email mdemello@wndc.com, or visit the Blackstone Cherry Tree Festival (www.blackstonecherryfestival.com) website for more information.

May 1, 2010: Corn Planting Moon Celebration, Exeter

1:00pm-4:00pm. Tomaquag Indian Memorial Museum, 390 Summit Road. Participate in planting our corn for the Three Sister's Garden located at the Museum. Enjoy delicious corn-related foods, ceremonies, song and dance, storytelling and museum tours. Adults, $4; children, $2. Call (401) 539-7213, email lorenspears@tomaquagmuseum.com, or visit the Tomaquag Museum (www.tomaquagmuseum.com) website for more information.

May 1-2, 2010: Hasbro International G.I. Joe Collectors' Convention, Providence

Rhode Island Convention Center, 1 Sabin Street. Come see thousands of G.I. Joes! Buy, Sell, Trade! Over 200 tables of G.I. Joes from the past forty-five years! Meet the Hasbro G.I. Joe Team and past creators of G.I. Joe! Collecting information panels, kids play area, get appraisals of your old G.I. Joes! If you have ever owned a G.I. Joe, you must come to this event! Call (401) 458-6000, or visit the Rhode Island Winter Chili Festival (www.chili-festival.com) website for more information.

May 1-2, 2010: Smith's Castle Bridge to the Past and Opening Weekend, Wickford, North Kingstown

12:00pm-4:00pm. Smith's Castle, 55 Richard Smith Drive. The seventeenth century era of the Cocumscussoc trading posts of Richard Smith and Roger Williams is recalled; re-enactors and sutlers from around the region lend an air of authenticity to the festivities. Shop for pottery and trinkets or tour lower rooms of historic 1600s house. Presented in collaboration with the Roger Williams National Memorial. Call (401) 294-3521, or visit the Smith's Castle (www.smithscastle.org) website for more information.

May 5, 2010: Mighty Wurlitzer Coffee Concert, Woonsocket

Starts at 10:00am. Stadium Theatre Performing Arts Centre, 28 Monument Square. Jack Cook at the keyboard. Tickets $8. Call (401) 762-4545, email info@stadiumtheatre.com, or visit the Stadium Theatre (www.stadiumtheatre.com) website for more information.

May 5, 2010: 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 (www.historicnewengland.org) website for more information.

May 5, 2010: Westerly Arts Stroll, Westerly

May 6, 2010: Chocolate in Colonial Newport, Newport

Starts at 6:00pm. Colony House, Washington Square. Rhode Island was considered the chocolate capital of the American colonies. Rabbi Debbie Prinz will discuss the origins of chocolate in colonial Newport and the pioneering role that Jewish merchants played in North America. Admission varies. Call (401) 841-8770, or visit the Newport Historical Society (www.newporthistorical.org) website for more information.

May 7, 2010: Family Fishing Derby, Charlestown

Ninigret Park, 4813 Old Post Road. Not much info on this one, but we imagine it has something to do with families, fishing, and funny, old-fashioned hats. Rain date May 14. Call (401) 789-9301 for more information.

May 7, 2010: Ocean State Follies, Warwick

May 8, 2010: McKim, Mead and White: The Newport Casino Era, Newport

9:00am-4:30pm. International Tennis Hall of Fame, 194 Bellevue Avenue. This one-day symposium will present an opportunity to examine the architects, building and evolution of the site since its opening in 1880. The program will include lectures by prominent architects and historians, and will feature house tours of three magnificent McKim, Mead and White buildings in Newport. Registration fee applies. Call (401) 849-3990, or visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame (www.tennisfame.com) website for more information.

May 8, 2010: East Farm Spring Festival, Kingston, South Kingstown

10:00am-2:00pm. URI East Farm, Route 108. A day where visitors can find answers to anything from gardening to energy problems. "Green" exhibitors, workshops, entertainment, food, low cost compost bins, rain barrels, and plants grown by URI's master gardeners. Children's activities are a major attraction. Free. Call (401) 874-4453, or visit the URI (www.uri.edu/cels/ceoc) website for more information.

May 15, 2010: Abraham Lincoln 150th Anniversary Celebration, Providence

9:30am-3:30pm. Providence Amtrak Station. Join Abraham Lincoln as he travels from Providence to Woonsocket on the Providence and Worcester Railroad. Hear Lincoln's historic Cooper Union Speech at Harris Hall and enjoy period music by the Heritage String Band. Guests receive a signed Commemorative Print from an original painting of Lincoln by Peter Campbell. Passengers are encouraged to dress in period costume. Adults, $75; children, $65. Call (401) 724-2200, or visit the Blackstown Valley Tourism Council (www.tourblackstone.com) website for more information.

May 16, 2010: Blackstone Valley Historical Society General Meeting, Lincoln

Starts at 1:30pm. North Gate Toll House, 1873 Old Louisquisset Pike (Route 246). Join National Park Service Ranger Chuck Arning for a presentation on the Blackstone River valley National Heritage Corridor. Call (401) 725-2847, or email bvhs58@gmail.com, or visit the Blackstone Valley Historical Society (bvhsri.org) website for more information.

May 18, 2010: Cranston Historical Society General Meeting, Cranston

Starts at 7:30pm. Sprague Mansion, 1351 Cranston Street. Larry McDonald of the Varnum Continentals and Le Regiment Bourbonnais will discuss the Battle of Rhode Island. Call (401) 922-9226, or visit the Cranston Historical Society (www.cranstonhistoricalsociety.org) website for more information.

May 22, 2010: Fort Adams Opening Day, Newport

10:00am-4:00pm. Fort Adams State Park. Guided tours depart from the gift shop, weather permitting, every hour on the hour. View the officers' quarters, explore the underground listening tunnels, and climb the rampart walls for breathtaking views of Newport Harbor. Tours run through Columbus Day. Call (401) 841-0707, or visit the Fort Adams (www.fortadams.org) website for more information

May 22-23, 2010: Spring Festival at Kenyon's Grist Mill, Usquepaug, Richmond

10:00am-5:00pm. Kenyon's Grist Mill, 21 Glen Rock Road. Take a free tour of the mill, sample Johnny Cakes and locally roasted coffee, watch the grinding, learn our history, visit with local artisans and farmers, and enjoy clam cakes and chowder. Free Admission, food donation to Rhode Island Food Bank or clothing for the Johnny Cake Center is encouraged. Parking at Washington County Fairgrounds with shuttle bus. Call (800) 753-6966, or visit the Kenyon's Grist Mill (www.kenyonsgristmill.com) website for more information.

May 26, 2010: Johnston Historical Society General Meeting, Johnston

Starts at 7:00pm. Elijah Angell House, 101 Putnam Pike. Our speaker will be George Sutcliffe, a decorated World War II pilot and longtime Graniteville resident who appeared in the History Channel show "Dogfights." He'll tell us a little bit about his experiences flying a P-47 Thunderbolt. Free and open to the public. Call (401) 231-3380, email info@johnstonhistorical.org, or visit the Johnston Historical Society (www.johnstonhistorical.org) website for more information.

May 29, 2010: Babcock-Smith House Museum Open House, Westerly

2:00pm-5:00pm. Babcock-Smith House Museum, 124 Granite Street. Join the Babcock-Smith House for the reading of Rhode Island's Renunciation Act, refreshments and tours of the 1734 home. Call (401) 596-5704, or visit the Babcock-Smith House (www.babcock-smithhouse.com) website for more information.

May 31, 2010: Memorial Day Parade, Wakefield, South Kingstown

Starts at 10:00am. Parade begins at Holly Street, goes down Main Street, and ends at High Street in Saugatucket Park for ceremony. Call (401) 789-9301, or visit the Town of South Kingstown (www.southkingstownri.com) website for more information.

May 31, 2010: Memorial Day Parade, Westerly

Downtown Pawcatuck/Westerly. Annual parade and ceremony following at Wilcox park. Free. Call (401) 596-0837 for more information.

June 2, 2010: Westerly Arts Stroll, Westerly

June 5, 2010: 29th Annual Schweppes Great Chowder Cook-Off, Newport

11:00am-6:00pm. Newport Yachting Center, 4 Commercial Wharf. The world's original and longest running chowder competition determines bragging rights to the world's "chowda" champion title among dozens of restaurants, divided into Clam, Seafood, and Creative chowder categories. Call (401) 846-1600, or visit the Newport Waterfront Festivals (www.newportfestivals.com) website for more information.

June 5, 2010: 6th Annual Fort Adams Family Day, Newport

11:00am-4:00pm. Fort Adams State Park. A great day of fun-filled activities, live entertainment, games, food, various vendor booths, and a Touch-A-Truck event presented by the March of Dimes. Special guided tours of historic Fort Adams will also be offered. Call (401) 841-0707, or visit the Fort Adams (www.fortadams.org) website for more information

June 5, 2010: 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. Free. Visit the Historic New England (www.historicnewengland.org) website for more information.

June 6, 2010: Wedding Bells IV Preview, Narragansett

2:00pm-4:00pm. South County Museum, Strathmore Street. From the South County Museum Collection—Wedding dresses and gowns from the first half of the twentieth century. Flower arranging presentation and light refreshments served. SCM members, $20; non-members, $25; reservations requested. Call (401) 783-5400, or visit the South County Museum (www.southcountymuseum.org) website for more information.

June 12, 2010: Rhode Island Scottish Highland Festival, Carolina, Richmond

9:00am-5:00pm. Washington County Fairgrounds, 80 Richmond Townhouse Road. Authentic Scottish Fair with competitions for solo piping, bands, solo drummers, highland dance and heavy athletics; clan village, Scottish entertainers, food, animals and merchandise. Adults, $12; children ages 6-12, $5; under 6, free. Call (401) 596-5849, or visit the Rhode Island Scottish Highland Festival (www.riscot.org) website for more information.

June 13, 2010: Strawberry Thanksgiving, Exeter

1:00pm-4:00pm. Tomaquag Indian Memorial Museum, 390 Summit Road. The strawberry is known as the gift of friendship. Enjoy delicious foods highlighting the strawberry, participate in our thanksgiving ceremony, listen to storytellers, play traditional games, create a gift of friendship and do the Friendship Dance with all your friends. Visit the museum, gift shop, and Three Sisters' Garden. Adults, $4; children, $2. Call (401) 539-7213, email lorenspears@tomaquagmuseum.com, or visit the Tomaquag Museum (www.tomaquagmuseum.com) website for more information.

June 13, 2010: Rhode Island Kosher Chili Cook Off, Providence

11:00am-4:00pm. Jewish Community Center of Rhode Island, 401 Elmgrove Avenue. Teams compete for the bragging rights of making the best kosher chili. This community-wide event brings together the entire Rhode Island Jewish community, secular, religious, affiliated and non-affiliated. Proceeds benefit the Jewish Community Center of Rhode Island. Call (401) 726-3570, or visit the Rhode Island Kosher Chili Cook Off (www.rikosherchilicookoff.com) website for more information.

June 18, 2010: 5th Annual Rochambeau Biscuit Day Tea, Cranston

6:00pm-8:00pm. Joy Homestead, 156 Scituate Avenue. Celebrate the 1781 march of General Rochambeau through Rhode Island on his way to victory over the British at Yorktown with tea and homemade biscuits and strawberries at the Joy Homestead, located on the Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route. $5 donation. Call (401) 944-9226, email joyhomesteader@verizon.net, or visit the Cranston Historical Society (www.cranstonhistoricalsociety.org) website for more information.

June 19, 2010: 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. Admission $5. Visit the Historic New England (www.historicnewengland.org) website for more information.

June 19, 2010: Strawberry Festival, Wickford, North Kingstown

12:00pm-4:00pm. Smith's Castle, 155 Richard Smith Drive (off Route 1). Savor Smith Castle's celebrated strawberry shortcake and pay homage to the humble wild strawberry—a favorite of the early colonists and the native Narragansett. Enjoy a day filled with family entertainment. Rain date: June 20. Call (401) 294-3521, or visit the Smith's Castle (www.smithscastle.org) website for more information.

June 24, 2010: Thawn Harris—Narragansett Tribal Nation Storyteller, Jamestown

8:00pm-9:00pm. Jamestown Philomenian Library, 26 North Road. Part of the summer reading program, this program is for older children, ages 10 and up. Thawn Harris is a former World Championship Eastern War Dancer and combines traditional dance, song and flute playing in his presentation. Call 401) 423-7280, email library@jamestownri.com, or visit the Jamestown Philomenian Library (www.jamestownri.com/library) website for more information.

June 26, 2010: Zoobilee: Feast with the Beasts, Providence

7:00pm-11:00pm. Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue. Come enjoy an adults-only evening and have a wild time while supporting the Zoo! Our largest annual fundraising bash offers partygoers the chance to roam the Zoo and sample specialties from dozens of the area's best restaurants, caterers, and bars while enjoying musical entertainment, dancing, a "wildly" unique raffle and silent auction and more. Call (401)941-3910, or visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo (www.rogerwilliamsparkzoo.org/zoobilee/zble_08.cfm) website for more information.

June 30, 2010: Johnston Historical Society General Meeting, Johnston

Starts at 7:00pm. Elijah Angell House, 101 Putnam Pike. For our presentation this evening, the multitalented Fred Mikkelsen will give a blacksmithing exhibition. Free and open to the public. Call (401) 231-3380, email info@johnstonhistorical.org, or visit the Johnston Historical Society (www.johnstonhistorical.org) website for more information.

July 7, 2010: Westerly Arts Stroll, Westerly

July 17, 2010: Open House at Arnold House, Lincoln

July 20, 2010: Cranston Historical Society General Meeting, Cranston

Starts at 7:30pm. Sprague Mansion, 1351 Cranston Street. John Roy Jr. presents A Field Guide to Southern New England Railroad Depots and Freight Houses. Call (401) 922-9226, or visit the Cranston Historical Society (www.cranstonhistoricalsociety.org) website for more information.

August 4, 2010: Westerly Arts Stroll, Westerly

January 5, 2011: Westerly Arts Stroll, Westerly

February 2, 2011: Westerly Arts Stroll, Westerly