Annual Newport Rotary Polo Charity Match. Credit: RoFernandez

Good Morning, Newport! Today is Saturday, May 31, the 151st day of 2025. There are 214 days left in the year.

Weather Forecast

  • Today: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 11 am, then a slight chance of showers between 11 am and noon. Areas of fog before noon. High near 66. Southeast wind 11 to 18 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph. The chance of precipitation is 80%—new precipitation amounts between a tenth and a quarter of an inch, except higher amounts are possible in thunderstorms.
  • Tonight: A slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 52. West wind 10 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph. The chance of precipitation is 20%.

🚨 You need to know

The energy across Newport County is palpable today as a diverse array of events unfolds, promising something for every resident and visitor. From the momentous launch of new careers at IYRS to the thunder of hooves for a good cause, and a cinematic dive into maritime history, the county is a hive of activity.

A significant highlight today is the 27th Annual Graduation Ceremony at IYRS School of Technology & Trades. Students are not just receiving diplomas; some are literally setting sail on their careers as they launch vessels they’ve painstakingly built. The maritime theme continues as Ben Sorkin, CEO of electric boating company Flux Marine, delivers the commencement address, inspiring the next generation of marine craftspeople.

The spirit of philanthropy is also in full swing with the Newport Rotary Club’s Annual Charity Polo Match. Spectators will gather this afternoon for the thrilling sport, with all proceeds dedicated to supporting the club’s scholarship fund and various local initiatives, making it a day of excitement for a noble purpose.

For those with a love for animals and a desire to support a cherished local institution, the Spring Visitors Weekend continues at West Place Animal Sanctuary. The event offers a chance to see the vital work being done and to meet the sanctuary’s beloved residents, including the newest adorable addition, Alfie the baby emu.

History and adventure take center stage at the Jane Pickens Theater and Event Center (The JPT), which will host a screening of the documentary “Around Alone.” The film chronicles Dodge Morgan’s historic solo sailing voyage around the globe in 1985, offering an inspiring look at perseverance and maritime prowess.

Beyond these cornerstone events, the day is packed with community happenings. The Aquidneck Growers Market kicked off the morning, offering fresh local goods, while a Churchwide Yard Sale at the United Congregational Church promises hidden treasures. Community Waterfront Day, Tree Corps at Miantonomi Park, and Newport Black History Walking Tours provide diverse ways to engage with the local environment and heritage. Families can enjoy Kite Making at the Jamestown Arts Center or Children’s Storytime at Charter Books.

For those considering making Newport County their home, or perhaps finding a new one, the property market is bustling. An impressive 59 Open Houses are scheduled across the county this weekend, showcasing everything from waterfront estates to charming condos.

As the afternoon progresses, the Barks & Booze Fundraiser for Save A Lab at Gulf Stream Bar & Grille offers a way to support furry friends, while the Match Point Mixer at the International Tennis Hall of Fame will cater to sports enthusiasts. For a different kind of action, Rock & Wrestling will take over Rejects Beer Co.

The evening promises no shortage of entertainment. Author Carrie King will be featured at Charter Books, and live improv comedy with the Bit Players at The Firehouse Theater is set to deliver laughs. Music lovers have a plethora of choices, with venues like The Landing, Newport Blues Cafe, One Pelham East, and many more hosting live performances spanning various genres, ensuring the vibrant atmosphere continues well into the night.

Get the full roundup of listings (and links for more information) on everything happening today below.

📅 What’s Up Today

Next up on the cruise ship schedule: The Volendam on June 10.

Things To Do

Live Music & Entertainment

Newport County Public Meetings

  • No meetings are scheduled.

📈 Yesterday’s most-read

The following were yesterday’s most-read What’sUpNewp articles.

  1. Newport Police need help identifying shoplifting suspects
  2. Newport Restaurant Group to open ‘J.T. Commons’ in former Foodlove Market space
  3. Historic Easton’s Beach Carousel may find new home in Aquidneck Park
  4. Newport announces lineup for free summer concert series at Easton’s Beach
  5. On the Market: A look at 59 Open Houses in Newport County this weekend (May 31 – June 1) 
  6. Obituary: Ronald Murdock
  7. Newport tattoo legend’s booth resurrected for Providence Tattoo Convention
  8. Things to do in Newport County this weekend: May 30 – June 1
  9. Obituary: Robert Morton
  10. Obituary: Martin Lynch

Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020). He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide. Ryan...