Historians and cartographers will tell you that “Broadway” is typically one of the first streets laid out on a city map, designed as a central artery for commerce. The name, derived from the Dutch Breede weg, meaning “broad way,” likely originated from Native American footpaths that ran diagonally down the length of Manhattan Island. Newport’s own Broadway was laid out during the city’s founding in 1639 and, much like its New York counterpart, has remained a community hub ever since.
During Newport’s early days as a thriving trading harbor, Long Wharf and Washington Square were the city’s economic and civic heart. Broadway branched off these marketplaces, evolving through cycles of growth and renewal over the centuries.
Modern Day Broadway, Newport
Fast-forward to today’s celebratory weekend. The idea for the Broadway Street Fair was born in 2016 after major construction improvements were completed along the corridor. Led by Newport This Week publisher Lynne Tungett and a group of local business owners, the goal was simple: celebrate a revitalized neighborhood and bring people—and business—back to Broadway.
Nearly nine years later, the fair stretches from Equality Park to Washington Square and draws more than 15,000 guests. The free, family-friendly event has become a beloved fall tradition featuring over 200 vendors—including 25 food vendors, 45 nonprofits, and 125 artisans and retailers. There’s truly something for everyone at the Broadway Street Fair.
Tungett’s daughter, Deb Bailey, now coordinates the fair in addition to her full-time role at the weekly paper. Planning typically begins each spring, with hundreds of hours spent pulling together logistics, vendors, and programming. “The vendor list was sold out by early September this year,” Bailey noted.
She’s joined by a dedicated BSF leadership team: Jennifer Sunderland, Vendor Coordinator; David Lopes, Music Coordinator; and a roster of committed partners, including Lynn Ceglie, Newport City Council Vice Chair and Councilor, Second Ward; and Erin Donovan-Boyle, CEO of the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce. Their collaboration, along with generous repeat sponsors, ensures the event’s success year after year.
The Broadway Street Fair is a registered nonprofit, fiscally sponsored by the Newport County Development Council (part of the Greater Newport Chamber). On event day, a crew of eight from A1 Roofing, Newport Tent, and Sound Advice—plus more than 50 volunteers—work tirelessly to get everything ready.
And with luck, even Mother Nature will play her part, keeping any autumn Nor’easter at bay—fingers crossed!
“The Broadway Street Fair is a way for locals to reconnect with friends and neighbors following the busy summer season,” Bailey said. “It also generates much-needed revenue for our diverse businesses, gives nonprofits an opportunity for outreach, and supports local artisans and performers.”
Keeping It Fresh
Each year, the behind-the-scenes team adds new features to keep the fair lively and engaging. Last year’s hit addition, the Beyond Broadway Beer Garden, returns to Provence sur Mer’s patio overlooking Washington Square. Sponsored by People’s Credit Union, Newport Vineyards/Taproot Beer, and Rejects Beer, the event welcomes guests thanks to venue owner Karen Pinelli.
The women of Conexión Latina Newport will host Festival Latina in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, featuring music, cultural activities, and community engagement.
Kids can enjoy the Midway Kid Zone, including a mini-golf course in the K&MB lot next to Broadway’s newest burger hotspot, Chomp, sponsored by Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting.
Creative energy will also be flowing at Eisenhower Park—the official name of Washington Square’s central green—with Art in the Park, sponsored by the Newport Artists Collective, and Chalk on the Square, inviting visitors of all ages to create colorful street art.
Families can explore fire trucks, police vehicles, and even boats on display (brought in by the Harbor Master’s Office), while enjoying dozens of other fun, interactive displays all over the district.
Musical Pop-Ups and Stages
Live music from local and nationally-known performers remain one of the fair’s most popular attractions. This year’s lineup features a mix of independent songwriters, well-known local bands, and musical pop-ups spread across multiple stages along the route.
For a full list of performers and set times, visit broadwaystreetfairnpt.com/music.
A Food Lover’s Oasis
No street fair is complete without great food—and Broadway delivers. The event’s more than two dozen food trucks and pop-up stands will offer everything from classic fair treats to international flavors. Visitors can preview menus and plan their culinary adventure at broadwaystreetfairnpt.com/food.
Between bites and beats, guests can browse the many artisan, retail, civic, and nonprofit booths lining Broadway. Local businesses and organizations will be eager to share their latest initiatives and ideas to make Newport a safer, healthier, and more vibrant community.
So, this weekend, let’s all give our regards to Newport’s Broadway—once a humble colonial footpath, now a thriving symbol of community spirit, creativity, and connection.
Michele Gallagher is a dedicated supporter of local businesses and the founder of City-by-the-Sea Communications.
