Here’s this week’s Sour Grapes; enjoy!
Arts & Culture
A look at What’s Up in arts and culture in Newport, Rhode Island, and beyond.
Posted inMusic & Entertainment, News
Leo Kottke’s Newport concert postponed, new date to be announced
Guitar legend Leo Kottke’s highly anticipated performance at the Jane Pickens Theater has been postponed from its original Wednesday night slot due to illness. The concert, scheduled for October 15 at 7:30 PM, has been rescheduled after Kottke was diagnosed with pneumonia, according to producer Spectacle Live. A new performance date in early 2026 is […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra to open season with Gershwin, Ravel
The Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra will kick off its 2025-2026 season with a diverse program ranging from French impressionism to American jazz Nov. 2 at East Providence High School. The 3 p.m. concert at the school’s auditorium, 2000 Pawtucket Ave., will feature interim Music Director John Eells leading the orchestra through works by Maurice […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Broadway Street Fair celebrates 10th anniversary with record crowds and community spirit
The 2025 Broadway Street Fair, which originated in 2016 following years of major construction up and down the main thoroughfare, was a massive success on its 10th calendar Anniversary. This free event is family-friendly and stretches from Equality Park down to Washington Square with six stages along the way serving up a broad array of […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Charter Books to host cookbook event with Rhode Island author
Charter Books will host Rhode Island cookbook author Polina Chesnakova for a cooking demonstration and tasting on Wednesday, Oct. 29 at Pivotal Brewing. Chesnakova will demonstrate how to make varenyky, a stuffed dumpling featured in her recently published cookbook “Chesnok: Cooking from My Corner of the Diaspora: Recipes from Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Art Museum reopens members’ exhibition after community feedback
The Newport Art Museum is bringing back its Members’ Juried Exhibition after a strategic planning process revealed strong community demand for the tradition. The exhibition, titled “Springboard,” opens Jan. 22, 2026, in the museum’s historic John N.A. Griswold House and will feature works by museum members displayed alongside pieces from the permanent collection. The show […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Spotlighting the busy women (and a few good men) behind the scenes at the Broadway Street Fair
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 […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Classical to present pianist Charlotte Hu, saxophonist Valentin Kovalev in November
Newport Classical will present two concerts in November as part of its ongoing Chamber Series, featuring a Taiwanese American pianist and a Siberian saxophonist making his local debut. Pianist Charlotte Hu will perform works by Chopin at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, at Newport Classical Recital Hall, 42 Dearborn St. Saxophonist Valentin Kovalev will take […]
Posted inArts & Culture
From Harvest Festivals to Haunted Mansions: Newport’s fall calendar is packed with events
As temperatures cool and leaves begin to turn, Newport’s fall season is heating up with a packed calendar of festivals, milestone celebrations and seasonal experiences that showcase why autumn might just be the best time to visit The Classic Coast. “It’s no secret that Newport’s autumn charm and crisp weather make it the perfect backdrop […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Former ProJo reporter explores coal’s legacy at Charter Books event
Since the industrial revolution of the late 1800s, coal has remained a significant energy source in the United States, peaking in the mid-20th century, and declining because of environmental concerns. Even with those concerns, coal remains a significant source of energy in certain areas of the United States. Recently, the Trump administration has been promoting […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Overlap gallery to host exhibition benefiting Center for Black History
Overlap gallery will present “Forging Freedom: Atlantic Journeys,” an exhibition exploring Black and Indigenous histories through the work of 10 contemporary artists, with proceeds benefiting the Newport Historical Society’s Edward W. Kane and Martha J. Wallace Center for Black History. The exhibition, curated by Dr. Akeia de Barros Gomes, director of the Center for Black […]
Posted inThings To Do
What’s happening this weekend in Newport: Oct. 9-13
Discover all that’s happening for live music, entertainment, and events this weekend in and around Newport. Organizing an event? Add it to What’sUpNewp’s event calendar. Thursday, Oct. 9 Things To Do 9 a.m.: Free Fall Tree Program at Newport Tree Conservancy 10 a.m.: Talking Trees: Tree Seed Collecting 11 a.m.: Colonial Jewish Walking Tours at […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Business, Instagram, Music & Entertainment, News
Independent live entertainment generates $138 million for Rhode Island economy, new report finds
Rhode Island’s independent live entertainment industry drives $138.2 million in state GDP and supports more than 2,300 jobs, according to a first-of-its-kind national economic study released Wednesday. The report from the National Independent Venue Association shows the state’s independently owned venues, promoters and festivals generate $287.7 million in total economic output and $12.9 million in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Introducing What’sUpNewp Wordy: Your daily Newport-themed brain teaser
Keeping up with all the local news can be taxing. So take a break and see if you can solve What’sUpNewp’s daily word puzzle, Wordy. Today, we’re pleased to introduce a new feature: a Newport-themed word game that challenges you to guess five-letter words connected to recent stories we’ve covered. The gameplay might be familiar […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Middletown Library plans wall-breaking ceremony for future home
The Middletown Public Library will celebrate the beginning of a new era with a wall-breaking ceremony at its future home on Monday, Oct. 27. The 11 a.m. event at 110 Enterprise Center will mark the official start of renovations to transform the 30,000-square-foot building into a modern library and community space. Community members are invited […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Country star Phil Vassar brings 25th anniversary ‘Paradise’ tour to Cranston
Country music star Phil Vassar brings his “25 Years of Paradise” tour to the Park Theatre on Oct. 24, celebrating the 25th anniversary of his breakout No. 1 hit “Just Another Day in Paradise.” The intimate acoustic performance promises nightly setlist changes and covers of musical legends like Billy Joel and Elton John. For Vassar, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Century-old painting of elk to be unveiled after restoration at Newport Elks Lodge
A forgotten 1913 painting by a U.S. Navy petty officer will be unveiled Nov. 1 at the Newport Elks Lodge after a six-month restoration brought the century-old artwork back to life. “The Elk,” painted by Chief Petty Officer Peter Lars Schiot, was discovered in an upstairs storage closet at the lodge by members David Marlowe […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Sakonnet Vineyard celebrates 50th anniversary with harvest festival, fall events
Sakonnet Vineyard will mark its 50th anniversary with a two-day harvest festival Oct. 11-12, featuring live music, wine tastings, local vendors and family activities at the Little Compton winery. The anniversary celebration is part of an expanded lineup of fall programming at the vineyard, located at 162 West Main Road. New England’s oldest vineyard opened […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport String Project to open concert series with weekend performances
The Newport String Project will present the opening weekend of its Newport County Concert Series on Oct. 25-26 with performances in Middletown and Jamestown. The Newport String Quartet will perform at 3 p.m. Oct. 25 at St. Columba’s Church in Middletown and at 3 p.m. Oct. 26 at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Jamestown. The […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Puddingstone Music to present Romantic-era concert at Rough Point
Puddingstone Music will present a chamber music concert featuring works by Brahms, Schubert and Schumann on Nov. 1 at Rough Point Mansion. The performance, titled “Romantic Entwined: Brahms, Schubert & Schumann,” will begin at 6:30 p.m. and feature violinist Geneva Lewis and pianist Audrey Vardanega. The program includes Schumann’s “Three Romances,” Schubert’s “Sonatina in G […]
Posted inArts & Culture
In Photos: 2025 Newport Concours d’Elegance
The 7th Annual Audrain Newport Concours d’Elegance has come to a close. The weather for the whole affair over the past 5 days has been perfect, and the field of distinguished and rare motorcars was beyond description. The 180 vehicles are separated into 26 classes and judged within each class with a runner-up, second place, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Rare 1933 Alfa Romeo wins top honor at Newport Concours d’Elegance
A magnificent unrestored 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C-2300 “Rimoldi” Corto Spyder captured Best of Show honors Sunday at the 2025 Audrain Newport Concours d’Elegance, besting 184 classic automobiles from across the United States and Europe. The winning car, owned by Chris MacAllister, also took first place in the Pre-War Alfa Romeo class at the prestigious event […]
Posted inArts & Culture
MLK Community Center to host free outdoor screening of ‘Water Brother: The Sid Abbruzzi Story’
The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center will present a free outdoor screening of “Water Brother: The Sid Abbruzzi Story” on Wednesday, Oct. 15, offering Newport residents a chance to view the acclaimed documentary about the city’s legendary surfer on the big screen. The event runs from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Marcus Samuelsson brings message of heritage and community to Newport Wine & Food Festival
Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson (“Chopped,” “Top Chef Masters”) headlined this year’s Newport Wine & Food Festival, and his Conversation event proved to be one of the big highlights of the late summer. The intimate talk took place at Rosecliff, culminating the festivities. Gathered guests were treated to a rare opportunity to hear directly from one […]
Posted inThings To Do
What’s happening this weekend in Newport: Oct. 2-5
Discover all that’s happening for live music, entertainment, and events this weekend in and around Newport. Organizing an event? Add it to What’sUpNewp’s event calendar. Thursday, Oct. 2 Things To Do Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week 9 a.m.: Free Fall Tree Program at Newport Tree Conservancy 10 a.m.: Bonhams | Car Auction Preview at […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Classical announces December holiday concert series
Newport Classical will present four holiday concerts in December, with tickets going on sale Monday, Oct. 7, the organization announced Wednesday. The series features two programs: Classical Christmas with Frisson and Messiah at the Mansion. Frisson, described as “the classical group that does it all,” will perform Dec. 13 at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport symposium to explore French influence on Gilded Age architecture
The Preservation Society of Newport County will host a two-day symposium examining French influences on Newport’s Gilded Age mansions, featuring presentations by international curators and scholars. “The Newport Symposium: The French Influence in Newport” will take place Nov. 6-7 at Rosecliff and Marble House, exploring how America’s elite looked to French aristocracy for inspiration in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport theater project to bring historic cemetery to life
A theatrical performance will transform Newport’s Common Burying Ground into an immersive storytelling experience next month, bringing the lives of some of the 8,000 people buried there back to life through drama and music. “Life After Life” will be performed four times over two days, Nov. 1-2, featuring more than 45 local actors, musicians and […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Volleyball Club to host grass tournament at Cardines Field Oct. 12
Newport Volleyball Club will host the Cardines Classic grass volleyball tournament at Cardines Field on Sunday, Oct. 12, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The special event, approved by Newport City Council, will bring together players and fans for a day of competition at the historic venue. Spectators can watch matches and cheer on athletes […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jamestown Arts Center to host Autumn Arts Open House Oct. 19
The Jamestown Arts Center will celebrate the season with its annual Autumn Arts Open House on Sunday, Oct. 19, from 1 to 4 p.m. The free, all-ages event invites community members to explore JAC studios, meet teaching artists and participate in hands-on art activities. Visitors can enjoy live demonstrations, make-and-take projects and seasonal refreshments. “This […]
Posted inNews
Notes: JPT Film & Event Center celebrates spooky season with month of horror classics
Good morning, Newport! Today is Friday, Sept. 26, the 269th day of 2025. There are 96 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The JPT Film & Event Center is embracing Halloween with its annual Spooky Season screening series throughout October, offering everything from cult classics to slasher films with special live […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Magic and mayhem take center stage in ‘Harry Potter & The Cursed Child’
Let’s get this out of the way. In Harry Potter terminology, I guess I’m a Muggle. Officially (according to Wikipedia anyway) is “a person who lacks any sort of magical ability.” In my mind, a Muggle is someone who’s not fully steeped in the lore of Potterworld. Now that we’ve got that out of the […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Dewey Bunnell keeps America’s music alive on the road
Fifty-five years after the band America was formed, Dewey Bunnell finds it “very satisfying that our songs still have a life. All of it is exciting.” I had a nice chat with Bunnell recently in advance of America’s appearance at the Providence Performing Arts Center on October 18. He was relaxing in his home in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Providence author Carissa Broadbent to celebrate new book release in Newport
#1 New York Times bestselling author Carissa Broadbent will celebrate the release of her latest book, “Daughter of No Worlds,” at the Jane Pickens Theater on Oct. 20 at 6 p.m. The Providence-based author, who has sold more than 4 million books, will appear in conversation with author Jenny L. Howe at the JPT Film […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Aquidneck Community Table hosts inaugural Seed to Soul party
Aquidneck Community Table will host its inaugural Seed to Soul party on Oct. 26 at Sweet Berry Farm in Middletown. The 21+ event runs from 3 to 6 p.m. at 915 Mitchell’s Lane and brings together local farmers, chefs and neighbors to celebrate local food, culture and community. Guests will enjoy tastings from local eateries, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Arts Around the Fire opens season with House of Waves founder
The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Newport County will kick off a new season of Arts Around the Fire on Oct. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Sardella’s Restaurant, 30 Memorial Blvd. West. The free event is open to the public and requires no reservations. The guest will be Patrick Murphy, founder and builder […]
Posted inNews
Notes: MLK Community Center to open holiday help registration Oct. 14
Good morning, Newport! Today is Friday, Sept. 26, the 269th day of 2025. There are 96 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center will begin in-person registration for its annual Holiday Help programs on Tuesday, Oct. 14, offering meal assistance and gifts to families […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Portsmouth Police honor officers at annual awards ceremony
Good morning, Newport! Today is Friday, Sept. 26, the 269th day of 2025. There are 96 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Portsmouth Police Department recognized officers for their dedication and service during its 11th annual awards and swearing-in ceremony Wednesday evening at Glen Manor House. The ceremony celebrated officers […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Broadway Street Fair returns to Newport Oct. 11 with 200+ vendors
The eighth annual Broadway Street Fair will take place Saturday, Oct. 11, from noon to 6 p.m. along Newport’s Broadway, rain or shine. More than 200 artisans, makers and food vendors will line “Newport’s Main Street” alongside local bands and entertainment for the free public event, according to a press release. The street fair begins […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Audrain Newport Concours and Motor Week grows with more participants, sponsors
The 2025 Audrain Newport Concours and Motor Week continues to attract growing participation and sponsorship from around the world as it solidifies its position as a premier automotive event. The annual gathering, which celebrates automotive history and luxury lifestyle, has experienced remarkable growth in participation and is drawing a more diverse crowd each year, according […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Style & Shop, Things To Do
IYRS to host Holly Jolly Weekend holiday festivities in December
IYRS School of Technology & Trades will kick off the holiday season with its Holly Jolly Weekend, featuring a community holiday party and artisan market in early December. The IYRS Community Holiday Party will take place Friday, Dec. 5, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by the Artisan Holiday Market on Saturday, Dec. 6, from […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Author to discuss memoir about father’s Block Island plane crash at Charter Books
Photographer and author Stacy Waldman Bass will discuss her recently published memoir “Lightkeeper: A Memoir Through the Lens of Love and Loss” at Charter Books on Monday from 6 to 7 p.m. The book explores Bass’s journey through grief following her father’s death in a 1995 seaplane accident on Block Island and her mother’s death […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Bowen’s Wharf takes center stage in Hallmark’s “A Newport Christmas”
Good morning, Newport! Today is Thursday, Sept. 25, the 268th day of 2025. There are 97 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Newport’s historic Bowen’s Wharf is celebrating its starring role as the sole Newport location featured in Hallmark Channel’s upcoming holiday film “A Newport Christmas,” which premieres Sunday, November 2nd […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Newport police clarify e-bike laws following safety concerns
Good morning, Newport! Today is Wednesday, Sept. 24, the 267th day of 2025. There are 98 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Newport Police Department released a press release Wednesday clarifying state laws governing electric bicycles, emphasizing that officers enforce Rhode Island General Laws rather than information found through search […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Festa Italiana returns Sept. 26-Oct. 13 with food, music and cultural celebrations
The annual Newport Festa Italiana will return Sept. 26-Oct. 13, offering nearly three weeks of events celebrating Italian culture, cuisine and community traditions in the City by the Sea. The festival kicks off Friday, Sept. 26, with the John Panaggio Original Ziti Night at Vasco da Gama Hall, 15 Fenner Ave. The dinner runs 5-7 […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Audrain Newport Concours to feature century of race cars
The Audrain Newport Concours and Motor Week will present “Race Cars Through the Ages,” a free public exhibit featuring historic race cars at the International Tennis Hall of Fame on Oct. 3-4. The display will showcase 23 race cars spanning more than 100 years of motorsport history, from a 1901 Panhard & Levassor Type B1 […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Salve Regina launches $1.95M mobile health unit to serve Rhode Island communities
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Tuesday, Sept. 23, the 266th day of 2025. There are 99 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Salve Regina University unveiled a new mobile health and wellness outreach program Monday, rolling out a fully equipped 40-foot educational unit that will bring healthcare services and training […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Nine Central Film Festival expands to 2 nights for 7th year
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Monday, Sept. 22, the 265th day of 2025. There are 100 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Nine Central Film Festival will return for its seventh year Oct. 3-4, expanding to two nights at the Jane Pickens Film and Event Center for the first […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Newport Harbor welcomes 33 more cruise ships through November in busy season finale
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Sunday, Sept. 21, the 264th day of 2025. There are 103 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Newport Harbor is bustling with maritime activity today as the cruise ship Aurora arrives at Perrotti Park alongside the Enchanted Princess, marking the beginning of what promises to […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Instagram, Music & Entertainment, News
Newport native Tanya Donelly and Belly deliver sold-out performance at Greenwich Odeum
Newport native Tanya Donelly demonstrated that musical dreams can come true as her alternative rock band Belly thrilled a sold-out crowd at the Greenwich Odeum on Sept. 18, performing their 1993 album “King” in its entirety for the first time. While attending Rogers High School, Donelly and step-sister Kristin Hersh wrote poetry and added melodies […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Newport weekend packed with wine, cars and live music events
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Saturday, Sept. 20, the 263rd day of 2025. There are 104 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Newport is rolling out the red carpet this weekend with its 20th Annual Wine & Food Festival at Rosecliff, running both Saturday and Sunday. The marquee event anchors […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment, News
Christian McBride steps down as Newport Jazz Festival artistic director
Christian McBride, the acclaimed bassist and nine-time Grammy Award winner who has served as artistic director of the Newport Jazz Festival since 2015, announced his resignation Thursday, concluding a transformative decade at the historic festival. McBride, who was personally selected for the role by festival founder George Wein in 2015 and took the artistic reins […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Instagram, Music & Entertainment, Things To Do
What’s happening this weekend in Newport: Sept. 19-21
Newport is serving up the perfect blend of Gilded Age elegance and world-class sailing this weekend as the 20th Annual Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival takes over Rosecliff with three days of seminars, tastings, and celebrity chef dinners, while the 12 Metre North American Championship brings historic America’s Cup yachts to Narragansett Bay for […]
Posted inArts & Culture
newportFILM to screen Sundance award winner after storm disruption
A critically acclaimed documentary that had its outdoor screening cut short by a storm in August will get a second chance on the big screen next week. newportFILM will host a redux screening of “ANDRÉ IS AN IDIOT,” winner of the 2025 Sundance Audience Award, on Thursday, Sept. 25, at the Jane Pickens Theater in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
St. John’s church to host blessing of the animals event Oct. 5
The Zabriskie Memorial Church of Saint John the Evangelist will hold its annual Blessing of the Animals ceremony on Oct. 5, following the 10:30 a.m. Mass. The event, scheduled for the church’s front lawn at 61 Poplar St., invites pet owners to bring their “furry, feathered, or scaled friends” for blessings. Those unable to bring […]
Posted inNews
Notes: IYRS offers chance to win fully restored Beetle Cat in fall raffle
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Friday, Sept. 19, the 262nd day of 2025. There are 105 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The International Yacht Restoration School (IYRS) is giving sailing enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a piece of American maritime history through their latest fundraising raffle. For $150 […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Newport schools seek input on moving 5th grade to elementary
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Thursday, Sept. 18, the 261st day of 2025. There are 106 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Newport Public Schools is forming a work group to study moving fifth-grade students from Thompson Middle School to Pell Elementary School, a change that could take effect in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Art Museum opens tennis-themed exhibition featuring artist-athletes
The Newport Art Museum will open “THE COURT: Art in Play” on Sept. 24, featuring works by seven artists who also compete in court tennis, the historic precursor to modern tennis. The exhibition, organized by internationally recognized artist and court tennis champion Frederika Adam, runs through April 26, 2026, at the Historic Griswold House. It […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Classical announces October chamber concerts featuring acclaimed violinist and piano trio
Newport Classical continues its 2025-2026 Chamber Series this October with two world-class performances at the Newport Classical Recital Hall. Violinist Blake Pouliot and pianist Henry Kramer will take the stage Friday, Oct. 3, at 7:30 p.m., delivering a Romantic program featuring Schumann’s Violin Sonata No. 1, Dvořák’s Zigeunerlieder, and Chausson’s Poème. Pouliot, celebrated by the […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Movies and TV shows casting in Rhode Island
The glitz and glam of Hollywood captures the attention of Americans starting from an early age. Beyond celebrities’ Instagram Stories and red carpet poses, there are actors out there paying their dues and honing their craft in pursuit of a sustainable career or a fulfilling sideline. Submitting to casting calls is a big part of […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Registration now open for inaugural Newport Winter 10K
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Wednesday, Sept. 17, the 260th day of 2025. There are 107 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Newport runners can now lace up their winter gear for a brand-new racing experience as registration opens today for the inaugural Newport Winter 10K presented by Fitzpatrick Team […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Hollywood icon Robert Redford dies at 89; had deep Newport ties
Robert Redford, the golden-haired Hollywood icon whose magnetic screen presence defined American cinema for generations, died Tuesday morning at his Utah home. He was 89. The Oscar-winning actor and director maintained a special connection to Newport that spanned 42 years — from his star-making role in “The Great Gatsby” to his heartfelt 2016 thank-you letter […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Middletown Center development project heads to public hearing Tuesday
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Tuesday, Sept. 16, the 259th day of 2025. There are 106 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Middletown Center Development Project Heads to Public Hearing Tuesday (Credit: Town of Middletown) The Town Council will hold a public hearing Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the Middletown […]
Posted inArts & Culture
‘Water Brother: The Sid Abbruzzi Story’ now available for digital purchase and rental
The highly anticipated documentary “Water Brother: The Sid Abbruzzi Story” is now available for purchase and rental on major digital platforms, bringing the story of Newport’s legendary surfer and skater to audiences worldwide. The 90-minute film, directed by Charles and Daniel Kinnane and produced by Kinnane Brothers studio, premiered at Fort Adams State Park in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Your guide to Newport County’s fall concerts
Newport County’s fall music calendar features performances from Sept. 22 through Dec. 21 across historic venues throughout the region. From chamber music in mansions to folk rock in restored theaters, here are the standout shows: JPT Film & Event Center The JPT Film & Event Center presents a diverse fall lineup through Spectacle Live. The Breakers perform […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Preservation Society to host variety of fall programs
NEWPORT — The Preservation Society of Newport County will host fall programs covering subjects from architecture and art to mooncakes and outer space. “A Closer Look at Richard Morris Hunt” will be presented by Leslie Jones, director of museum affairs and chief curator for The Preservation Society of Newport County, on Thursday, Sept. 25, at […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Newport City Council meets tonight at Pell Elementary School
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Monday, Sept. 15, the 258th day of 2025. There are 107 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Looking at the City of Newport’s latest newsletter, two items stand out for residents: Free Composting Program Launches for Newport Residents Newport has partnered with 11th Hour Racing, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Grammy Winner Lori McKenna delivers intimate performance at sold-out JPT Film & Event Center
Lori McKenna has been quietly creating song stories from her kitchen for decades. Her songs resonate with all and touch the heart with their vivid, easily identifiable characters, often found within ourselves. She has a true gift which has been recognized by many in the industry, and who have recorded her work, launching the Stoughton […]
Posted inArts & Culture
URI launches study abroad program honoring late Newport resident Earl Smith
The University of Rhode Island launched its inaugural Earl N. Smith III Cabo Verde Study Abroad Program this summer, honoring a beloved former assistant dean who was a Newport resident, according to URI. Eleven URI students traveled to Cabo Verde as part of the program that celebrates Smith’s commitment to social justice and cross-cultural understanding. […]
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Notes: St. Mary’s Church marks 72nd anniversary of Kennedy wedding today
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Thursday, September 11, the 254th day of 2025. There are 111 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know St. Mary’s Church will commemorate the 72nd anniversary of Sen. John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier’s wedding today with two presentations recreating their Sept. 12, 1953, ceremony at […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jazz meets Shakespeare in Newport concert series
Puddingstone Music will launch a new concert series this fall combining jazz performances with Shakespeare readings, the organization announced Thursday. The “Jazz and Shakespeare” series will feature two performances at Newport venues, blending live music with dramatic readings of the playwright’s monologues and sonnets. The series opens Sept. 28 at 3 p.m. at Provence Sur […]
Posted inNews
Notes: 55th Annual Newport Boat Show headlines busy weekend of events
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Thursday, September 11, the 254th day of 2025. There are 111 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The 55th Annual Newport International Boat Show opens Thursday, anchoring a weekend filled with diverse entertainment options across the Newport region. The prestigious boat show, running through Sunday, […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Newport City Council’s meeting tonight has been cancelled
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Wednesday, Sept. 10, the 253rd day of 2025. There are 112 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Tonight’s Newport City Council meeting has been cancelled and will be rescheduled as soon as possible, according to a notice sent by the city’s communications department at 3:21 p.m. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival offers fine dining experiences at local restaurants
Five restaurants in Newport and Jamestown will offer exclusive dining and tasting experiences as part of the 20th annual Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival, Sept. 18-21. The participating establishments are taking reservations for one-time offerings Thursday through Saturday. The restaurants include 41° North – The Grill; Cara at The Chanler at Cliff Walk; Beech […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Education documentary to premiere at newportFILM
A documentary examining innovative approaches to American education will have its world premiere Thursday, Sept. 18, at 7 p.m. at Salve Regina University through newportFILM. “Multiple Choice,” produced by Ted Dintersmith, follows students and teachers at the Emil & Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center in Winchester, Virginia. The program integrates career-based learning with traditional academics in […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Jamestown Arts Center to screen Manhattan Short Film Festival as Rhode Island’s sole venue
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Tuesday, Sept. 9, the 252nd day of 2025. There are 113 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Jamestown Arts Center will serve as Rhode Island’s exclusive venue for the 27th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival, screening 10 international finalists from Sept. 26 through Oct. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Rose Island opens doors to public for artist residency showcase
Seven Rhode Island artists working on Rose Island will showcase their creations to the public Saturday as part of the third annual Rose Island Artist Residency program. The artists — Ryan Miech, Joseph Marchesi, Xander Marro, Isabella Uliasz, Welder Vasquez, Madeline Walent and Allison Wilbur — began their six-night residency Monday and will open their […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Narragansett Bay Chorus to perform at St. Columba’s Chapel
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Monday, Sept. 8, the 251st day of 2025. There are 114 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Narragansett Bay Chorus will perform its 13th annual concert at St. Columba’s Chapel in Middletown on Sept. 28, bringing four-part harmony and barbershop tradition to the historic […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Downton Abbey finale to debut in Newport, benefit PBS
Ten years after the prominent historical drama series concluded, the Crawley family is set for a new chapter on the silver screen. The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center will host an early screening gala for the new film, Downton Abbey: The Grande Finale, on Sept. 10. The event will benefit Rhode Island PBS and […]
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Notes: Express ferry service launches for Newport International Boat Show
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Thursday, Sept. 4, the 247th day of 2025. There are 118 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Jamestown Newport Ferry will provide express service to the Newport International Boat Show, offering visitors a convenient alternative to navigating downtown traffic and parking challenges during one […]
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Notes: Newport String Project opens season 13 with Pocket Concerts Sept. 21
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Wednesday, Sept. 3, the 246th day of 2025. There are 119 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Newport String Project will celebrate the opening of its 13th season with Pocket Concerts, a day-long series of intimate micro-concerts featuring the Newport String Quartet and special […]
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Things to do this week and weekend in Newport: Sept. 2 – 7
Newport County offers a diverse lineup of events this week, from cultural attractions to outdoor activities and live entertainment. Highlights include Colonial Jewish Walking Tours running daily at the Loeb Visitors Center, Third Beach Yoga sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and the Secret Garden Tour at Belcourt of Newport from Friday through Sunday. Music […]
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Notes: Amica Newport Marathon partners with 11th Hour Racing for second year of sustainability efforts
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Tuesday, Sept. 2, the 245th day of 2025. There are 120 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Amica Newport Marathon is expanding its environmental initiatives for the second consecutive year through a continued partnership with 11th Hour Racing as the event’s official sustainability partner. […]
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Newport Historical Society’s black history database now reaches millions through partnership
The Newport Historical Society’s groundbreaking research on Black and Indigenous history has gained a dramatically wider audience through a new partnership with American Ancestors, the digital platform of the New England Historic Genealogical Society. The collaboration publishes the Newport Historical Society’s “Voices from the NHS Archives” database as part of American Ancestors’ 10 Million Names […]
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Notes: Navy lab’s summer STEM program gives 50 students hands-on engineering experience
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Thursday, Aug. 28, the 240th day of 2025. There are 125 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport welcomed 50 high school students from six states and Washington, D.C., to build and program remotely operated vehicles during two three-week […]
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Tiverton Library to screen documentary on addiction recovery
The Tiverton Public Library will host a free screening of “Beyond the Finish Line,” a documentary about addiction recovery and hope, on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Filmmaker Doug Fingliss will present his deeply personal film and lead a discussion following the screening at the library at 34 Roosevelt Avenue. The event, held in honor of […]
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Notes: Newport Pride’s Velvet Ball returns to Ochre Court with Moulin Rouge theme
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Wednesday, Aug. 27, the 239th day of 2025. There are 126 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Newport Pride announced its annual Velvet Ball will return Saturday, Oct. 25, at the historic Ochre Court Mansion at Salve Regina University. This year’s event will draw inspiration […]
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Audrain Newport Concours unveils Jay Leno, Ford CEO for seminars
Television personality Jay Leno and Ford Motor Co. CEO Jim Farley will headline the 2025 Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week Speaker Series, organizers announced Tuesday. The seminars will run Oct. 3-4 at the historic Casino Theater on the International Tennis Hall of Fame grounds, featuring automotive industry leaders and celebrities discussing car culture and […]
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Irish music duo to close Friends of the Waterfront summer concert series
Two Irish music groups will bring the curtain down on Newport’s summer concert series with a free waterfront performance Saturday afternoon. Turas and Rhode To Dublin are scheduled to perform from 4 to 6 p.m. at the King Park Gazebo, marking the final show in the 2025 summer series presented by Friends of the Waterfront […]
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Notes: Historic Jamestown regatta returns for 98th year this weekend
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Tuesday, Aug. 26, the 238th day of 2025. There are 127 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Nearly a century after its inaugural race, one of Narragansett Bay’s most storied sailing competitions will take center stage this Labor Day weekend as Conanicut Yacht Club hosts […]
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What’s Up this week in Newport County: Aug. 25 – Sept. 1
Newport County is closing out August with a robust slate of entertainment and community activities, offering something for every interest as the summer season draws to a close. The week’s events span from outdoor concerts and farmers markets to specialized tours and recreational activities across multiple municipalities. Music enthusiasts will find particularly strong offerings, with […]
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Notes: Rhode Island officials to hold press conference opposing Trump wind project halt
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Monday, Aug. 25, the 237th day of 2025. There are 128 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont on Saturday criticized President Donald Trump’s order to halt construction on the Revolution Wind offshore project, which is […]
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Tennis Hall of Fame closed out a momentous Induction with Serenapova and a rockin’ concert
Every International Tennis Hall of Fame (ITHF) Induction Celebration is special and it’s a huge privilege to see these icons of the sport honored right here in Newport. This year’s event was different, separating the celebration from the tournament, and placing it later on the Newport summer calendar in August. But ITHF delivered a show-stopping […]
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Morning Notes: Community investment fund brings final tour stop to Middletown
Good morning, Newport! 👋 Today is Sunday, Aug. 24, the 236th day of 2025. There are 129 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Rhode Island’s first community investment fund will conclude its summer coffee shop tour Wednesday at Custom House Coffee in Middletown, bringing its community outreach effort to Aquidneck Island […]