IYRS School of Technology & Trades is accepting applications from artisans and small businesses for its Artisan Holiday Market on Saturday, Dec. 5, part of the school’s annual Holly Jolly Weekend on its Thames Street waterfront campus. The market is open to makers selling handmade goods, fine art, jewelry, home décor, specialty food products and […]
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Posted inArts & Culture
Antique rug scholar Peter Pap brings illustrated lecture and trunk show to Tiverton Four Corners Arts Center in August
The Tiverton Four Corners Arts Center will host an illustrated lecture by internationally recognized rug scholar Peter Pap on Tuesday, August 4, followed by the arts center’s inaugural Antique Rug Trunk Show August 5–7. Pap’s lecture, Understanding Antique Rugs: Exploring the History and Learning the Finer Points of Color and Design in Rugs Woven Before […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Rhode Island releases 2025 holiday ornament honoring nation’s first integrated regiment
A new commemorative holiday ornament honoring soldiers from the nation’s first integrated military regiment is now available from Rhode Island’s semiquincentennial commission. Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore, who chairs the Rhode Island Semiquincentennial 250th Commission, announced Friday the release of the 2025 limited-edition ornament featuring the First Rhode Island Regiment. The ornament depicts six […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jamestown Chamber announces holiday events, including Santa’s boat arrival
The Jamestown Chamber of Commerce has announced its lineup of holiday events for 2025, featuring a red ticket promotion, holiday stroll and visits with Santa. Beginning Thursday, Nov. 28, participating retailers and restaurants will distribute a red ticket for every $50 spent in Jamestown Village. At restaurants, red tickets are awarded for gift card purchases […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Historical Society to launch holiday market at Colony House
The Newport Historical Society will debut a holiday market at the Colony House on Friday, opening a new seasonal shopping destination in one of the city’s most historic buildings. The market will run through Dec. 31, operating Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday through Sunday until 6 p.m. “The Holiday […]
Posted inInstagram, Nonprofit, Style & Shop
Rogers High School class of 2026 to hold t-shirt sale Oct. 24
The Rogers High School Class of 2026 will host a T-shirt sale on Friday, Oct. 24, on the school’s front steps from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring a collaborative design with local surf brand Waterbrothers. The fundraiser is made possible through The BonRock Foundation, established by the Kilroy family in memory of their mother, […]
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
Luxury fashion and skincare pop-up coming to Newport this month
Sandee Saunders is bringing a touch of luxury to Newport with an exclusive three-day pop-up event showcasing high-end fashion and Swiss skincare later this month. The Creative Director of SandeeGLAM CONCEPTS, who also serves as Brand Ambassador and Business Manager for Bellefontaine Switzerland, is partnering with celebrated fashion designers Michael and Alex Toccin of the […]
Posted inStyle & Shop, Things To Do
Unwanted student ‘treasures’ help stock largest yard sale on Aquidneck Island
The 20th Annual Ramleh Benefit Yard Sale will take place at St. George’s School’s Cabot-Harman Ice Center, 384 Purgatory Road, Middletown, on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. This event is free and open to the public. A public presale event will be held on Friday, July 6, 2025, from 3:30-5:30 […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Luxury Meets Seaside Chic: Fashion Pop-Up coming to The Chanler at Cliff Walk in June
The Chanler at Cliff Walk is gearing up for a Mediterranean-inspired fashion pop-up on June 27 and 28. The event will showcase curated women’s wear from independent designers. Teaming up with luxury women’s boutique Nocca, the hotel is transforming its Cliff Lawn into a seaside shopping haven. Both guests and locals can browse a collection […]
Posted inBusiness
Big Weather Gear officially opens on Thames Street
Newport’s retail landscape has a new—but familiar—face. Local entrepreneur and longtime Thames Street fixture Jay Lasky has launched Big Weather Gear, a fresh retail concept rooted in his decades-long passion for outdoor and marine apparel. This new venture brings together top performance brands and lifestyle wear under one roof, offering something for everyone who lives, […]
Posted inColumns
Michele Gallagher: It takes a matriarchal village to make a shop feel like a home
May is busting out all over! And we couldn’t be happier. As the founder of ThamesGiving in Newport, I’ve had the joy of connecting with many savvy, creative business owners across the Thames Street District. One thing that stands out is how many of these businesses are run by mother-daughter duos and trios! For this […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Charter Books to celebrate 4th birthday on Independent Bookstore Day, Saturday, April 26
A nationwide celebration of all things literary is returning to Newport on April 26. Independent Bookstore Day honors bookstores across the country annually on the final Friday in April with exclusive books, contests, author appearances, and special treats for visitors. We spoke to Steve Iwanski at Charter Books in Newport to learn more about what […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Artists Collective and University Orthopedics collaborate to showcase local art in Middletown facility
The Newport Artists Collective (NAC) has announced a partnership with University Orthopedics to exhibit NAC members’ artwork in the newly opened 10,000-square-foot facility located at 34 Valley Road, Middletown. This collaboration aims to enhance the healing environment for patients and staff by integrating local art into the medical setting. The spacious facility offers the potential […]
Posted inBusiness
Helly Hansen to open new flagship store in Newport
Helly Hansen, a leading global sailing and outdoor brand, is set to open a new flagship store in Newport in March 2025. The store, located at 124 Thames Street (formerly a Banana Republic), will offer a broader range of technical sailing apparel and footwear, as well as marine lifestyle, winter sports, and outdoor products. The […]
Posted inCity & Government
Rhode Island Semiquincentennial 250th Commission releases commemorative holiday ornament
Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore, chair of the Rhode Island Semiquincentennial 250th Commission (RI250), today announced the release of the 2024 semiquincentennial commemorative holiday ornament, now available at the RI State House Visitor Center and Gift Shop. This year’s limited-edition ornament highlights Rhode Island’s founding principle of religious freedom, featuring four iconic landmarks: The First […]
Posted inFood & Drink
RI craft brewery holiday ales are out – Narragansett’s Bing Crosby Winter Warmer leads the way
Cold temps got you down? Well, it’s the time of the year to enjoy a rich, delicious winter holiday ale at a local craft brewery. Several breweries around the state are serving up some tasty brews, mostly limited annual runs, so get there soon! Holiday ales tend to be on the sweet side, and many […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Rogers High School to host 3rd Annual Holiday Craft Fair
The Rogers High School Holiday Craft & Artisan Fair is set to return for its third year on Saturday, December 14, 2024. The event, sponsored by the RHS Class of 2026, will take place at Rogers High School from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This seasonal celebration of creativity and craftsmanship aims to showcase a […]
Posted inThings To Do
Long Wharf Mall welcomes holiday season with tree lighting and Santa visit on Nov. 30
The Shops at Long Wharf Mall will kick off the holiday season in style on Nov. 30 with a tree-lighting ceremony and an appearance by Santa. From 4 to 6 pm, visitors can enjoy the dazzling display as the Long Wharf Christmas Tree lights up the night. Santa and his helper will be on hand […]
Posted inArts & Culture
More than twenty local artists participating in Save The Bay’s ‘Artists for The Bay’ virtual sale
Just in time for the holiday season, Save The Bay’s Artists for the Bay Sale has announced the launch of its annual virtual fundraiser, Artists for the Bay, which showcases local art and supports coastal conservation. The online art sale will run from November 15 through December 31, 2024. In celebration of Narragansett Bay’s beauty […]
Posted inArts & Culture
IYRS School of Technology & Trades to host ‘Holly Jolly Weekend’
IYRS School of Technology & Trades has announced that it will host its Holly Jolly Weekend on Dec. 6-7, 2024. The weekend kicks off with the IYRS Community Holiday Party on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, from 5:30-7:30 p.m, in Restoration Hall at IYRS. The weekend continues with the IYRS Artisan Holiday Market on Saturday, Dec. […]
Posted inBusiness
Jewelry designer Carolyn Rafaelian partners with Snoop Dogg for new brand
Carolyn Rafaelian, the renowned jewelry designer and founder of Metal Alchemist, is teaming up with rapper Snoop Dogg to launch a new fine jewelry brand called Lovechild. The collaboration, facilitated by Larry Jackson of gamma., aims to create jewelry that goes beyond aesthetics to serve as a source of empowerment for wearers. Lovechild is described […]
Posted inBusiness
Yacht Club introduces ‘Sour Grapes’ soda based on comic strip from cartoonist Tim Jones
In an unlikely collaboration, a popular comic strip from local cartoonist (and What’s Up Newp contributor) Tim Jones is now a tasty beverage from a local business. Perhaps not so unlikely, when you hear the details. If you haven’t read it here on What’s Up Newp, where Jones’ strip runs weekly, Sour Grapes centers around […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Roslovic, Svechnikov each score twice to help the Hurricanes rout the Bruins 8-2
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Jack Roslovic and Andrei Svechnikov each scored twice and the Carolina Hurricanes returned home for the first time in more than two weeks to rout the Boston Bruins 8-2 on Thursday night for their fifth straight victory. Carolina scored three times in a 52-second span in its four-goal first period. Martin […]
Posted inBusiness
Newport City Council to consider resolution that would help small businesses this holiday season
A new resolution to support local retail businesses during the holiday shopping season is on the agenda for the Newport City Council meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 23. Several city councilors are behind this proposal, which aims to encourage shopping in Newport, especially in areas with smaller, boutique shops. These local businesses often struggle to compete […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Arnya Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner’s championship kits on display at the International Tennis Hall of Fame
Autographed Nike apparel from both champions from the US Open sit alongside the apparel worn by Sabalenka and Sinner during their title runs at the Australian Open at the International Tennis Hall of Fame. For the first time since 1988, when Hall of Famers Mats Wilander and Steffi Graf prevailed, the men’s and women’s singles champions […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Portsmouth author explores grief and transformation in ‘Leah Is A Dragonfly Now’
A new picture book from Portsmouth author Sarah McLean will tell the story of a friendship that was built after a tragic accident. “Leah Is A Dragonfly Now” is a moving story that deals with grief and loss. The book is based on the award-winning short film “Dragonfly,” and it follows the story of two […]
Posted inNews
The Newport Show returns July 27 – 28
A highlight of the summer season in Aquidneck Island is just around the corner. The Newport Show returns to St. George’s School Ice Rink July 27th and 28th. This event is not to be missed if you love fine art, antique furniture, and vintage jewelry. The Newport Show is also a fundraiser for the Newport […]
Posted inNews, Style & Shop
Historic utility AND high fashion. 80-year-old LL Bean staple finds a new audience as a trendy bag
FREEPORT, Maine (AP) — L.L. Bean created it 80 years ago to haul heavy blocks of ice. Now it’s a must-have summer fashion accessory. The simple, sturdy canvas bag called the Boat and Tote is having an extended moment 80 years after its introduction, thanks to a social media trend in which they’re monogrammed with […]
Posted inBusiness
Club Calais announces store closing
Club Calais, a popular women’s clothing store located at 198 Bellevue Avenue in Newport, for the last 19 years, will close its doors for good later this summer. Formerly known as Laura Jean Denim, the store originally opened in 2005 on William St, and specialized in women’s designer denim and boots. In later years, it […]
Posted inNews
Bob’s Stores announces going-out-of-business sale across all locations
Struggling apparel and accessories retailer Bob’s Stores has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and liquidation sales began on Friday, June 28 across all of its locations. The company, which operates more than 10 stores in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island, said in a news release that it was […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Book Review: An unarmed game warden tracks a killer through the Maine wilderness in ‘Pitch Dark’
By BRUCE DESILVA Associated Press Heavy storms have made much of northern Maine impassible. Streams and rivers are overflowing their banks, and logging roads and forest trails are crisscrossed with toppled trees. It’s no time to go exploring or hunting, so why has a heavily armed stranger rented an ATV and disappeared into the wilderness? […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Annabelle’s gentle spirit and loving nature make her an ideal companion
Meet your new best friend, Annabelle – this week’s adoptable cat of the week. Annabelle, an 8-year-old female Domestic Longhair, is available at the Potter League for Animals Animal Care and Adoption Center in Middletown. “Meet Annabelle, a senior cat with a heart full of love! Her sweet nature and friendly demeanor make her a […]
Posted inNews
U.S. Senior Open Merchandise Pavilion will open to the public for a one-day pre-championship sale on June 23
Special apparel designs and accessories that are exclusive to this year’s U.S. Senior Open Championship will be available to the public on Sunday, June 23. The pre-championship sale is open from 10 a.m.-3:45 p.m. EDT, at the U.S. Senior Open Merchandise Pavilion located at Newport (R.I.) Country Club. The 44th edition of the championship, conducted […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Yupe, a ‘pretty brindle potcake from the Bahamas’, seeks a loving home
Meet your new best friend, Yupe – this week’s adoptable dog of the week. Yupe, a 3-year-old female mixed breed, is currently available for adoption at the Potter League for Animals in Middletown. “Yupe is a pretty brindle potcake from the Bahamas,” the Potter League for Animals shares on its website. “Though we have no […]
Posted inBusiness
What’s in Season: Strawberries are ripe for picking at Quonset View Farm
The signs are up on East Main Road and scattered throughout Portsmouth: U Pick Strawberries. They seem to appear magically overnight, and for children in the public schools, it is the first sign that the school year is drawing to a close. In this way, you can literally taste summer. Leading traffic from sign to […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Discover Newport: What’s new this summer from The Classic Coast of Newport, Rhode Island
Discover Newport announces new and seasonal happenings for the summer inviting both visitors and locals to revel in “America’s Summer Playground,” with exciting hotel renovations including the Newport Harbor Island Resort, the new home of Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium, art galleries, culinary jaunts and more. “Summer brings about unparalleled beauty and excitement to our […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Dan Hassett, founder of the Levitate Music and Arts Festival
One of the more popular music festivals in the region returns to Marshfield, MA, the weekend of July 5-7 with a stacked lineup. The Levitate Music and Arts Festival celebrates its 11th year at the Marshfield fairgrounds with headliners Sublime, Lake Street Dive, and Mt. Joy. The story is certainly about a great weekend of […]
Posted inThings To Do
Newport-themed MONOPOLY unveiled at Audrain Auto Museum
Move over Atlantic City – there’s a new board game in town. If you’ve ever wanted to buy a hotel on Bellevue Ave., we got you covered – as long as you do it on family game night. MONOPOLY: Newport Edition was introduced today in a brief ceremony at Audrain Auto Museum, an event that […]
Posted inNews
Green Animals Topiary Garden to hold plant sale, open for the season
Looking for a Mother’s Day gift or locally grown plants to enliven your own home and garden? The annual Plant Sale at Green Animals Topiary Garden will offer a variety of flowers, vegetables, herbs and specialty plants on three successive mornings, Friday, May 10, through Sunday, May 12, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. each […]
Posted inStyle & Shop, Things To Do
30th Annual Summer Farmers Market launches on May 4
Aquidneck Community Table (ACT) announces the launch of its popular Saturday Summer Farmers Market on May 4, 2024. The market, which features local agricultural and artisanal goods, will be held weekly from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 25 Enterprise Drive in Middletown through October 26, 2024. New this season, the market welcomes local favorites: the […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Independent Bookstore Day returns Saturday, April 27 with specials and events at local bookstores
Bookstore fans – your day is almost here! Saturday, April 27th is Independent Bookstore Day, a day to celebrate and shop at your local independently-owned bookstore. IBD is a one-day national party that takes place at indie bookstores across the country every year. Bookstores large and small around the region have special events planned for […]
Posted inNews
Record Store Day celebrates indie retail music sellers as they ride vinyl’s popularity wave
By ANITA SNOW Associated Press PHOENIX (AP) — Special LP releases, live performances and at least one giant block party are scheduled around the U.S. Saturday as hundreds of shops celebrate Record Store Day during a surge of interest in vinyl and the day after the release of Taylor Swift’s latest album. There were no announced […]
Posted inNews
Providence Flea finds new home at 195 District Park
The Providence Flea will be moving to a new location at 195 District Park on the west side of the park for the 2024 season. The flea market is a weekly outdoor summer market that runs every Sunday in downtown Providence from June 2 to September 15. “We have enjoyed a good partnership with the […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Bloom Flower & Home returns to Providence with three days of plants, flowers, and fun
Calling all plant and nature lovers! Bloom Flower & Home is just around the corner! This three-day event, which takes place on April 6-7, 2023 at WaterFire Arts Center in Providence, Rhode Island, is a celebration of spring with 85+ small and independent plant shops, florists, retailers, makers, and artists from New England and beyond. […]
Posted inNews
Meet Rhode Island ‘leaplings’ – Born on February 29, a select few celebrate their birthday every four years
It only happens once every four years. No, we’re not talking about the Summer Olympics or the presidential elections, although both are on the same cycle as this calendric event. We’re talking about “Leap Day,” of course, February 29th, which occurs every fourth year during Leap Year. First, I confess that I have an inside […]
Posted inNews
Ho-Ho-Hold on!: Unwrapping the most desired Christmas 2023 gifts
It’s that time of the year again—Christmas is upon us! Do you have any Christmas gift ideas this year? As someone who once gifted their dad a pair of socks that were a size too small (oops, sorry, Dad!), I’ve realized that gift-giving can be a total nightmare. Some would say giving your boo a […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
‘Six Picks’ holiday book shopping: Books about Newport
With the holiday shopping season reaching its peak over the next couple of weekends, now is the time to shop. Here are a few ideas for the book lover in your life; Newport-themed books curated by Charter Books owner Steve Iwanski, for you to add to your collection. Happy shopping! Newport Cottages 1835-1890: The Summer […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Shop Local: Ten stylish apparel shops for holiday shopping in Newport
Looking for a unique apparel gift this holiday season? Why not support Newport-area merchants by shopping for clothing locally? Here are a few ideas to get you started. Michael Hayes Newport features a curated selection of designer brands like Coppley, Eton, Veronica Beard, and Canali, from casual to elegant evening wear for men and women. […]
Posted inStyle & Shop, Things To Do
St. Augustin’s and St. Mary’s to host a ‘Christmas Extravaganza’ on Dec. 2
Sister parishes St. Augustin’s and St. Mary’s are joining forces to present their inaugural “Christmas Extravaganza” on Saturday, December 2, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.Stop by St. Augustin’s Church Hall, corner of Carroll Avenue and Harrison Avenue for holiday fun and something for everyone on your list. The bazaar will feature:- Photo Opps with […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Shop Local: Ten book, art, and gift shops in Newport and beyond
The holiday shopping season is upon us. Before heading out to the big box stores or ordering online, check out the dozens of local options for finding great gifts for family and friends. Each week between now and Christmas, we’ll select ten of our favorites in different categories from Aquidneck Island and beyond. This week, […]
Posted inBusiness
Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, Rhode Island Foundation, and community partners kick off Buy Local RI Campaign
The iconic Buy Local chicken will have a new place to roost as the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau (PWCVB) announced Tuesday it is officially managing the Buy Local RI brand. The PWCVB was joined by the Rhode Island Foundation, BankNewport, Dave’s Fresh Marketplace, Frog & Toad and community partners to make the announcement […]
Posted inBusiness
How to support small businesses this holiday season
Are you ready for the holiday shopping season? You’re not alone: More than 9 in 10 U.S. consumers plan to celebrate winter holidays and are collectively poised to spend around $960 billion, according to National Retail Federation data. The holidays are the most crucial time of year for many small businesses. Up to 65% of […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newportopoly© celebrates its 10th Anniversary with a limited edition release
Newportopoly©, the beloved property trading board game, is marking its milestone tenth anniversary with the release of a special limited edition. Developed in 2014 by The Choir School of Newport County as a fundraiser for its international educational travel fund, the game has become a local favorite. Now, to commemorate a decade of success, the […]
Posted inStyle & Shop, Things To Do
30+ local artists support Save The Bay in the 2023 Artists for The Bay Sale
Just in time for the holiday season, Save The Bay’s Artists for The Bay Sale is now open and will run through December 31. In celebration of the beauty of Narragansett Bay, and in support of the nonprofit organization’s mission to protect and improve it, more than 30 local artists have committed to contributing 25 […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Jamestown Arts Center to host Holiday Arts Market Dec. 8 – 9
As the holiday season approaches, the Jamestown Arts Center will hold their annual Holiday Arts Market on Friday, December 8, 5:30—7:30 pm and Saturday, December 9, 10 am—4 pm. A selection of 20 artists, alongside talents from Out of the Box Studio & Gallery and JAC-affiliated artists, will present a range of fine art and crafts […]
Posted inNews
West Place Animal Sanctuary to host Holiday Shop & Stroll Nov. 24 – 26
West Place Animal Sanctuary in Tiverton is opening its gates Friday, November 24 through Sunday, November 26 for its third and final visitors’ weekend of 2023. Stroll the historic sanctuary grounds and visit the furred and feathered farm animal rescues before winter arrives. Explore the expanded gift shop to find the perfect item for the […]
Posted inBusiness
Newport rolls out the gilded carpet on Thursdays in November for holiday shopping, socializing, and giving back
Newport has long had the reputation of going dark after boats leave the harbor and before the calendar year turns. Late in the year, the waterfront city’s lively shops, restaurants, hotels, and bars transition to a quieter schedule. This November promises to be different! This year, more than 80 of the city’s stores, restaurants, and […]
Posted inNews
Potatoes, chicken, and other groceries that dropped in price in September
Grocery shoppers felt a slight reprieve this spring as grocery prices fell after a run of increases dating to September 2020. So far since then, grocery prices have remained relatively steady, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. In September, prices inflated by 0.1% compared to August, and were up 2.4% from September 2022. Prices […]
Posted inNews
Grapefruit, lettuce, and other groceries that rose in price in September
After more than a year of historical inflation, grocery prices are staying relatively steady. Prices fell in March and April for the first time since September 2020 and have seen more moderate monthly inflation since then. In September, the cost of groceries rose 0.1% over August prices. The drop earlier this spring was largely fueled […]
Posted inNews
Little City Thrifty Vintage Market returns to WaterFire Arts Center October 14 – 15
Recently named “Rhode Island’s Best Flea Market” (Domino Magazine), Little City Thrifty is returning to WaterFire Arts Center in Providence, RI for a curated weekend of indoor vintage and antique shopping on October 14th & 15th!Little City Thrifty’s October event will bring vintage lovers and dealers from far and wide, and will feature over 90 booths […]
Posted inBusiness
Christmas Tree Shops stores closing in Middletown and Warwick, hosting Going Out of Business sales
Going Out of Business sales have commenced across all remaining Christmas Tree Shops store locations nationwide, including their two locations in Rhode Island – Middletown and Warwick. The liquidation event is being managed by Hilco Merchant Resources. At the Going Out of Business sales, shoppers can take advantage of discounts up to 50 percent off […]
Posted inFood & Drink, Style & Shop
Discover what’s new in local food at Hope & Main’s Schoolyard Market
If you’re not hanging out in the Schoolyard at Hope & Main on Wednesday evenings with a craft cocktail or mocktail and a freshly fried falafel pocket, Korean corn dog, or Rhode Island’s only Ethiopian food, well, you’re missing out! The food incubator’s Schoolyard Market is Warren’s weekly neighborhood block party in the middle of […]
Posted inBusiness
The ReFill celebrates its first anniversary with June sale
The ReFill—a store at 42 Spring Street where you can get common household items like laundry detergent, surface cleaners, and beauty products without plastic packaging—will celebrate its first anniversary on June 1st with a month-long sale. They are now added in a bio-degradable packaging by www.eliter-packaging.com. Bring your own containers (BYOC) of any size—empty laundry […]
Posted inThings To Do
‘Six Picks’ Events: What’s Up in RI this weekend (May 12-14)
Get ready for a very busy Mother’s Day weekend with events happening all over Rhode Island. Here are a few good ones in our weekly column, “Six Picks Events.” All Weekend: Celebrate sailing and more and this weekend with nine days of fun at the Ocean Race Stopover at Fort Adams State Park in Newport. […]
Posted inStyle & Shop, Things To Do
Green Animals Topiary Garden to host Plant Sale, May 11-13
In time for spring gardening – and Mother’s Day – The Preservation Society of Newport County today announced that a variety of flowers, vegetables, herbs, and specialty plants will be for sale at Green Animals Topiary Garden, on May 11, 12, and 13 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Floral offerings will include annuals, perennials, […]
Posted inStyle & Shop, Things To Do
Newport In Bloom to host its Annual Plant Sale on May 21
Newport in Bloom announces the date of its eagerly awaited Annual Spring Plant Sale. In addition to locally grown plants, herbs/vegetables, and colorful hanging baskets, out-of-state growers will provide a variety of unique and hard-to-find annuals, perennials, and succulents to enhance your gardens and containers. All proceeds support Newport in Bloom’s beautification efforts, including the decorative hanging flower baskets that […]
Posted inFood & Drink, Style & Shop
Saturday farmers market opens in Middletown on May 6 with new vendors and activities
An exciting lineup of new and returning vendors will join Aquidneck Community Table’s Saturday market when it moves outdoors to Middletown on Saturday, May 6. Open from nine to noon every Saturday morning through October, the attractive Embrace Home Loans campus at 25 Enterprise Drive in Middletown – conveniently located between Middletown Town Hall and […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Independent Bookstore Day to celebrate its 10th anniversary Saturday, April 29
Indie bookstore fans – your day is almost here! Saturday, April 29, is Independent Bookstore Day, a day to celebrate and shop at your local independently-owned bookstore. IBD is a one-day national party at indie bookstores nationwide held annually since 2014. Bookstores large and small around the region have special events planned for Saturday. We spoke […]
Posted inBusiness, Style & Shop
Helly Hansen Newport celebrating its 25th Anniversary
Helly Hansen Newport commemorates its 25th anniversary on April 19, 2023, with weeklong celebrations as the oldest licensed Helly Hansen store in North America. Reflecting on 25 years in this historic sailing destination, Newport Rhode Island, the Helly Hansen Newport crew recall participating in iconic races and regattas such as the Volvo Ocean Race and […]
Posted inNews
From Polaroids to Instant Pots: Every year’s must-have shopping fad since 1973
Shopping has changed over the years—from small, local businesses to big-box stores with global supply chains and the ease of online shopping—but one thing has stayed the same: American consumers don’t want to miss out on the next big thing. In fact, Americans spend an average of nearly $1,500 per month on nonessential items and […]
Posted inNews
Beautiful photos of Christmas markets around the world
Christmas markets are a quintessential holiday tradition in Europe. Nearly every city, regardless of size, likely has at least one open-air bazaar that pops up sometime between mid-November and early December to sell holiday tchotchkes and treats. These advent markets aren’t a modern-day invention, either. They’ve been around for centuries. The first recorded instance dates […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Shop Local – Last minute holiday gift ideas for 2022
As online shipping deadlines approach, your options for gift-buying for the holiday season are becoming more limited. Never fear, local businesses are here to answer the call. Here’s an updated list of stores with all kinds of gifts available for last-minute shoppers. For the Home Kristen Coates – Shop curated holiday gifts in the online shop here or […]
Posted inBusiness
Dine Local, Shop Local: Newport County Dinner Club returns for its 34th year
The Newport County Dinner Club is returning for its 34th year, continuing its mission of making dining out more affordable. The Newport County Dinner Club offers two-for-one dining at more than 50 local restaurants. “This year the Newport County Dinner Club is celebrating 34 years. We have over 50 wonderful restaurants waiting for you. Don’t […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Style & Shop
‘Six Picks’ local music for gifting this holiday season
Here’s a holiday gift idea for the music fan in your life. Buy local music! “Six Picks Local Music, Holiday edition” includes some of our favorite new releases from RI-based artists, plus a few honorable mentions. Tell us your favorites in comments below. Various Artists – Fire Escape Want to get to know some of […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
‘Six Picks’ holiday book shopping: Best books about Newport
With the holiday shopping season reaching its peak over the next couple of weekends, we’ll be sharing some ideas for unique gifts available locally. Here’s a nice list of Newport-related books for you to consider curated by Charter Books proprietor Steve Iwanski. There’s a good mix of fiction and non-fiction, some art, and a little […]
Posted inHistory
Holiday gift crazes and fads of the past century
The holidays are coming, and just like every year before this one, there’s sure to be a new gift craze or fad taking the country by storm. To celebrate, Stacker researched the crazes and fads of years past, from 1919 until today. The information comes from lists of the hardest-to-find and the most popular Christmas […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Craft Fair to be held on Dec. 10, will benefit Rogers High School Class of 2026
Items by local artists and students will be sold at a Craft Fair in the Rogers High School Gym on December 10 from 10 am – 1 pm. Twenty-five vendors will sell wares ranging from local art and photography to upcycled bags/napkins and aprons. There will be handmade jewelry, ornaments, succulents, candles, pottery, and personalized […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jamestown Arts Center to host Holiday Arts Market
Feel festive and support the work of artists and artisans during the annual Holiday Arts Market at the Jamestown Arts Center on Friday, December 9 from 5:30-7:30 pm and Saturday, December 10 from 10 am – 4 pm. This free two-day event features one of a kind art objects from ceramicists, painters, jewelry makers, textile […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Shop Local “Six Picks” – Art and Gift shops in Newport and beyond
The holiday shopping season is upon us. Supply chain issues may impact big box stores, but there are dozens of local options out there for finding great gifts for family and friends. Each week between now and Christmas, we’ll select six of our favorites in different categories from Aquidneck Island and beyond. This week, we […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
The Love Shack by LOLA & Company is now open in Newport
The Love Shack by LOLA & Company is now open in Newport! Visit them at 400 Thames St. to see the entire LOLA jewelry line as well as our popular branded LoveShack clothing & items. Spend $150 or more starting Black Friday (11/25) through Cyber Monday (11/28) and receive 10% off your entire purchase. Visit […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Little City Thrifty Vintage Market returns to WaterFire Arts Center
Little City Thrifty Vintage Market is returning to Providence’s WaterFire Arts Center for another curated weekend of indoor vintage and antiques shopping on October 1st and 2nd, 2022! Recently named “Rhode Island’s Best Flea Market” by national publication Domino Magazine, Little City Thrifty is excited to kick off fall with a second festival, after a […]
Posted inStyle & Shop, Things To Do
Record Store Day coming Saturday, April 23
Don’t worry if you see long lines in odd places Saturday morning. You’ll be witnessing music fans lining up early for the annual event known as Record Store Day. RSD returns Saturday, April 23rd at record stores across RI to the delight of serious vinyl collectors and everyday fans. The first Record Store Day took […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Ocean State Job Lot will offer First Responder Deal Days March 17 – 23
Ocean State Job Lot (OSJL) his week announced that it offer its First Responder Deal Days March 17th through March 23rd. During this period, current or retired first responders who spend a minimum of $20.00 will receive 40% of their purchase price back on a Crazy Deal Gift Card. First responders are also invited to pick up free hand sanitizer, hand wipes, disinfecting wipes, […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Style & Shop
“Six Picks” Gifts: Shop local for last-minute gifts
Last-minute shopping got ya down? Never fear – we’ve got a few favorites with fun gift ideas who are open through Christmas Eve. Here’s your chance to shop local! Newport Music opened this summer at 142 Bellevue Ave at the intersection with Memorial Drive. The store is well stocked for the holidays with gifts ranging […]
Posted inFood & Drink, Style & Shop
Aquidneck Community Table to host special holiday market
Mark the calendar for Aquidneck Community Table’s last Wednesday market of the season on December 22nd! Don’t miss this festive Holiday Market at Stoneacre Garden, the last chance to shop the freshest and local options before the market takes a winter break. Think of shopping for gifts from vendors, in addition to the great gifts […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Best local spots for last-minute holiday shopping
Need some last-minute holiday shopping ideas that support local businesses? We’ve got you covered. Check out this list of local spots where you’ll find plenty of items and gift certificates for everyone on your holiday shopping list. With most businesses now set up with online stores, shopping local is easier and more convenient than ever. […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Style & Shop
Kings Lens and Friends features Janie Kinnane Block Prints
This week, the Kings Lens and Friends revolving art gallery features the work of Little Compton artist Janie Kinnane. Kinnane is on a mission to create art for good through her business Charlie Lou, named after her grandfathers. You can view and shop Kinnane’s art at The Kings Lens through December 16th. Follow Janie on […]
Posted inBusiness, Style & Shop
Folk Vintage opens on Spring Street
You may have noticed a funky new storefront on the corner of Spring and Prospect Hill Streets. It belongs to Folk Vintage, owned by Sydney Gordon who recently relocated to Newport from NYC. We had a chance to take a peek inside this 70s-style thrift store and talk with Sydney about the inspiration behind Folk […]
Posted inStyle & Shop, Things To Do
47th Annual Christmas Stroll returns to Nantucket this weekend
The Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce will host its 47th Annual Christmas Stroll Weekend this weekend Friday, December 3 through Sunday, December 5, 2021. Christmas Stroll Weekend features a visit by Santa Claus, Santa’s Village Marketplace, live entertainment, craft shows, tours, local specials. and much more. See a full schedule of Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Style & Shop
Annual Holiday Arts Market returns to the Jamestown Arts Center December 10 – 11
The Jamestown Arts Center is getting festive with the return of the annual Holiday Arts Market and a new community project on the interactive outdoor mural wall. Celebrate the holidays and support the work of artists and artisans during the two-day annual Holiday Arts Market at the JAC (18 Valley Street in Jamestown) on Friday, […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Buy Local “Six Picks” – Local Art and Gift shops
The holiday shopping season is upon us. Supply chain issues aside, there are dozens of options out there for finding great gifts for family and friends. Each week between now and Christmas, we’ll select six of our favorites in different categories from Aquidneck Island and beyond. This week, we present some of our favorite art […]
Posted inFood & Drink, Style & Shop
Special pre-Thanksgiving Farmers Market to be held on Wednesday at Stoneacre Garden
Aquidneck Community Table is holding a special pre-Thanksgiving farmers market this Wednesday from 2 PM -5 PM at their new winter home, Stoneacre Garden in downtown Newport, where market stalls will be brimming with fresh and local ingredients from regional farmers and food vendors for the upcoming Thanksgiving feasts. The selection of foods and artisanal […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Spindle City Fest coming to Fall River Saturday, November 27
FALL RIVER, MA – The Narrows Center for the Arts is pleased to announce the next date for Spindle City Fest – Saturday, November 27th, 2021. The free event runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM and will be held at the Narrows Center located at 16 Anawan Street, Fall River, MA. Spindle City Fest […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
2021 Newport Mansions Exclusive Experiences Summer Auction begins August 9
Step on the mound at Fenway Park and deliver the ceremonial first pitch or host a children’s birthday celebration for up to 20 guests among the whimsical animals at Green Animals Topiary Garden in Portsmouth. These are just two of the offerings in the 2021 Newport Mansions Exclusive Experiences Summer Auction. Online bidding opens Monday, August […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Celebrate Summer on the Avenue: ‘A Bellevue Midsummer Soirée’ to be held on July 10
Kristen Coates, art and interior design consultant, painter, and curator presents A Bellevue Midsummer Soirée, Saturday, July 10, 5-7 pm, at her eponymous gallery at 152 Bellevue Avenue. “Are you sure that we are awake? It seems to me that yet we sleep, we dream.” As William Shakespeare wrote in A Midsummer Night’s Dream many […]
Posted inThings To Do
Sperry launches new ice cream-inspired shoe collection; look for Sperry’s Ice Cream truck in Newport on July 21
Sperry today announced that it is introducing a limited-edition, capsule collection that’s super cool! The Sperry Ice Cream collection for men, women, and kids serves up iconic Sperry silhouettes reinvented in prints of favorite ice cream truck treats from Good Humor and Popsicle. Key footwear styles include the Sperry Striper II sneaker, the all-new EVA Float, […]
Posted inStyle & Shop, Things To Do
Record Store Day returns Saturday, June 12th
Saturday, June 12th is Record Store Day, a day to support local businesses and celebrate the iconic creation known as the vinyl record. As Covid wanes, there are actually two “drops” this year, with a second Record Store Day planned for July 17th. Check out these local participating record stores this year on Saturday, June […]
Posted inThings To Do
Get a haircut and get out this weekend!
With summer almost in full swing, and many businesses opening with scaled back or restrictions lifted altogether, it’s time everyone looked their best after a pandemic-induced hibernation. I visited Don’s Barber Lounge on Canal Street in Westerly recently to remove the mop that took over my scalp. There’s an old-time feel inside with overstuffed leather […]
Posted inBusiness
People’s Credit Union sponsors Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce’s Shop Greater Newport Gift Card Program
People’s Credit Union today announced its sponsorship of the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce’s Shop Greater Newport Gift Card Program. Shop Greater Newport (SGN) is a unique gift card program that encourages consumers to find and choose local businesses on Aquidneck Island, and throughout Newport and Bristol counties. The SGN program features a searchable website directory […]