The state has more than 400 miles of coastline, and is blessed with miles and miles of beautiful beaches. Additionally, one of its main geographical features is the 150 square miles of Narragansett Bay, which also boasts more than thirty scenic islands. It is also the boating and yachting capital of the United States. This all means some of the most popular events in Rhode Island and most sought after Rhode Island activities occur in and on the water. If you want to be part of these events in Rhode Island this should help you plan when to go.

So, let's begin our description of Rhode Island events on the eleven square miles of little Block Island, located only twelve miles off the mainland coast and Misquamicut. The only way to get here is a twenty-minute commuter flight from Westerly, or over the water. Sailing is one of the most important Rhode Island activities here, and every year in June the island hosts a weeklong sailing regatta called Race Week. It is one of the most prestigious sailing regattas in the United States, attracting scores of crews and their boats from all over the East Coast and around the country. If you've decided that Race Week is when to go, make your plans as far in advance as possible to ensure you have secured your Block Island hotels. As in Newport, other Rhode Island events that occur here are weddings, since the state is a major Northeast wedding destination.

One of the most popular of the Rhode Island festivals celebrates the culinary heritage and traditions of this state with many fine dining establishments. Held over three days in September, the Newport Mansions Wine and Food Festival features wine from around the world as well as from the state's local wineries. There are seminars and cooking demonstrations, art and food auctions, and a gala celebration. Other Newport events in Rhode Island include a June Chowder (or "chowdah" as they say in New England) Cook Off and the Sunset Music Series that occur throughout the summer on the waterfront. Headliners such as Peter Frampton, the Indigo Girls, Joan Jett, and Melissa Etheridge are featured. There's also an August Arts Festival, a September Irish Festival, and an International Oktoberfest—all occurring on the beautiful waterfront, with its yachts available for cruises and fishing boats available for charters.

Rhode Island Map

There are Rhode Island events geared towards children as well. In Providence in March, bring the family to the Kid's Fun Fair and Traveling Zoo, featuring elephant, camel, and pony rides as well as amusement park rides, games, and face painting. With a coupon, children under age twelve are free. Rhode Island activities from the days of yore are held throughout the year at the living history museums of the Blackstone Valley, in particular the Footsteps in History that occurs in Pawtucket and throughout the region over the Columbus Day weekend.

Look also for Rhode Island events held on the beaches of South County. A Festival of Lights and a Bed and Breakfast Tours occur in December. An October Harvest Festival celebrates the produce from the region's historic farms, and for almost a month in February and March, there is a "Through the Window" Arts Festival in Westerly. Even the historic lighthouses along the coast get into the act, sponsoring clambakes and special tours during the summer.