When it comes to food and drink, Little Roady has a great selection of options. And there are festivals to showcase them.
do you like seafood? We have an ocean of possibilities. Is it farm fresh? Rhode Island has hundreds of growers. Do you like flashy things? Enter the Newport mansion. Want something casual? Try a food festival combined with a fair atmosphere.
If you’re looking for something a little wilder, there’s also the option of dining with the zoo animals.
Want to know what food festivals are happening in Rhode Island and when? Check out our list of 7 food festivals to watch in 2023.
when: June 10th
where: WaterFire Arts Center, Providence
tickets: $60 to $100
Things to know: We all know New England makes great IPAs, but IPAs aren’t what this beer festival is about. Instead, it features every other beer out there. As you know, Pilsner, Gose, Mild, Kölsch, Grewitz, Porter, Stout and Sour (the list goes on) rarely get the spotlight. There are over 30 breweries in the lineup that don’t serve IPAs. Admission includes a tasting glass and unlimited 2 oz pours. This his 21+ event by the Beervana Fest team offers a different kind of experience. Find your ticket on Eventbrite.
RI Restaurant with Waterfront Views:There is no reason not to eat outdoors
when: June 24th
where: Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence
tickets: $150
Things to know: The only food festival that promises animal interaction, Zoobilee attracts restaurants from across the state, from breweries to tea houses to barbecue dens to Italian bakeries. There is live music and dancing, and access to the Dinosaurs Among Us exhibit. This event is a fundraiser for the zoo.
when: August 4th, 5th, 6th
where: Ninigret Park, in Charlestown
tickets: $12
Things to know: The festival, now in its 38th year, knows something about providing a good time. The entertainment schedule is extensive, with amusement parks, car shows and fireworks on Saturday nights. Of course, it should not overrule the food. In addition to seafood, this is the perfect festival to eat traditional fair foods such as fried dough, potatoes and corn dogs.
when: August 15
where: Castle Hill Inn, in Newport
tickets: $200-$250
Things to know: With a menu worthy of its location, the Local Food Fest is an event where Rhode Island producers and restaurants combine farms with the region’s top chefs to celebrate. The restaurant creates delicious dishes and pairs them with beverages such as wine, beer and cocktails. Additionally, Castle Hill Inn’s famous patio and lawn offers views of Newport Bridge and Narragansett Bay. This event is a fundraiser for FarmFresh Rhode Island.
To-do list for summer:How to Make the Most of Summer in Rhode Island
when: September 16th and 17th
where: India Point Park, Providence
tickets: Pricing not announced yet
Things to know: Lobster rolls, scallops, fish tacos, oysters, shrimp, quahogs, lobster quesadillas, grilled cheese, mac n cheese and the list goes on. In short, this is a festival for those who want to experience the best that Rhode Island chefs and harvesters have to offer. There are also some non-seafood items on the menu. Located within India Point Park, it’s a beautiful place perfect for pairing with local cuisine.
when: September 22-24
where: rosecliffe, newport
tickets: Pricing to be announced in July
Things to know: The festival is broken up into smaller events to customize your experience. Tickets are sold for individual events such as wine dinners at local restaurants, Friday wine toner dinners, and Sunday morning brunch. Seminars, wine and food tasting options, grand tastings and more. Overall, this is a guest experience meant to taste and learn about what you are tasting.
when: October 14th and 15th
where: Bowens Wharf, Newport
tickets: Free admission
Things to know: Voted one of the best fall festivals by Coastal Living Magazine, this waterfront event makes the most of fall weather and the harvest season. As for food, they offer fish tacos, lobster rolls, stuffy, chowder, fried calamari, clams, oysters, and options for those who don’t like seafood. There will also be lots of sweets.