Outdoors in RI: AI Hunting, Pawtucket Arts Festival, Vineyard, Tick Study, Salsa Night, Bugs, Bridge Run…

Pawtucket Arts Festival – this weekend!

Art, music and creativity will take over Pawtucket as the 2026 Pawtucket Arts Festival begins Friday, August 28, followed by a weekend of family activities and shopping from more than 100 local artists, artisans and crafters.

While all kinds of entertainment will be part of the Festival, ART! has a leading role.

Pawtucket Arts Collaborative Party

 

The festival gets underway Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. with the Pawtucket Arts Collaborative’s annual Art Fest Party at The Guild Brewery, 461 Main Street.

Artists, art lovers and community members are invited to an evening of art, music, prizes, raffles and plenty of creative energy.

Guests can come as they are—or add to the fun by arriving in their best steampunk attire. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome.

 

Shop 100+ Local Artists and Crafters at the Slater Park Fall Festival

The centerpiece of opening weekend is the free Slater Park Fall Festival, held Saturday and Sunday, August 29 and 30, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Slater Memorial Park.

Stroll through the park and discover handmade creations from more than 100 local artists, artisans and crafters. The large outdoor marketplace offers an impressive selection of original artwork, jewelry, home décor, clothing, gifts and other one-of-a-kind finds.

Visitors can shop local, talk with the makers and support the talented people who contribute to the region’s creative community.

The weekend will also feature continuous live music and cultural performances, food trucks, children’s activities, community events and rides on the park’s historic Looff Carousel. The festival traditionally attracts as many as 12,000 visitors.

City Art Gallery Opens September 3

The celebration continues with the opening of the City Art Gallery exhibition on Thursday, September 3.

Presented by the Pawtucket Commission on Arts & Culture, the gallery showcases artists who contribute to the city’s rich and diverse cultural landscape.

The City Gallery is located inside historic Pawtucket City Hall, 137 Roosevelt Avenue. Opening-day hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; visitors should check with City Hall for gallery hours on subsequent days.

The exhibit offers another opportunity to discover local talent and experience the creative spirit that has helped make Pawtucket one of Rhode Island’s distinctive arts destinations.

For the complete schedule of performances, festivals and community activities, visit the 2026 Pawtucket Arts Festival events page.

___

Recruitment starts on pioneering MVH tick study

A first-of-its-kind study for both the Island hospital and the country just enrolled its first participant last Friday in an effort to better understand alpha-gal syndrome, the tick-borne condition that causes an allergy to mammalian products like meat and dairy. Martha’s Vineyard Hospital (MVH), a member of Mass General Brigham, plans to recruit and follow 300 people in this research study. There is a second study that is also in the works that would use existing blood work samples to understand what percentage of the Island population has alpha-gal antibodies compared to Nantucket and Boston (Martha’s Vineyard Times)

___

Salsa Night – Central Falls

August 28, 6-11 pm – the City of Central Falls, RI lights up the Roosevelt Avenue Bridge on Friday, August 28, 2026 with its fiery Salsa Night.

There will be live music and a DJ, free salsa lessons, cultural dance performances and local food trucks!

Rain date is Saturday, August 29, 2026.

Roosevelt Avenue Bridge, Central Falls

More – HERE! 

.

Celebrate National Red Wine Day with Sakonnet Vineyard on August 28

New England’s oldest vineyard highlights a diverse collection of reds, including its new estate-grown Blaufränkisch

Little Compton, RI – August 26, 2026 – National Red Wine Day is Friday, August 28^th and Sakonnet Vineyard, located at 162 West Main Road in Little Compton, is inviting wine lovers to celebrate with its diverse collection of red wines, from a newly released estate-grown Blaufränkisch to sparkling red, Pinot Noir and a bold red blend.

“Late summer is such a fun time to rediscover red wine,” said Marissa Stashenko, Director of Operations at Sakonnet Vineyard. “There’s still plenty of warm weather ahead, and reds don’t have to mean heavy or wintry. We’re especially excited about our new estate-grown Blaufränkisch and Chanbrusco, our sparkling red—two wines that really showcase how vibrant, fresh and unexpected red wine from our coastal climate can be.”

The 2025 Blaufränkisch is Sakonnet’s newest red wine and an exciting addition to the vineyard’s growing collection of estate-grown wines. The variety has shown exceptional promise in Rhode Island’s cool coastal climate, producing a vibrant, medium-bodied wine with aromas of dark cherry and wild herbs, balanced by fresh acidity and structured tannins.

Chanbrusco, first released in 2025, offers a playful take on sparkling red wine. Made from estate-grown Chancellor grapes using the traditional method and left undisgorged, the wine features deep, luscious fruit, fine bubbles and notes of spice leading to a dry, smooth finish. Naturally hazy, Chanbrusco is best enjoyed chilled and poured gently.

Sakonnet’s Coastal Pinot Noir bring together Pinot Noir from Rhode Island and California, showcasing the distinctive qualities of both growing regions . Rhode Island fruit contributes bring bright red fruit, spice and finesse, while the California fruit adds richness and ripe cherry flavors.

The 2022 Pinot Noir from Germany features ripe black cherry and raspberry flavors complemented by aromas of cocoa and leather. These Massal Selection vines are sustainably grown by Sakonnet’s partners, Nico and Laura Espenschied, on their family estate in Flonheim, Germany. The grapes were hand-picked and fermented by native yeasts in open tonneau before aging for 18 months in large oak tonneau.

Belcourt Red is a rich, supple blend crafted from 40+ year-old vines at Sakonnet and by longtime partners in Sonoma County, CA. The wine offers deep flavors of blackberry and dried cherry with a subtle hint of tobacco, making it equally suited to enjoying on its own or alongside heartier dishes and classic American cuisine.

Guests can explore Sakonnet’s wines through tastings at the vineyard throughout the season, accompanied by seasonal café offerings and live music on select days. The menu features favorites including the vineyard’s lobster roll, cheese and charcuterie boards, flatbreads, and  seasonal small plates such as bruschetta, marinated olives, and whipped ricotta. A kids menu includes lemonade, hot dogs, and cheese or pepperoni pizza.  To reserve a table in the café, visit www.sakonnetwine.com/reservations.

Guests can also learn more about Sakonnet’s winemaking approach,  history and coastal terroir through  guided vineyard tour, available Wednesday through Sunday. To plan a visit or reserve a tour, visit www.sakonnetwine.com/visit.

The vineyard’s Saturday morning UnWINED yoga series also continues through September 26^th. Each $25 session includes a complimentary post-workout glass of wine for guests 21+, offering another way to enjoy late summer and early fall at the vineyard.

September Schedule of Live Music and Yoga Classes

Sakonnet Vineyard is wrapping up the summer season with free live music, yoga classes, guided vineyard tours, wine tastings, and seasonal café offerings. 

Guests can explore Sakonnet’s wines through tastings at the vineyard, accompanied by seasonal offerings from the café and live music on select days. Sakonnet Vineyard also offers 60-minute Saturday morning UnWINED yoga sessions through September for $25, which include a complimentary glass of wine for guests 21 and older. Visitors can also explore the property’s rich history and winemaking process through guided tours available Wednesday through Sunday. Register for all events at www.sakonnetwine.com/visit.

September’s schedule of events includes:

• Saturday, September 5, 1PM – 4PM.: Dan Greaves (show lists, covers, original songs)

• Sunday, September 6, 1PM – 4PM: Dave Alves Band (alternative rock, pop, singer-songwriter)

• Saturday, September 12, 1PM – 4PM: Stefan Couture (Americana, folk-rock, singer-songwriter)

• Sunday, September 13, 1PM – 4PM: Mary McAvoy (R&B, pop, songwriter)

• Friday, September 18, 6PM – 8PM: Trivia and Live Music with Gary Farias

• Saturday, September 19, 1PM – 4PM: Slow Motion Parade (high-energy rock and roll)

• Sunday, September 20, 1PM – 4PM: Grace Cooper Hall (pop, rock)

• Saturday, September 26, 1PM – 4PM: Backwards Hats (folk-rock, Americana)

• Sunday, September 27, 1PM – 4PM: Patterson Smith Band (blues, covers, jazz)

• Save the Date! October 3-4: 2nd annual Harvest Fest!

About Sakonnet Vineyard

Founded in 1975, Sakonnet Vineyard is New England’s oldest vineyard and a pioneer of the Southeastern New England AVA. Set on 169 scenic acres in Little Compton, Rhode Island, with more than 20 acres under vine, Sakonnet produces award-winning wines shaped by the region’s coastal climate.

The coastal growing conditions of Southeastern New England produce wines with bright acidity, elegance, and freshness—qualities that have defined Sakonnet’s wines for five decades. Through sustainable farming, patient cellar practices, and a deep respect for the land, the Sakonnet team crafts wines that reflect both place and purpose. Guided by core values of agriculture, preservation, and community, the vineyard remains a leader in the evolving identity of East Coast wine.

Voted “Best Vineyard” in Boston Magazine’s New England Travel Awards and the Editors’ Choice for Best Vineyard in Rhode Island in Yankee magazine, Sakonnet is a favorite day-trip destination. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, light fare from the café, and stroll the vineyard’s expansive grounds. A full calendar of seasonal events, including live music, trivia, fitness classes, and more, makes Sakonnet a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Select Sakonnet wines are also available at restaurants and retailers throughout Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, and South Carolina. For more information, seasonal hours, and to make a reservation, visit www.sakonnetwine.com.

___

Summer’s Not Clocking Out Yet: Warmer Fall Forecast Could Extend Pest Activity Across the U.S.

The National Pest Management Association’s Bug Barometer® predicts elevated pest activity as warm temperatures linger into fall

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) today released its Fall & Winter 2026 Bug Barometer®. Twice a year, NPMA’s board-certified entomologists examine recent weather history along with long-term weather and drought forecasts and pest biology to provide a region-by-region look at the pest activity.

This year’s outlook points to warmer-than-average fall temperatures across much of the continental U.S., which could give pests like ants, mosquitoes and ticks more time to forage and reproduce before cooler temperatures eventually prompt others, like cockroaches and rodents, to seek shelter indoors.

“Weather is one of several important pieces in forecasting pest activity, and with summer-like temperatures forecasted to continue, pests are going to take advantage of the extra time,” said Dr. Jim Fredericks, senior vice president of public affairs for NPMA. “Americans should follow smart prevention tips, like wearing EPA-registered repellent and working with a qualified pest control professional if you spot a pest problem in your home or yard.”

Mid-Atlantic & New England (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia):

Hot summer-like temperatures lasting into fall could keep ticks and ants active later than usual. If warm and dry conditions persist into fall, pressure from cooler-season pests like rodents, Asian lady beetles and boxelder bugs may be delayed.

Expert Tips to Protect Your Home

NPMA recommends these steps to reduce the risk of pest infestations:

• Seal entry points: Check the exterior of your home for gaps or cracks and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. Replace damaged screens and add door sweeps as needed,
• Remove standing water: Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a bottle cap of water. Empty birdbaths, gutters, flowerpots and other containers regularly.
• Maintain your yard: Keep grass trimmed and shrubs pruned away from your home’s exterior. Remove leaf litter where pests can hide.
• Store food properly: Keep food in airtight containers and promptly clean up crumbs and spills.
• Fix moisture issues: Repair leaky pipes and clogged drains. Ensure proper ventilation in basements, attics and crawl spaces.
• Call in a professional: A qualified pest control professional can inspect your home, spot potential problem areas and recommend a prevention plan tailored to your property.

“The best time to address a pest problem is before it gets out of control,” added Dr. Fredericks. “A professional pest inspection can help catch potential risks and early activity, helping protect your health and property.”

For more information and to find a trusted pest control professional near you, visit www.pestworld.org.

About the National Pest Management Association 

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA), a non-profit organization with more than 4,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org or follow @PestWorld on Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok and YouTube and@PestWorldOfficial on Instagram.

___

Superior Tactical Research on AI in Hunting

Americans appear more comfortable with artificial intelligence providing information during a hunt than taking action on someone’s behalf, according to new research from Superior Tactical.

The survey of 2,051 U.S. adults tested five hypothetical uses of AI in hunting. An AI-powered heads-up display that could highlight animal tracks and recently broken foliage received the highest public approval, at 41.83%.

Support declined as AI assumed greater control:

• 35.86% approved of animal-identifying rifle scopes

• 30.28% approved of robotic dogs that find or flush animals

• 30.28% approved of automatically targeting and firing rifles

• 27.09% approved of armed hunting drones operated remotely

The findings suggest that consumers may accept AI as an informational aid while remaining wary of systems that target, fire or perform parts of an activity for them.

___

Citizens Pell Bridge Run Sunday August 30^{th –} Motorists Should Expect Delays Due to Brief Road Closures

The Citizens Pell Bridge Run will be held on Sunday, August 30, 2026. The event is a 4-mile charity run/walk with 100% of the proceeds going to support non-profits and local community organizations. The run provides a rare opportunity for the public to cross over the beautiful Claiborne Pell Bridge on foot and enjoy stunning views of Narragansett Bay.

The event will begin at 7:00 a.m., and police will begin blocking off some roads starting at 6:30 a.m. Early morning motorists in the Jamestown and Newport area should be prepared for slight delays and traffic detours due to the run. No pedestrians other than registered athletes will be allowed on any part of the Claiborne Pell Bridge during the run. The road closures are as follows:

Jamestown – East Shore Road – From 6:30 a.m. – 7:45 a.m., East Shore Rd. will be closed between the intersection of Conanicus Avenue and the Rt. 138 off ramp.

Claiborne Pell Bridge – Motoring travel on the bridge will be reduced to a single alternating lane both westbound (from Newport) and eastbound (from Jamestown) from 7:00 a.m. – 8:15 a.m. During this time, motor vehicles over 18ft combined length will be restricted from traveling over the Claiborne Pell Bridge heading westbound.

Newport – JT Connell Highway and causeway from bridge – From 7:10 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. the westbound lane will be closed, as participants will be in that lane. From the roundabout to Farewell St. will be closed to traffic.

Farewell Street – From 7:15 a.m.- 8:45 a.m., Farewell St. will be closed through America’s Cup Avenue.

Expect delays using America’s Cup and Farewell St. until 9:00 a.m.

Van Zandt Avenue – Van Zandt Ave. at the corner of Farewell will also be closed to traffic.

Proceeds from the run are donated to nonprofits, including local community and youth sports organizations. For more information, visit www.pellbridgerun.com

___

WaterFire Full Lighting Saturday, August 29

WaterFire Providence announces a full lighting on Saturday, August 29, made possible through the support of FM and JPMorgan Chase. Onshore vendors and programming will open at 6:30 PM; the braziers will be lit at 7:43 PM and will remain lit until Midnight.

“At FM, we believe strong communities are built through connection, engagement, and shared experiences. We are excited to partner with WaterFire to help create an event that showcases the spirit, culture, and energy of Providence and Rhode Island,’ says Dave Johnson, SVP, Chief Client Experience Officer of FM.

Join artist Tracie Lee in the tunnel at Waterplace Basin at 6:30 PM on Saturday, August 29, to witness the burning of Slack Water, a 21-foot painting featured in America, Unfinished?! at the WaterFire Arts Center. On Thursday, August 27, Lee will cut the painting into fragments before bringing them to the river to be burned. The fragments will become a memorial to migration and loss. Drawing on the Qing Ming tradition of burning paper offerings for ancestors, visitors are invited to place a piece in the vessel that will carry them to the river and participate in a powerful ritual of remembrance and release.

The WaterFire Marketplace will return to Canal Street: stop by to support WaterFire with a donation or a purchase of locally designed jewelry, glassware, gifts, and apparel. Guests can also experience live glass blowing by Gather Glass. WaterFire will also have additional information and merchandise stations in front of the RISD Auditorium and on both sides of the basin in Waterplace Park.

The reception tent for WaterFire Circle Members will be located in Market Square. Members have exclusive access to the tent all season with their annual membership. This year’s Official WaterFire Circle Sponsors are The Catering Gourmet, Sakonnet Vineyard, C&C Distributors – MM Division, and Pranzi Tents and Events. Memberships are still available for the 2026 season for individuals and businesses.

WaterFire Access Boat rides are still available to reserve for August 29 and throughout the lighting season. The WaterFire Access Program is a water taxi that provides an experience of the artwork for children and adults with disabilities to ensure that they can join in the most popular arts event in the state and share the experience with their families and friends. Contact [email protected] to learn more about the program or to schedule a ride.

WaterFire Walking Tour tickets are now available for purchase online. Led by long-time WaterFire volunteers, this tour covers the remarkable origin story, artistry, and hidden gems of Providence’s most cherished event. Guests will walk through the heart of the city, following alongside the path of the braziers that will be lit just a few short hours later. Tours on August 29 are at 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM.

WaterFire Artist and Maker Vendors will be located on Washington Street and College Street from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM. Visitors can browse and shop for a variety of goods, including glass, photography, jewelry, and more. Washington Street – Recycled Silverware, Adopt Crochet Cuties, Jeremy Schilling Fine Art, Sparkles and Glow by Yvonne, Boojie Lolli, Scaredy Cat Pottery, Paul & Sandy’s Honey Shack, Forageworks, and Joseph Mushipi. Steeple Street- Psychic Niquel, K+T Jewelry & Associates, Brushed Away Art, Design WhatHaveYou, Bare & Brine, Hand Knitted by Grace, Gigi’s Essentials, Annaleah Moon Studios, Cutie Curls, Ani Ron Treasures, Celeste Diaz Falzone, and MayPaul Publishers. College Street-  Ecuador to your door, and Skoshie & Friends.

Food fairs will be open on Washington Street, College Street, and Canal Walk from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM. Enjoy local food from festival favorites: Washington Street- Full House Q, Sarcastic Sweets, Axelrod’s Fry Shack, Rhody Pop, Kettle Korn Express, JA Patty, and Good Vibes Beverages. Steeple Street- Trinity Brewhouse. College Street- Chill’s Cheesecakes, Shuckologist, Del’s, Lucky 8, Taste of India, and GrainReaper.

Funkademic, a Rhode Island-based band playing funk, soul, pop, and R&B, will be performing on the Bank of America Music Stage on Steeple Street from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM.

Jacob Frezza, a singer-songwriter from North Providence, RI, will be performing on the College Street music stage beginning at 6:30 PM.

The Starry, Starry Night installation returns to Memorial Park near the Crawford Street Bridge, inviting guests to add their light to the evening by wishing on a star or dedicating a luminaria candle lantern. New this year, join the Burn Your Negativity ceremony by writing down stress, bad vibes, or negative thoughts on special burn paper and adding them to an orb for an 11:00 PM ceremonial burn on the river, transforming negativity into sparks of light and creativity.

Andrew Anselmo, Origami Master, will be hanging out all night at Market Square, and visitors can find A Silent Soapbox living statue at the bottom of the Washington Street Bridge and Canal Walk starting at sunset. Ten31 Productions will be illuminating the World War Monument in Memorial Park.

Catch three fire-spinning performances beginning at 7:22 PM, 9:30 PM, and continuing at 11:00 PM by Cirque de Light.

___

35th Annual Central Falls Car Show Returns to Dexter Street on September 6

Start your engines! One of Central Falls’ favorite traditions is returning to Dexter Street as the City celebrates the 35th Annual Central Falls Car Show on Sunday, September 6, 2026.

For 35 years, the Central Falls Car Show has brought car enthusiasts, families, and visitors from across Rhode Island and beyond together for an afternoon in the heart of the city. This year, Dexter Street will once again be lined with an impressive collection of classic cars, custom builds, sports cars, and other standout rides for spectators to enjoy.

The car show will run from 12:00–4:00PM and is free for spectators. The afternoon will also feature live entertainment, food, and plenty of opportunities to explore Central Falls.

“There is something really special about seeing Dexter Street completely transformed for the Car Show and filled with people enjoying our amazing city,” said Mayor Maria Rivera. “For decades, this event has brought generations of families, car enthusiasts, and visitors together right here in Central Falls. Whether you come for the cars, the food, the music or simply a great afternoon with family and friends, we can’t wait to welcome everyone to CF!”

Car owners interested in participating can register their vehicles on the morning of the event from 9:00AM–12:00PM. The vehicle registration fee is $15.

35th Annual Central Falls Car Show

When: Sunday, September 6, 2026
Car Registration: 9:00AM–12:00PM
Car Show: 12:00–4:00PM
Where: Dexter Street, Central Falls, RI
Spectator Admission: Free
Vehicle Registration: $15 on-site

The event rain date is Sunday, September 13.

The City of Central Falls thanks the many community partners and sponsors whose support helps make this longstanding tradition possible, including Aura of Rhode Island, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, La Casona Restaurant, Telemundo Nueva Inglaterra, Blackstone Valley Community Health Care, Central Falls Foundation, Navigant Credit Union, Storage America, Jenks Park Pediatrics, Ai3 Architects, Papitto Opportunity Connection, Boys & Girls Clubs of Northern Rhode Island, Murdock Webbing Company, Coastal1 Credit Union, Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, Luke Charitable Foundation, and BankNewport.

Come for the cars and stay for the community, food, and entertainment as Central Falls celebrates 35 years of this signature city tradition on Dexter Street.

___

Timely outdoors issues

• Summer Bird Walk at Roger Williams Park: Saturday, September 5, 9:30–10:30 a.m.; $3, free for museum members. All experience levels are welcome. Event details
• Bear Necessities: Thursday, September 10, 6–7 p.m. at Clark Memorial Library in Richmond. DEM says black bear sightings continue to increase and will explain how to avoid conflicts. Free, but registration is required. DEM fall programs
• Raptor Weekend: September 12–13, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., at the Audubon Nature Center in Bristol. Live owls, hawks and falcons, flight demonstrations and wildlife rehabilitators. Raptor Weekend
• Audubon wildlife-photo competition: Rhode Island photographers may submit up to two bird or wildlife photographs for the 2027 calendar. Deadline September 15. Photo requirements
• International Coastal Cleanup: Save The Bay cleanups will run from September through November at locations across Rhode Island. People may join an organized cleanup or conduct their own and record the debris. Coastal Cleanup
• Saltwater fly-fishing class: September 26 at Narrow River in Narragansett. DEM will cover striped-bass equipment, casting, reading the water and fishing strategies. Lunch and equipment are included; participants bring chest waders. Cost is $30. DEM program listing

• West Nile risk is now high statewide. Mosquito samples from East Providence, Pawtucket and Providence tested positive. This is especially relevant with the Friday night walks and other dusk activities. DEM advisory
• Several freshwater recreation warnings remain. DEM says people should avoid swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking at Georgiaville Pond because of blue-green algae. Separately, Briar Point Beach in Coventry and Slack Town Beach on the Smithfield–Johnston line were listed as closed under cyanobacteria advisories as of August 23. These should be checked once more immediately before publication because conditions change. DEM Georgiaville advisory and current closure map
• Why are so many Rhode Island ponds struggling? DEM is developing management plans for five water bodies: Central Pond/Turner Reservoir, Georgiaville Pond, Indian Lake, Tiogue Lake and Upper Dam Pond/Breezy Lake. Problems include invasive water chestnut, blue-green algae, polluted stormwater and nuisance geese. That has the makings of a separate substantive story. Lake-management information
• Turtle hatchling season: Audubon notes that turtle eggs hatch during August and September, sending very small turtles across roads toward ponds and wetlands. A quick “slow down and look closely” item would fit nicely.