Rhode Island is a foodie state. Here are 7 food festivals to have on your radar in 2023
When it comes to food and drink, Little Rhody has no shortage of great options. And we've got the festivals to showcase them.
You love seafood? We have an ocean of possibilities. Like farm fresh? Rhode Island has hundreds of growers in the state. Prefer something fancy? Enter the Newport mansions. Want something casual? Try a food festival merged with a fair vibe.
Heck, there is an even option for a meal with zoo animals if you're looking for something a little wild.
If you want to know what food festivals are happening in Rhode Island and when, take a look through this list for seven to have on your radar in 2023.
NOIPA Festival
When: June 10
Where: The WaterFire Arts Center, Providence
Tickets: $60-$100
What to know: Everyone knows New England makes a great IPA, but this beer festival is about No IPAs. Instead it features all of the other beers out there. You know, the Pilsners, Goses, Milds, Kölsch, Gruits, Porters, Stouts, and Sours (the list goes on) that so rarely get the spotlight. There are more than 30 breweries in the lineup serving no IPAs. Admission includes a tasting glass and unlimited 2 ounce pours. This 21+ event, from the Beervana Fest team, will give you a different kind of experience. Find the tickets on Eventbrite.
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Zoobilee! Feast with the Beasts
When: June 24
Where: Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence
What to know: The only food festival that promises a meet and greet with animals, Zoobilee brings together restaurants from all over the state, from breweries to tea shops and barbecue places to Italian bakeries. There’s live music, dancing and access to the Dinosaurs Among Us exhibit. The event is a fundraiser for the zoo.
Charlestown Seafood Festival
When: Aug. 4, 5 and 6
Where: Ninigret Park, Charlestown
Tickets: $12
What to know: Now in its 38th year, this festival knows a thing or two about delivering a good time. There’s a full entertainment schedule, amusement rides, a car show and, on Saturday night, fireworks. Of course, that shouldn’t eclipse the food. In addition to the seafood, this is a great festival to get classic fair food at – think fried dough, potatoes and corndogs.
Farm Fresh Rhode Island Local Food Fest
When: Aug. 15
Where: Castle Hill Inn, Newport
Tickets: $200-$250
What to know: With a menu befitting of the location, Local Food Fest is a celebration of Rhode Island growers and restaurants, pairing farms with the area's top chefs. The restaurants create delicious dishes and they are even paired with wines, beer, cocktails and other drinks. Then there’s the view of the Newport Bridge and Narragansett Bay off of Castle Hill Inn’s famous patio and lawn. The event is a fundraiser for Farm Fresh Rhode Island.
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Rhode Island Seafood Festival
When: Sept. 16 and 17
Where: India Point Park, Providence
Tickets: Prices yet to be announced
What to know: Lobster rolls, scallops, fish tacos, oysters, shrimp, quahogs, lobster quesadillas, grilled cheese, mac and cheese and the list goes on. The bottom line is this is a festival for people who want to experience the best of what Rhode Island chefs and harvesters have to offer. There are some non-seafood options available, too. Set at India Point Park, it’s a beautiful location to pair with the local food.
Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival
When: Sept. 22-24
Where: Rosecliff, Newport
Tickets: Prices will be announced in July
What to know: This festival is broken into smaller events to you can customize your experience. Tickets are sold for individual events, including wine dinners at local restaurants, the Vintner Dinner on Friday, and a brunch on Sunday morning. There are seminars, wine and food tasting options and the grand tastings. Overall, this is a guest experience where you are meant to savor and learn about what you’re tasting.
Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival
When: Oct. 14 and 15
Where: Bowen’s Wharf, Newport
Tickets: Free admission
What to know: Named one of the best fall festivals by Coastal Living Magazine, this waterfront event makes the most of the autumn weather and harvest season. As for the food, it promises fish tacos lobster rolls, stuffies, chowder, fried calamari, clams, and oysters, as well as options for those who don’t love seafood. You'll also find plenty of sweets.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Seafood, wine and more: 7 RI food festivals in 2023. What to expect
