Bark & Boogie Brings a Little Swing to Spring in Newport

The only thing better than shaking off winter in Newport is doing it with a dance floor, a cocktail in hand, and a cause worth celebrating.

On April 11, the Potter League for Animals invites Rhode Islanders to step into a lively, speakeasy-inspired evening at The Bark & Boogie, a reimagined spring gala set inside the Grand Ballroom at the Newport Marriott Hotel. Running from 6-9:30pm, the event blends the feel of a stylish night out with the heart of a community fundraiser.

Presented by the Lola Ruth Giving Fund, the evening promises more than just good vibes. Guests can expect craft cocktails, crowd-pleasing bites, and live music from World Premier Band, all designed to keep the energy high and the dance floor moving. Along the way, interactive moments invite attendees to give back in ways that feel natural and engaging.

“This is not your typical gala,” says Brad Shear, CEO of the Potter League for Animals. “The Bark & Boogie is a celebration of what this community makes possible. It’s a night where people can come together, have fun, and directly support the animals who rely on us every day.”

That mission is front and center throughout the night. The Potter League serves more than 13,000 animals each year, offering everything from adoption and veterinary care to training, education, and support programs that help keep pets with the families who love them. Funds raised at The Bark & Boogie go straight toward expanding those services and meeting urgent needs.

For guests, the impact is woven into the experience. The animals themselves take a starring role in the evening’s storytelling, a gentle reminder of why the work matters and how each ticket helps create second chances.

After a long New England winter, the timing feels just right. The Bark & Boogie offers a chance to dress up, head out, and celebrate something joyful with friends, neighbors, and fellow animal lovers. It’s equal parts party and purpose, wrapped into one memorable night. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit barkandboogie.org.