Three words usher in the autumnal equinox: concerts, culture, and calamari. Local-favorite festivals unfold across the state with bluegrass camp-outs and punk for a cause, historical and heritage events, outdoor experiences for nature lovers, and much more. Hello, fall!
In case of weather delays or last-minute cancellations, always call the venue or check online for updates before you go.
ALL WEEKEND
The fifth annual African Film and Art Fest spans five days of contemporary films and filmmakers from Africa and the African Diaspora, promoting cross-cultural dialogue and education through art. September 18-22, tickets online, Providence
Bring a lawn chair and your instrument if you’re jamming to the Ocean State Bluegrass Festival, with a lineup of Stoneface Mountain, Wide Open Spaces, and Max Wareham and the National Bluegrass Team, plus workshops, food, and camping. September 20-21, tickets online, Warren
SATURDAY, September 21
Eat a peach for peace during Skydog Farm’s International Day of Peace programming. A guided meditation and moment of silence takes place in the gardens (or inside the greenhouse if there’s rain), along with a plant sale and a walk around the grounds. Tickets online, Scituate
The Audubon Society of RI invites wildlife enthusiasts on a Providence Birding Adventure, featuring a free bird banding demonstration at Roger Williams Park, educational session about avian research and migration patterns, and guided walk. Tickets online, Providence
Bring a donation of dog or cat food to Nick-A-Nee's and rock out at Punks For Pets. Sourpunch, Musclecah, and Jake Hunsinger & The Rock Bottom Band are just a few of the bands performing at this all-day party. 12-8pm, Providence
Get your tickets by Friday for advanced pricing to experience the Bristol Historical & Preservation Society’s House Tour, an exclusive look inside 11 private homes. Shuttle vans take guests on a journey through the town’s rich history. Tickets online, Bristol
The WaterFire Arts Center is transformed into an exhibition of global art and traditions for the family-friendly Heritage Festival. A flag parade, cultural displays, visual art, music and dance, craft demonstrations, and much more are in store. 12-5pm, Providence
Partake in one of the state’s favorite dishes at the RI Calamari Festival and Cook-Off, where Ocean State restaurants pull out all the stops to prepare the best squid feasts to compete for the calamari crown, plus a beer garden and other fare. Tickets online, Narragansett
SUNDAY, September 22
Support Revive the Roots while reveling in early fall’s natural spoils at Rootstock. Whether swaying to live music or learning from health and sustainability vendors, grabbing a bite to eat or making art, there’s something for everyone. Tickets online, Smithfield
Join Wood-Pawcatuck Wild and Scenic Rivers in acknowledging their community grant recipients during the River Stewardship Celebration at Grey Sail Brewing. Connect with the council and welcome the autumnal equinox. 12-3pm, Westerly
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