Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum

Discover the joy of watercolor painting in this beginner/intermediate six-class series. Through demonstrations, learn the basics of watercolor tools, color, composition, and paint applications as you learn new techniques and work on developing your inner talent. Individualized instruction will guide each student in creating beautiful watercolor paintings.
Materials not included. See list of suggested materials below.
Mary Ellen is a Signature artist of the RI Watercolor Society and has been teaching for many years.
<hr>
Maximum of 10 students. Materials not included.These classes are for adults.
Pre-registration is required.

Local Event: Fall Watercolor Series with Artist Mary Ellen Dwyer 

Bristol County

Bristol-Warren

Rhode Island

Fall Watercolor Series with Artist Mary Ellen...

Discover the joy of watercolor painting in this beginner/intermediate six-class series. Through demonstrations, learn the...

Fall Watercolor Series with Artist Mary Ellen Dwyer 

George Hail Library

Join us at the George Hail Free Library for a gathering of artists of all kinds. This cozy night of community will feature an open-mic for musicians, poets, writers, and anyone else compelled to take the stage!Performers will have approximately 5 minutes each. To secure a performance spot, email us at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:apappashorii@georgehail.org" target="_blank">apappashorii@georgehail.org</a>. Please include your name and the type of performance you will be sharing. Day-of sign-ups will also be available.&nbsp;
Those not performing are encouraged to attend and enjoy the show from the audience! Light drinks and snacks will be provided.&nbsp;
Are you an artist of the culinary variety? Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:apappashorii@georgehail.org" target="_blank">apappashorii@georgehail.org</a>&nbsp;to sign up to cook or bake something to share with your community!

Local Event: Open Mic

Open Mic

Join us at the George Hail Free Library for a gathering of artists of all kinds. This cozy night of community will feature an...

Experience Blithewold in its finest fall glory as you stroll through the grounds at sunset. Director of Horticulture Dan Christina will show you the views that sunset illuminates, making the golden, red, and orange hues stand out in the landscape. This is a walking tour across the entire property, so please dress and plan accordingly.
<hr>
Preregistration is required.

Local Event: Fall Sunset Tour

Fall Sunset Tour

Experience Blithewold in its finest fall glory as you stroll through the grounds at sunset. Director of Horticulture Dan...

This drawing class will focus on subjects from nature: flowers, trees, and landscape. Each week, a topic will be presented to introduce a variety of methods and materials. Individual expression and creative applications will be reinforced to produce individual results. Observational drawing, botanical drawings, and elements of art will be covered. Blithewold’s gardens and arboretum inspire the classwork.
The main material will be colored pencil with various options for multi-media. Materials will be provided. Students of all abilities are encouraged to attend.

Local Event: Nature Drawing at Blithewold

Nature Drawing at Blithewold

This drawing class will focus on subjects from nature: flowers, trees, and landscape. Each week, a topic will be presented to...

Fall is a perfect time to enjoy Blithewold’s cozy, glassed-in Breakfast Porch as Lynda Gaines leads the way to a better understanding and appreciation of wines for all occasions. We’ll be drinking wine and having a good time!

October 15: Red Wines Red wines run the gamut from light-bodied and easy-drinking, to full-bodied and complex. Join us as we sample red wines from around the world and the winemaking methods that impact taste. We’ll also discuss how various grape varietals impact the wine.

Local Event: Wine Tasting and Talk on the Porch

Wine Tasting and Talk on the Porch

Fall is a perfect time to enjoy Blithewold’s cozy, glassed-in Breakfast Porch as Lynda Gaines leads the way to a better...

Celebrate autumn on Aquidneck Island with a free, family-friendly outdoor cultural celebration! The 2nd Annual Japan-America Friendship Festival returns to historic Touro Park in Newport on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Hosted by the Japan-America Society of Southern New England, Inc. (JASNE), this open-air festival honors the long-standing Newport-Shimoda Sister City connection and local heritage dating back to Commodore Matthew C. Perry’s historic 1854 expedition.
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS:
<ul>
 <li>Live Performances:
 Thunderous taiko drum sets and dynamic martial arts demonstrations throughout the day.</li>
 <li>History Tent: Explore fascinating maritime history and trade connections in partnership with the Whitfield-Manjiro Friendship Society, New Bedford Whaling Museum, Wareham Historical Society, and Five College Center for East Asian Studies.</li>
 <li>Youth Crafts Pavilion:
 Hands-on origami paper-folding, traditional brush calligraphy, kite-making, and a popular Kimono photo station.</li>
 <li>Cosplay Parade &amp; Contest:
 The 2nd Annual Cosplay Parade kicks off at 12:30 PM (assembly at 12:15 PM under the tent next to the Commodore Perry Statue). Costumed participants of all ages—and pets—are welcome!</li>
 <li>Food &amp; Artisan Market:
 Taste authentic Japanese-inspired street food from regional vendors and browse handcrafted items from local artisans.</li>
</ul>
EVENT DETAILS:
<ul>
 <li>Admission: FREE and open to the public</li>
 <li>Weather: Rain or shine</li>
 <li>Location: Touro Park, 5 Touro Park St W, Newport, RI</li>
</ul>
<ul>
 <li>Website: <a href="https://www.jasne-janafa.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.jasne-janafa.org</a></li>
 <li>Facebook Event Link: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jasne.janafa" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/jasne.janafa</a></li>
</ul>
Supported in part through Discover Newport; Japan Foundation, New York; BankNewport; and the National Association of Japan-America Societies.
###

Local Event: 2nd Annual Japan-America Friendship Festival is Back in Newport!

Newport County

Portsmouth

2nd Annual Japan-America Friendship Festival is...

Celebrate autumn on Aquidneck Island with a free, family-friendly outdoor cultural celebration! The 2nd Annual Japan-America...

2nd Annual Japan-America Friendship Festival is Back in Newport!

Bristol Train of Artillery

Get a head start on your seasonal shopping at this festive community market featuring over 30 tables of unique handmade gifts. Support local artisans and small businesses while enjoying a chance to win exciting raffle prizes.

Local Event: Fall Into The Holidays Craft Fair

Fall Into The Holidays Craft Fair

Get a head start on your seasonal shopping at this festive community market featuring over 30 tables of unique handmade gifts....

Please join the fun and show off your creative whimsy! Create a prize-winning cozy winter home for the fairies who live in your yard, and temporarily share it with Blithewold’s fairer (and tinier) residents for a friendly competition.

Local Event: Fairy House Competition

Fairy House Competition

Please join the fun and show off your creative whimsy! Create a prize-winning cozy winter home for the fairies who live in your...

Calling all fairy architects! We need your help creating incredible, cozy winter woodland retreats for our fairies at Blithewold and in your yard. It all starts with a cookie…a tree cookie! A slice of a Blithewold tree trunk serves as the foundation to start building your fairy house. We will use only natural materials foraged from our Grounds.
Your registration provides entry to the <a href="https://www.blithewold.org/event/fairy-house-competition/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Fairy House Competition</a>, which will be judged at our <a href="https://www.blithewold.org/event/wonder-wold-celebration-of-trees/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Wonder Wold</a> event on October 24.
This program is for adults only. (Ages 18 and up) Class is limited to 16 for each time slot. Select your time slot when registering.

Local Event: Fairy House Workshop

Fairy House Workshop

Calling all fairy architects! We need your help creating incredible, cozy winter woodland retreats for our fairies at...

We invite the artists and crafters of Warren, from aspiring to seasoned, from the young to the old, to join our Community Crafting Club! Drop by the Youth Services room&nbsp;any time between 11am-2pm to work on your creation(s), no registration required. You may choose to bring what you make&nbsp;home or display it in the library.&nbsp;
Be on the lookout for special meetings of the Club where we will invite experienced artists to lead FREE classes.&nbsp;Registration will be required for these sessions.

Local Event: Community Crafting Club

Community Crafting Club

We invite the artists and crafters of Warren, from aspiring to seasoned, from the young to the old, to join our Community...

Bristol Town Beach

Take your tennis game to the next level with RI Centre Court Coach Ben Nelson!This clinic is designed for intermediate players ages 16 and up. Each 90-minute session includes:30 minutes of instructional hitting
60 minutes of match play, with coaching and guidance as neededDates: Saturdays, October 17 &amp; 24 Time: 11:00 AM–12:30 PM Location: Bristol Town Beach Sports Complex Cost: $90 for both sessionsPlease bring: Your own tennis racket.*In the event of inclement weather, participants will be notified by email. Please make sure your email address is current when registering.*

Local Event: Intermediate Fall Tennis Clinic (16+)

Intermediate Fall Tennis Clinic (16+)

Take your tennis game to the next level with RI Centre Court Coach Ben Nelson!This clinic is designed for intermediate players...

Bristol Art Museum

&nbsp;Join us for a screening of a short documentary exploring the Bannister Community Art Project and the life and legacy of 19th-century Providence artist Edward Mitchell Bannister, one of America's most celebrated Black painters.&nbsp; Following the film, a lively panel discussion and audience conversation will explore Bannister's artistic achievements, his enduring influence on Rhode Island's cultural history, and the important role his wife, Christiana Carteaux Bannister, played during her lifetime as an educator, entrepreneur, and respected member of Providence's Black community.
Sponsored by Annie Castlenovo McMullen in memory of her mother, Providence Art Club artist, Mary Castlenovo.&nbsp; 

Moderator Wayne Franklin Committee Member, Bannister Community Art Project and Member of the Board, Providence Art Club
Panelists Theresa Guzmán Stokes Executive Director of the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society
Writer, historian, U.S. Navy veteran, and cultural preservation leader, Theresa Guzmán Stokes work centers on African Heritage, Latin American, and diasporic histories. She is president and founder of 1696 Heritage Group, founder of Historical Writers of America, and she leads statewide efforts to preserve and elevate African and Indigenous histories through her role at the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society.
Ulli Ryder CEO The Ryder | Talbutt Group Scholar-in-Residence, Office of the Chaplains and Religious Life, Brown University
Ulli Ryder's most recent project is the restoration of Edward Mitchell Bannister's historic gravestone in Providence's North Burial Ground. The original monument, erected in his honor by his artist colleagues, had been vandalized. It was a large stone with bronze medallions. Mahler Ryder, Ulli's father, artist and RISD professor, organized their recreation in 1976 as part of the nation's Bicentennial and in honor of the often-overlooked contributions of Black American artists. Ironically, the gravestone was again discovered stolen a few years ago and in memory of her father, Ulli Ryder has taken up his mission in this 250th celebration of our nation's founding.
 <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/in-bannisters-footsteps-art-in-history-art-in-social-justice-art-in-act-tickets-1998497614162?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">GET YOUR EVENTBRITE TICKET HERE</a>

Local Event: In Bannister’s Footsteps Art in History, Art in Social Justice, Art in Activism

In Bannister’s Footsteps Art in History, Art in...

 Join us for a screening of a short documentary exploring the Bannister Community Art Project and the life and legacy of...

In Bannister’s Footsteps Art in History, Art in Social Justice, Art in Activism

Bristol Parks & Recreation

Shell Decoupage &amp; Resin Workshop
Turn beautiful shells gathered from our local bays into one-of-a-kind keepsakes! In this fun, hands-on workshop, you'll learn how to decorate shells using decoupage techniques and finish them with a glossy resin coating for a professional look.
Choose from a variety of images and designs. You'll create 3 unique shells to take home, making them perfect for displaying, gifting, or using as decorative catch-all dishes.
No experience is necessary. This workshop is designed for beginners and experienced crafters alike. All materials and step-by-step instruction are included.
Date: Sunday, October 18 Time: 1:00-2:30PM Cost: $35 per person
Ages: Children 9 and older are welcome when accompanied by a participating adult.
Space is limited. Deadline to sign up is October 15 (or sooner if the workshop fills).
Come relax, get creative, and take home three beautiful coastal-inspired treasures!

Local Event: Shell Decoupage/Resin Workshop

Shell Decoupage/Resin Workshop

Shell Decoupage & Resin Workshop
Turn beautiful shells gathered from our local bays into one-of-a-kind keepsakes! In this fun,...

&nbsp;Join us for a screening of a short documentary exploring the Bannister Community Art Project and the life and legacy of 19th-century Providence artist Edward Mitchell Bannister, one of America's most celebrated Black painters.&nbsp; Following the film, a lively panel discussion and audience conversation will explore Bannister's artistic achievements, his enduring influence on Rhode Island's cultural history, and the important role his wife, Christiana Carteaux Bannister, played during her lifetime as an educator, entrepreneur, and respected member of Providence's Black community.
Sponsored by Annie Castlenovo McMullen in memory of her mother, Providence Art Club artist, Mary <a href="https://null" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Castlenovo</a><a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/1/#m_3956752429501451947__msocom_1" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[LM1]</a>&nbsp;
 Panel&nbsp;
Moderator Wayne Franklin Committee Member, Bannister Community Art Project and Member of the Board, Providence Art Club
Panelists Theresa Guzmán Stokes Executive Director of the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society
Writer, historian, U.S. Navy veteran, and cultural preservation leader, Theresa Guzmán Stokes work centers on African Heritage, Latin American, and diasporic histories. She is president and founder of 1696 Heritage Group, founder of Historical Writers of America, and she leads statewide efforts to preserve and elevate African and Indigenous histories through her role at the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society.
Ulli Ryder CEO The Ryder | Talbutt Group Scholar-in-Residence, Office of the Chaplains and Religious Life, Brown University
Ulli Ryder's most recent project is the restoration of Edward Mitchell Bannister's historic gravestone in Providence's North Burial Ground. The original monument, erected in his honor by his artist colleagues, had been vandalized. It was a large stone with bronze medallions. Mahler Ryder, Ulli's father, artist and RISD professor, organized their recreation in 1976 as part of the nation's Bicentennial and in honor of the often-overlooked contributions of Black American artists. Ironically, the gravestone was again discovered stolen a few years ago and in memory of her father, Ulli Ryder has taken up his mission in this 250th celebration of our nation's founding.
 <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/in-bannisters-footsteps-art-in-history-art-in-social-justice-art-in-act-tickets-1998497614162?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">GET YOUR EVENTBRITE TICKET HERE</a>
Registration required.&nbsp;

Environmental Educator Connie Ganley will guide you through our natural spaces to take in and connect with the sights, sounds, and smells on this leisurely stroll. A fun way to start your day, conversing about nature, history, and possibly going down a few “rabbit holes”! Bring your camera for some unforgettable photo opportunities.
Please remember to bring/wear:
<ul><li>Sturdy walking shoes</li><li>Appropriate dress for the weather – we go out in light rain</li><li>Bug spray/sunscreen</li><li>Hat</li><li>Water bottle/snack</li></ul>
Registration is required and limited to 15. All ages are welcome.

Local Event: Morning Garden Walks

Morning Garden Walks

Environmental Educator Connie Ganley will guide you through our natural spaces to take in and connect with the sights, sounds,...

Learn the basics of needle felting as you add color, texture, and an expressive face to make your pumpkin uniquely your own.&nbsp;
Make your project uniquely yours by choosing from a variety of wool colors and adding your own patterns and details to your pumpkin.&nbsp;.

Please note: The photo shows three different design variations for inspiration, but each participant will create one felted pumpkin hoop.
Best for ages 8+<a href="https://oslri.libcal.com/event/17346422" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sign up on our events calendar starting on October 6th.</a>

Local Event: Felted Pumpkin Hoops

Felted Pumpkin Hoops

Learn the basics of needle felting as you add color, texture, and an expressive face to make your pumpkin uniquely your...

Ever wonder how, why, and when Blithewold plants our new Daffodils? Join Director of Horticulture, and president of the Daffodil Society of Rhode Island, Dan Christina for an interesting look at the design choices, practical methods, reasoning for expansion, and hands-on demonstration of our process as we continue to expand and improve the collection!
A mix of a walk and talk as well as a planting demonstration. Dress for the weather!
Preregistration is required.

Local Event: Daffodil Planting Primer

Daffodil Planting Primer

Ever wonder how, why, and when Blithewold plants our new Daffodils? Join Director of Horticulture, and president of the...

A day of exploration and learning in our “Happy (Blithe) Woodland (wold)”. Take in the beautiful foliage and Champion Trees, or enjoy one of our scavenger hunts. Vote for your favorite Fairy House. Join a guided tour of our incredible plant collections with local experts, and send your kids to the treetops with the Kid’s Climb! Plan a picnic or enjoy a delicious treat from our food trucks, and create autumnal treasures to take home. Please dress for outdoor fun!
<h3>All activities are included with admission.</h3>

Local Event: Wonder Wold

Wonder Wold

A day of exploration and learning in our “Happy (Blithe) Woodland (wold)”. Take in the beautiful foliage and Champion Trees, or...

Quinta Gamelin Community Center

In this workshop participants will learn the basics of handmade soapmaking using beginner friendly techniques. The class will include instructions on adding essential oils, fragrances, colors, safety and soap pouring techniques.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ages 9+ welcome with an adult.All materials will be provided.&nbsp;Latex gloves and non-latex gloves will be available.&nbsp;&nbsp;The instructor recommends wearing long sleeves.Soaps will have to remain for 24 hours to cure, participants will be able to pick up the following day.

Local Event: Beginner Soap Making Workshop

Beginner Soap Making Workshop

In this workshop participants will learn the basics of handmade soapmaking using beginner friendly techniques. The class will...

Linden Place

Join us for on Saturday, October 24 at 6pm for and experience the Mansion as you never have before! Come to the quintessential whodunnit thriller at the estate of Sir Warren Peace and get thrown into a night of mystery, intrigue, and murder you will never forget. With a killer crowd of people just waiting for murder to arrive on the scene, this night will keep everyone looking over their shoulders and guessing who the next victim will be! Bribe suspects for clues and gather information to uncover the unhinged guest who is whacking all the invitees. Just be careful, because you could be next! Dress your best in evening wear and suits—this is a refined party, after all. Your ticket includes dinner, 1 drink ticket (beer, wine, or soda), and a murder mystery game where you try to figure out whodunnit. Roles for every comfort level (from high participation to just guessing who the murderer is). Costumes encouraged but not required. Dinner and appetizers provided by Leo's Ristorante and CP Catering. Drinks provided by 2 Gals Cocktails.&nbsp;

Local Event: Best Laid Plans: An Old Hollywood Murder Mystery Event

Best Laid Plans: An Old Hollywood Murder...

Join us for on Saturday, October 24 at 6pm for and experience the Mansion as you never have before! Come to the quintessential...

Best Laid Plans: An Old Hollywood Murder Mystery Event

Joseph Hosey

Providence Metropolitan Area

Barrington

Seekonk-Swansea

Massachusetts

Providence County

East Providence

Kent County

Warwick

Tiverton-Little Compton

Providence

Cranston

Middletown

West Warwick



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Shell Rapid Lube

Fast Stay in your car drive-thru oil change. We service all makes and models. No Appointment Necessary. Fleet accounts welcomed. Featuring Pennzoil and Shell motor oil, Rain X Wipers. We replace air filters, headlights and brake lights. We are pet friendly, bring your fur baby for your next service, treats always available. Locally owned &amp; operated. Hablamos Español. Like us on Facebook and Instagram.

Fast Stay in your car drive-thru oil change. We service all makes and models. No Appointment Necessary. Fleet accounts welcomed. Featuring Pennzoil...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Events and Things to Do in Bristol-Warren, RI

Saturday, October 17

2nd Annual Japan-America Friendship Festival is Back in Newport!

OCT

17

10:00 AM

5 Touro Park St W, Newport, RI

Saturday, October 24

Best Laid Plans: An Old Hollywood Murder Mystery Event

OCT

24

6:00 PM

Linden Place, 500 Hope St, Bristol, RI

Also around town...

Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Wednesday, October 14

Thursday, October 15

Saturday, October 17

Sunday, October 18

Tuesday, October 20

Thursday, October 22

Saturday, October 24

2nd Annual Japan-America Friendship Festival is Back in Newport!

Best Laid Plans: An Old Hollywood Murder Mystery Event

Shell Rapid Lube