Kinney Azalea Gardens

This immersive series invites participants to capture the garden’s vibrant seasonal transformations through sketching and watercolor painting. Meeting every other week from spring through summer, we’ll explore a progression of blooms—from early azaleas and rhododendrons to later native wildflowers—documenting each stage of the season.

Participants will learn approachable techniques for observing and painting flowers directly from life in a relaxed, supportive environment. Emphasis will be placed on slowing down, seeing with intention, and translating the beauty of the garden onto paper.
A small materials fee includes a watercolor sketchbook, paints, and pre-printed watercolor cards featuring line drawings to guide your work or serve as inspiration.

About the Artist
Jessica Shaffer is a Rhode Island–based landscape painter specializing in coastal scenes in watercolor and oil. Living and working in South Kingstown, she has spent more than thirty years observing the shifting tides, marshes, rocky shores, and luminous light that define coastal New England. &nbsp;

Jessica’s work reflects a deep connection to place. Whether painting en plein air beside the ocean or refining compositions in the studio, she aims to translate the feeling of being outdoors—the salt air, the quiet rhythms of the bay, the changing color of the sky—into artwork that invites calm and a sense of presence. 

Her paintings resonate with residents and visitors who want to bring the experience of coastal Rhode Island into their homes and workplaces. She exhibits her work in local artists’ cooperatives and galleries, offering original paintings ranging from intimate plein air studies to larger statement pieces. Her work appeals to collectors who appreciate coastal living and a refined sense of place.

Local Event: The Garden Unfolding: A Plein Air Flower Study Series

Washington County

Narragansett-South Kingstown

Rhode Island

The Garden Unfolding: A Plein Air Flower Study...

This immersive series invites participants to capture the garden’s vibrant seasonal transformations through sketching and...

The Garden Unfolding: A Plein Air Flower Study Series

Historic Hale House

Hale House Open for the Season
Back by popular demand! This season, Hale House opens its doors on June 17 with an exhibit that debuted in 2025. “Marketing Matunuck” traces the rise of summer homes, hotels, and vacation culture in Matunuck through vintage postcards, maps, and memorabilia.

Open Hours: Wednesdays, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. from June 24 – September 2 or by appointment

Postcard courtesy of South County History Center

Local Event: Hale House Open for the Season

Hale House Open for the Season

Hale House Open for the Season
Back by popular demand! This season, Hale House opens its doors on June 17 with an exhibit that...

South Kingstown Land Trust

THIS&nbsp;EVENT&nbsp;IS&nbsp;AT&nbsp;CAPACITY! Please note: due to extreme heat, this lecture (originally scheduled for July 15) will be rescheduled to the following week, July 22. It will be held at the South Kingstown Land Trust Barn at 17 Matunuck Beach Rd. This lecture by Erica Luke of the South County History Center&nbsp;will explore Matunuck’s history as a center of Black life through&nbsp;the portraits of two well-remembered residents: Violet Sands&nbsp;Hazard and Oliver Hazard Perry Gardiner. What can we learn&nbsp;from the historical record about their experiences and&nbsp;relationships with the Hales and other Matunuck families? How&nbsp;has the area’s multi-racial community inspired artists, writers,&nbsp;and historians?

Local Event: Faces of History: The Lives and Portraits of Violet Hazard and Oliver Gardiner

Faces of History: The Lives and Portraits of...

THIS EVENT IS AT CAPACITY!  Please note: due to extreme heat, this lecture (originally scheduled for July 15) will be...

Faces of History: The Lives and Portraits of Violet Hazard and Oliver Gardiner

Join us for the next Kids at Kinney&nbsp;workshop as we explore the fascinating world of pressed flowers and plants! Participants will learn the basics of flower pressing, discover the main parts of a plant, and use real pressed flowers and foliage to create a beautiful piece of botanical artwork to take home.

Children are welcome to bring their own flower press and collected plant materials, or purchase a flower press from Kinney for an additional $21&nbsp;to continue creating at home. This hands-on workshop is a fun way to combine art, nature, and science while inspiring creativity and a deeper appreciation for the plants around us.

Perfect for curious young artists and budding botanists alike!

NOTE: It is highly encouraged but not mandatory to have a press for this workshop. Participants will still learn the basic techniques.

Local Event: Kids @ Kinney: Flower Pressing & Botany

Kids @ Kinney: Flower Pressing & Botany

Join us for the next Kids at Kinney workshop as we explore the fascinating world of pressed flowers and plants! Participants...

Fayerweather Craft Guild

Creating Yarn with Spindles Demonstration –1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Patty Harrington will discuss and demonstrate preparing wool and then spinning wool with a variety of spindles. Spindles and fiber will be available for a trial spin.

Local Event: Creating Yarn with Spindles Demonstration

Creating Yarn with Spindles Demonstration

Creating Yarn with Spindles Demonstration –1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Patty Harrington will discuss and demonstrate preparing wool and...

Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge

Join us for a hands-on experience which introduces children and their families to a variety of aquatic creatures living in the salt ponds. Program is free. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Capacity is limited. Please pre-register at <a href="https://saltpondscoalition.org/calendar?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZXN1VjFrT2t3dU9PT3J0MnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7YfJdVz6gszTO3zXtgqY8flfnZFH-OEoT-S9j3lWYa_uyNT_Kou4mNJW5MIA_aem_FoFicH3y4o37XgdOtVqhQg" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">saltpondscoalition.org/calendar</a>

Local Event: Salt Pond Safaris

Salt Pond Safaris

Join us for a hands-on experience which introduces children and their families to a variety of aquatic creatures living in the...

Not every plant belongs where it grows. Join naturalist Hunter Silvestri&nbsp;for a guided walk through Kinney Azalea Gardens as you learn to identify common invasive plant species found in Rhode Island. Along the way, you'll discover how these plants impact native ecosystems, wildlife, and biodiversity, while gaining practical knowledge about safe, effective, and environmentally responsible methods for managing them.

Whether you're a homeowner, gardener, or simply curious about the natural world, this hands-on workshop will give you the confidence to recognize invasive species and become a better steward of the landscapes around you.

Limited to just 15 participants to provide an engaging, interactive learning experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and discussion.

Local Event: Invasive Species by The Kinney Academy

Invasive Species by The Kinney Academy

Not every plant belongs where it grows. Join naturalist Hunter Silvestri for a guided walk through Kinney Azalea Gardens as you...

Saturday, July 25 (rain date July 26)
Annual Blueberry Festivaland Outdoor Craft Festival – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Enjoy delicious baked goods made with fresh blueberries and a choice of beverage for $5 while you stroll the beautiful grounds of Fayerweather House and shop from a variety of local craft vendors.
Blueberry items available 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Local Event: Annual Blueberry Festival and Outdoor Craft Festival

Annual Blueberry Festival and Outdoor Craft...

Saturday, July 25 (rain date July 26)
Annual Blueberry Festivaland Outdoor Craft Festival – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Enjoy delicious...

Annual Blueberry Festival and Outdoor Craft Festival

These little guys are headed straight for your heart — and your canvas! Join us at Rebekah Cook Art for a Canvas Painting Workshop on Saturday, July 25th from 12–3pm, where you’ll paint these adorable baby sea turtles making their way to the ocean!
No experience needed — your instructor will guide you every step of 
the way as you capture the sandy shore, the rolling surf, and every 
precious little flipper in detail.
Cost is $55 and includes all materials, professional guidance, and light refreshments including coffee and tea — plus BYOB is welcome, so bring your favorite beverage and make an afternoon of it!

Local Event: Canvas Painting Workshop at Rebekah Cook Art

Canvas Painting Workshop at Rebekah Cook Art

These little guys are headed straight for your heart — and your canvas! Join us at Rebekah Cook Art for a Canvas Painting...

Harbor Lights Dining Events Golf Marina

Spend a spectacular evening at the Harbor Lights, Drift Bar with our Celebrity Board Member/Bartenders Craig Pickell, Joey Welch, Sarah Martin, Vincent Carlone, &amp; Michael Deguilio. Enjoy the sun and water views from this spectacular Land Mark. Come enjoy food &amp; drinks with the patrons and supporters of the Courthouse, with a spectacular sunset view and fabulous staff at the Harbor Lights, Drift Bar. There will be comedy, fabulous raffles, raffle baskets &amp; much more, so make sure to be there!
The Courthouse Center for the Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to differently-abled children and adults. All tips, donations, &amp; raffles collected go directly to supporting their mission of providing arts, theater, and music to differently abled children and adults - All while maintaining the Historical Courthouse Building in West Kingston, RI and providing the VOTED BEST MUSIC VENUE for our amazing LIVE Concerts 3 years running!
Harbor Lights, 150 Gray St. Warwick, RI, 02889. Tickets not required to attend.

Local Event: Harbor Lights Celebrity Bartending Fundraiser & Comedy 7/28/26 TUE 5PM

Harbor Lights Celebrity Bartending Fundraiser &...

Spend a spectacular evening at the Harbor Lights, Drift Bar with our Celebrity Board Member/Bartenders Craig Pickell, Joey...

Harbor Lights Celebrity Bartending Fundraiser & Comedy 7/28/26 TUE 5PM

<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSda8OavnRagH4NYd2MhfojqkHsJFfkFL4UbuhLE_u5VULb4-g/viewform" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Registration required!</a>

Local Event: Watercolor & Mixed Media on Sketchbook Practice Demonstration

Watercolor & Mixed Media on Sketchbook Practice...

Watercolor & Mixed Media on Sketchbook Practice Demonstration

Dimensional Card Making Workshop – 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Create 1 - 2 dimensional greeting cards using stamps, embossing folders, and various specialty papers and embellishments with Mary Jane Minty.Ages 12 and up, Limit 6 participants, Workshop fee $5

Local Event: Dimensional Card Making Workshop

Dimensional Card Making Workshop

Dimensional Card Making Workshop – 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Create 1 - 2 dimensional greeting cards using stamps, embossing...

Join us for the next Kids at Kinney&nbsp;adventure as we explore the fascinating lives of caterpillars! Young naturalists will discover how caterpillars grow and transform into beautiful butterflies and moths while learning about the native plants that provide the food and habitat they need to survive.

Through interactive activities, nature exploration, and a hands-on craft, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for these remarkable insects and the important role they play in our gardens. It's the perfect opportunity for curious kids to connect with nature, learn about pollinators, and have fun exploring the outdoors at Kinney Azalea Gardens.

Perfect for young explorers who love bugs, butterflies, and discovering the wonders of nature!

Local Event: Kids @ Kinney: Caterpillar Lab

Kids @ Kinney: Caterpillar Lab

Join us for the next Kids at Kinney adventure as we explore the fascinating lives of caterpillars! Young naturalists will...

Feel the holiday spirit while soaking up the summer sun! Join us for 
an all-day Christmas in July Pottery Painting Workshop on Friday, July 
31st from 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Paint your very own festive truck, tree, 
or holiday piece to keep the Christmas cheer going all year long!
&nbsp; Reserve your spot now, as space is limited; no experience needed! <a href="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f3a8.svg" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>
 Just a $20&nbsp; workshop fee, which includes your studio fee, instructions,
 coffee, tea&nbsp; and light refreshments. Your pottery piece is paid for the day of the workshop.
So come enjoy festive music, themed pottery pieces, and light 
refreshments while you paint your own little slice of Christmas magic in
 July. &nbsp;Whether you’re stopping by for a quick visit to get out of the heat or staying the whole afternoon, there’s a spot for you!

Local Event: Christmas in July Pottery Painting at Rebekah Cook Art

Christmas in July Pottery Painting at Rebekah...

Feel the holiday spirit while soaking up the summer sun! Join us for 
an all-day Christmas in July Pottery Painting Workshop on...

Christmas in July Pottery Painting at Rebekah Cook Art

Celebrate the beauty of summer with an unforgettable evening at Kinney Azalea Gardens.

As twilight settles over the gardens, join us around our signature long table for a relaxing floral workshop surrounded by blooming gardens, soft music, and the warm glow of evening.

Throughout the evening, you'll create your own fresh flower crown to wear while designing a beautiful seasonal floral arrangement to take home. Enjoy a thoughtfully curated grazing table, refreshments, and live music as you connect with friends—or make new ones—in a peaceful garden setting.

Whether you're looking for a unique date night, a memorable evening with friends, or simply a chance to unwind and create, Twilight Garden Gathering offers the perfect blend of nature, creativity, and community.

Your experience includes:
<ul><li>A guided fresh flower crown workshop</li><li>A handcrafted floral arrangement to take home</li><li>Grazing table and light refreshments</li><li>Live acoustic music</li><li>Exclusive after-hours access to Kinney Azalea Gardens</li></ul>

Local Event: Twilight Garden Gathering

Twilight Garden Gathering

Celebrate the beauty of summer with an unforgettable evening at Kinney Azalea Gardens.

As twilight settles over the gardens,...

Learning to identify plants opens the door to a deeper appreciation of the natural world. Join Professor Nathan Lambstrom&nbsp;for a guided walk through Kinney Azalea Gardens as you discover the key characteristics botanists use to identify plants in the field.

Participants will learn how to recognize important identifying features such as leaves, stems, buds, flowers, bark, and growth habits, while gaining hands-on experience using botanical field guides and dichotomous keys to identify plants with confidence. 

Whether you're a beginner, a gardening enthusiast, or an aspiring naturalist, this workshop will provide practical skills you can use on every walk through the woods, your own backyard, or your favorite garden.

Limited to just 15 participants to provide an engaging, interactive learning experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and discussion.

Local Event: Field Botany by The Kinney Academy

Field Botany by The Kinney Academy

Learning to identify plants opens the door to a deeper appreciation of the natural world. Join Professor Nathan Lambstrom for a...

Join us for a relaxing summer evening of live music at Kinney Azalea Garden, proudly sponsored by <a target="_blank" href="https://whalers.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Whalers Brewing Company!</a>

Gates open at 5:00 p.m., giving you time to stroll the gardens, grab a refreshment, and settle in before the music begins.

The evening kicks off at 5:15 p.m.&nbsp;with local singer-songwriter <a target="_blank" href="https://caseyrivers.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Casey Rivers</a>, followed by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.eveningskyband.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Evening Sky</a>&nbsp;at 6:00 p.m.&nbsp;Blending jazz, Americana, folk, country, rock, and soul, Evening Sky delivers a warm, roots-inspired sound that's the perfect complement to a summer evening in the gardens.

Craft beer from Whalers Brewing Company, along with other refreshments, will be available for purchase throughout the event. Professional sound production is provided by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.thevirgilco-op.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Virgil Co-op Production</a>, ensuring an outstanding listening experience. Whether you're a music lover, a garden enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful evening outdoors, this family-friendly concert is the perfect way to enjoy great local music in one of Rhode Island's most beautiful garden settings.

Local Event: Summer Concert Series Featuring: Evening Sky

Summer Concert Series Featuring: Evening Sky

Join us for a relaxing summer evening of live music at Kinney Azalea Garden, proudly sponsored by Whalers Brewing...

Charlestown

Richmond

Newport County

Jamestown

Providence Metropolitan Area

North Kingstown

Exeter

Newport

Hopkinton

Kent County

East Greenwich

Middletown

Westerly

Rustic-chic private farm venue in scenic Stonington, CT 

Deans Mill Farm 

Built in the mid-1700s as a functioning livestock farm, Deans Mill Farm has gone through an evolution in recent decades. A full renovation of the historic buildings and rejuvenation of the surrounding 70+ acres has made the property into the incredible venue it is today. Deans Mill Farm now operates primarily as a private event space and five-room bed and breakfast tucked down a private road in Stonington, Connecticut. It shares its property with Dragonfly Equestrian Center and is home to dozens of horses. On the property lies meadows, hiking trails, beautiful fields and Dragonfly Disc Golf. The property can be rented for weddings, birthday parties and other special events. Additionally, the bed and breakfast can be rented by the room or reserved in its entirety for complete privacy. The Farm has the ability to host small private indoor events for up to 50 guests in the Farmhouse. Outdoor tented events are our specialty, with numerous locations on-site that are picturesque for your celebration. Outdoor tented celebrations can accommodate up to 250 guests.

New London County

Chris Rhatigan 

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Stonington-Mystic

Connecticut

Built in the mid-1700s as a functioning livestock farm, Deans Mill Farm has gone through an evolution in recent decades. A full renovation of the...

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Deans Mill Farm