Daffodil Days Events Planned at Ballard Park

Friends of Ballard Park is hosting a “Jazzy Bouquet Bar” on Saturday, April 18th from 2 to 4 pm in the quarry meadow of Ballard Park as part of Newport’s Daffodil Days.

Last October, 19,000 daffodil bulbs were planted in the park’s quarry meadow. The event is the perfect occasion for the public to come and view the blooms. Friends of Ballard Park will man a “Bouquet Bar” where the public can purchase bouquets of Spring flowers. Any profits will help support free events at Ballard Park. Local photographer Jennifer Carter will be in attendance to take professional photographs of event goers which will be available for sale on her web site. Event goers are also welcome to bring their own camera to take photos.

Saxophonist Ben Shaw and guitarist Mark Medeiros will perform jazz music while meandering through the meadow. Ben and Mark have been playing and composing music together for several years as a duo and as a part of larger ensembles. Both are students of jazz and play a wide repertoire of music but for this occasion they’ve decided to go for lighter fare. This saxophone/guitar duet will be playing familiar tunes from the American songbook in a bright, festive manner fitting of the beautiful surroundings. Mr. Shaw is also the lead band member of Milkbread, winner of the 5th & Final Molly Finn Battle of the Bands. Mr. Shaw and his jazz quartet have played Friends of Ballard Park’s Annual Fundraiser for the past several years.

On Sunday, April 26th the public is invited to create a “Daffy Doodle” during the hours of 11 am and 2 pm. Materials will be provided to create your own drawing. At 2 pm members of the Rhode Island Ballet Theater will perform the “Dance of the Daffodils” in the quarry meadow. The dance will last approximately twenty minutes. All of the activities are free.

Event goers are advised to wear appropriate shoes or boots as the park may be muddy and uneven in places. Ballard Park is located at the intersection of Hazard & Wickham Roads in Newport, RI. The event may be accessed through the Hazard Road entrance. Use 1 Ocean Heights Road for GPS. The entrance is across the street.

In the event of rain, the event will be held on Saturday, April 25th from 2 to 4 pm and Sunday, April 26th from 11 to 2:30 pm.

For more information on the event visit www.ballardpark.org or call 619.3377.