Annual Happenings
March
2nd Annual Wedding Expo
March 1, 2025
We’re thrilled to invite you to Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum in Bristol, RI for our 2nd Annual Wedding Expo! Whether you’re newly engaged, or finalizing those last-minute details, this exclusive event will provide inspiration, guidance, and a chance to connect with some of the finest wedding professionals in the industry. Review the full event and register HERE.
Organizer: Blithewold
Maple Sugaring Days
March 1-2, 2025
Join Coggeshall Farm Museum for a sweet day of history and hands-on fun at our annual Maple Sugaring tradition — tap trees, carve spiles, collect sap, and watch it transform into maple sugar, with scavenger hunts, crafts, games, and a look at the region’s rich maple history. Review the full event and register HERE.
Organizer: Coggeshall Farm
Bristol Book Fest
Throughout March 2025
Join Bristol BookFest 2025 to explore Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 through seminars, lectures, and community discussions from January to April — celebrating literature, freedom, and thoughtful conversation. Review the full calendar and register HERE!
Organizer: Rogers Free Library
Herreshoff Frostbite Bash
March 29, 2025
Get ready for the 13th Annual Frostbite Bash at the Herreshoff Marine Museum on March 29, 2025 — a night of cocktails, live entertainment, dancing, local eats, photo booths, and exciting auctions, all in the iconic Hall of Boats! Review the full details and purchase tickets HERE.
Organizer: Herreshoff Marine Museum
April
Daffodil Days at Blithewold
April 1-30, 2025
Each spring, Blithewold Mansion in Bristol, RI, bursts into bloom with nearly 100,000 daffodils and 80 varieties of spring bulbs, inviting visitors to stroll 33 seaside acres, enjoy family-friendly programs, afternoon teas, concerts, and workshops amidst a breathtaking floral display.
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Organizer: Blithewold
Bristol Book Fest
April 4-5, 2025
Join Bristol BookFest 2025 to explore Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 through seminars, lectures, and community discussions from January to April — culminating in a weekend of lectures, discussions, and community engagement on April 4 and 5, 2025. Review the full calendar and register HERE!
Organizer: Rogers Free Library
Coggeshall Farm Opening Day
April 12, 2025
Coggeshall Farm opens for the season! Set on 48 acres of coastal farmland in Bristol, Rhode Island, Coggeshall Farm recreates the daily experience of tenant farmers on a salt marsh farm in the late 18th century. Check out a full calendar of events HERE.
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Organizer: Coggeshall Farm
State Street Fair
April 26, 2025
Celebrate spring at the State Street Festival in Bristol, RI, where local shops, live entertainment, and community fun come together in a vibrant event with local vendors, artists, performers, and more! For more information, visit the Bristol Merchants Association HERE.
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Organizer: Bristol Merchants Association
May
Linden Place's Annual Derby Day Party
May 3, 2025
Linden Place will hold its Annual Derby Day Party to celebrate the 151st Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 3rd! Having sold out each year, everyone who participates in this premier fundraising event for the Bristol landmark can feel like a winner by securing a ticket. With everything planned for this year’s Derby Day, it’s a sure bet everyone will have a ball while supporting Bristol’s landmark and cultural hub. Review more information and ticket details HERE.
Organizer: Linden Place
Brits Attack Bristol - Tall Ships
May 16-20, 2025
Through coordination with Tall Ships America, the event begins with the docking of a Tall Ship in Bristol Harbor and a mock attack including 30 re-enactor soldiers and citizens! The ship will be available for tours (especially for school groups), sail in and out cruises, followed by local events through the weekend.
Organizer: Bristol Historical & Preservation Society
Roger Williams University Graduation
May 16-28, 2025
Congratulations to the Class of 2025! The Bristol, Rhode Island community celebrates your graduation day and achievements in reaching your goals! Be sure to make your dinner reservations and celebratory events throughout the town early!
Organizer: Roger Williams University
Sheep and Wool Festival
May 17, 2025
Learn about and see demonstrations of sheep shearing, wool processing, dyeing, weaving, and spinning. Shop with vendors and artisans from RI and New England. Visit with the farm’s sheep and see visiting animals that provide us with the fiber for our craft. Pre-registration is HIGHLY recommended and tickets may sell out. Rain or Shine! Review the full event and purchase tickets HERE.
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Organizer: Coggeshall Farm
Roger Williams University Alumni & Reunion Weekend
May 31, 2025 - June 1, 2025
The Office of Alumni Relations is excited to host the biggest alumni celebration of the year: Alumni & Reunion Weekend May 30 to June 1, 2025. We also are thrilled to honor reunion classes ending in 0 and 5! Review the full schedule and register for a weekend full of events HERE.
Organizer: Roger Williams University
June
British Motorcar Festival
June 6-7, 2025
The BMCNE will kick off its Annual British Motorcars in Bristol car show that includes a scenic tour around Southern New England, hosting a block party in downtown Bristol, and a public Car Show in an effort to raise money for local charities through car show registrations, vendor booths, area sales, and sponsorships. The events are FREE for visitors. Bring your family and friends for an entertaining day of historic British cars, vendors and the beautiful sites of Narragansett Bay. There will be a British Car Corral, British Marketplace & Auto Jumble, and Food & Beverage Concessions are all open. Review the full event schedule HERE.
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Organizer: Bristol Merchants Association & Explore Bristol
State Street Fair
June 14, 2025
Celebrate spring at the State Street Spring Festival in Bristol, RI, where local shops, live entertainment, and community fun come together in a vibrant event with local vendors, artists, performers, and more! For more information, visit the Bristol Merchants Association HERE.
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Organizer: Bristol Merchants Association
Flag Day Celebration
June 14, 2025
In the United States, Flag Day is celebrated on June 14. It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States, which happened that day by the resolution of the Second Continental Congress in 1777. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day; in August 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress. ​Join us at the Town Common for the Flag Day Ceremony, the kick-off to our annual Fourth of July Celebration. Review the full event details and more HERE.
Visit the Bristol Fourth of July website for a complete listing of events, activities and background on America's oldest continuous Fourth of July Celebration in America!
Organizer: Town of Bristol Fourth of July Committee
Bristol Oyster Fest
June 16, 2025
The charity event hosted by DeWolf Tavern brings the community together to sample local oysters from area farms, enjoy live entertainment, savor food trucks​ and participate in family-fun activities! There will be local vendors, a live auction, and much more! ​​
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Organizer: DeWolf Tavern
4th of July Summer Concert Series
June 21, 2025 - July 3, 2025 (Daily!)
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Come enjoy a variety of FREE concerts as the Bristol community continues the oldest continuous Fourth of July Celebration! Visit the Bristol Fourth of July website for a complete listing of concerts, other events, activities and background on Bristol's Fourth of July Celebration! In 2025, the Concert series will take place at Roger Williams University!
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Organizer: Town of Bristol Fourth of July Committee
Rockwell Carnival
TBA
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Celebrate the Bristol Fourth of July with your family and friends with the Carnival located on Bristol Town Common. Review the full details and ticket pricing HERE.
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​Visit the Bristol Fourth of July website for a complete listing of events, activities and background on America's oldest continuous Fourth of July Celebration in America!
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Organizer: Town of Bristol Fourth of July Committee
Independence Rhode Race
TBA
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The "Most Patriotic Town in America" is showcased in this flat and fast half marathon. The half marathon will follow the beautiful downtown streets of America’s quintessential community when it is decked out in its finest - during the Oldest 4th of July Celebration in America. The course includes incredible historic homes, a town common and the America’s Cup Museum before heading out along the scenic coastline, through Roger Williams University, following the parade route, and finishing along the water at Independence Park.
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​Visit the Bristol Fourth of July website for a complete listing of events, activities and background on America's oldest continuous Fourth of July Celebration in America!
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Organizer: Town of Bristol Fourth of July Committee
July
4th of July Fireworks
July 3, 2025 | 9:30 pm
Once the sun goes down, the fireworks go up over Bristol Harbor. Visit downtown, eat at one of our local restaurants and businesses, walk through beautiful downtown Bristol and stop by a local business and do some shopping, then watch a spectacular fireworks display over the Bristol Harbor. Review the full details HERE.
Organizer: Town of Bristol Fourth of July Committee
Patriotic Exercises
July 4, 2025 | 8:30 am
The oldest, continuous Fourth of July Celebration in America marks its 240th Independence Day event with the historic Patriotic Exercises. A variety of dignitaries will gather outside Colt School to reflect on the significance of the day and importance of maintaining the freedoms and government processes that define our Country. Review the full event details and background HERE.
Organizer: Town of Bristol Fourth of July Committee
Military, Civic and Fireman's Parade
July 4, 2025 | 10:30 am
2.5 mile route starts at Hope and Chestnut Streets, ending at High and Court Streets. Review the full event details and route HERE.
Organizer: Town of Bristol Fourth of July Committee
Concerts on the Common
TBD
Gather with friends and neighbors for a free summer concert series on the town common, where music fills the air in the heart of our historic town center. Bring your lawn chairs and some snacks to enjoy lively performances, relax with your friends and family, and celebrate community!
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Organizer: Town of Bristol
Blitheowld Music at Sunset Concert Series
TBD
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Spread out a blanket and unpack the picnic basket, soak up the warmth of the summer sun, and enjoy the sunset over Narragansett Bay, all while savoring a variety of musical performances. A perfect way to celebrate the summer with friends and family! Food trucks or BYO picnic dinner, chairs or blankets. Concerts begin in July and run every Wednesday through September. Review tickets and offerings on Blithewold's events page. ​
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Organizer: Blithewold
August
Unity Park Day
August 16-17, 2025
Unity Park is a restored industrial park located at the center of Bristol, RI, within waling distance to many neighborhoods, shops, and sites. Within this tight-knit community, Unity Park is home to shops, restaurants, offices, and gathering places for all! Join us for Unity Park Day as we highlight this gem of our community!
Organizer: Unity Park
Bristol Harbor Festival & Blessing of the Fleet
August 16, 2025
Join the town at Rockwell Park for a series of great events: Blessing of the Fleet; "Stuffie" Competition; Live Music throughout the day; Cash Beer & Wine and Raw Bar; and, the highlight - a traditional native Littleneck Boil.
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Organizer: Bristol Harbor Festival
Black Ships Festival
August 22-23, 2025
Don’t miss this weekend for a series of joyful community events where immersive cultural attractions and art experiences await. Join folks who are just like you… curious about Asian cultures! On Friday, the Opening Ceremony kicks off at Rockwell Park! The celebration continues on Saturday with the Festival and Drum Performance at Independence Park! Review the full event details at the Japan-American Society website!
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Organizer: Japan-American Society, Explore Bristol, & Bristol Merchants Association
Classic Yacht Regatta & Events
August 22-24, 2025
Join the Herreshoff Museum for a full weekend of waterfront events: a live boat show, cash bar and food vendors, races scheduled each day, ending with a 'hot lap' race on Sunday! Review the full event details and more HERE.
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Organizer: Herreshoff Marine Museum
State Street Fair
August 23, 2025
Celebrate spring at the State Street Festival in Bristol, RI, where local shops, live entertainment, and community fun come together in a vibrant event with local vendors, artists, performers, and more! For more information, visit the Bristol Merchants Association HERE.
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Organizer: Bristol Merchants Association
September
Bristol Porchfest
September 14, 2025
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Bristol Porchfest brings local bands and musicians to neighbors' porches for a free community event! Visit Facebook.com/bristolporchfest for a map and more info!
Organizer: Bristol Merchants Association
State Street Festival
September 27, 2025
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Celebrate spring at the State Street Spring Festival in Bristol, RI, where local shops, live entertainment, and community fun come together in a vibrant event with local vendors, artists, performers, and more! For more information, visit the Bristol Merchants Association HERE.
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Organizer: Bristol Merchants Association
Raptor Weekend at Audobon Society of Rhode Island
TBD
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Experience the thrill of Audubon Raptor Weekend in Bristol, where owls, hawks, and falcons take center stage through live presentations and hands-on activities for all ages. Get up close with these powerful birds of prey, learn from experts, and discover their incredible adaptations in this family-friendly event!
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Organizer: Audobon Society of Rhode Island
Jonnycake Day at Coggeshall Farm
TBD
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Join us to celebrate a Rhode Island favorite - Jonny Cakes! A local RI business will be onsite to demonstrate their corn grinding process and sell some of their RI White Cap Flint Corn jonnycake mix. Visitors can also try grinding corn by hand, play games, and more.
Organizer: Coggeshall Farm
October
Homecoming & Family Weekend at Roger Williams University
October 17-19, 2025
Homecoming & Family Weekend is a time-honored tradition at Roger Williams University. Families can connect with their students and attend campus events; while alumni can re-connect with their classmates. Our events will showcase the Hawk Spirit from our athletic competitions to participating in our traditional events from Casino Night to the Autumn Festival. Review the full event and purchase tickets HERE.
Organizer: Roger Williams University
Halloween Walk-a-bout & Trunk-or-Treat
October 26, 2025
Walk throughout the Downtown Business District for a family-oriented Halloween experience! Businesses will offer candy during the walk-a-bout, and there will also be a Trunk-or-Treat! More information to come!
Organizer: Bristol Merchants Association
November
Linden Place's Autumn Artisan Market
November 1, 2025
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Linden Place’s Autumn Artisan Market in Bristol, Rhode Island showcases local talent on the historic grounds of Linden Place, an 1810 Federal period mansion. 2025 marks the sixth year of the market. All proceeds from the market benefit Linden Place and its mission to preserve the treasured property for future generations and create a welcoming environment through programs that enhance the artistic, cultural, and educational life of the community.​
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Organizer: Linden Place
Bristol Holiday Preview
November 21, 2025
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Walk throughout the Downtown Business District for an annual Holiday Preview! Businesses tend to have extended hours to allow patrons to explore and shop for holiday gifts!
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Organizer: Bristol Merchants Association
Small Business Saturday
November 22, 2025
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Continue your holiday shopping and check out all of Bristol's amazing businesses! Many have extended hours and seasonal sales!
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Organizer: Bristol Merchants Association
Santa's House Opening
TBD
The Bristol Santa House provides a magical, inclusive Santa experience focused on children with disabilities and their families. We welcome children of all abilities to share their holiday wishes and immerse in the Christmas spirit. Our accessible, sensory-friendly environment creates a place where children with autism, Down syndrome, mobility impairments, and other developmental disabilities can comfortably visit Santa regardless of physical, mental, or economic challenges. Bringing the joy of Christmas to children with special needs and their families is the heart of our mission. Review the full schedule and book your time HERE.
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Organizer: James D. Rielly Foundation
December
Christmas at Blithewold
TBD
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Step back in time at Blithewold, where the mansion comes alive each December with festive decorations inspired by the Van Wickle/McKee family’s holiday traditions. Volunteers deck the halls with greenery and themed displays, filling the house with Christmas magic and the timeless charm of a Gilded Age celebration.
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Organizer: Blithewold
Grand Illumination
December 6, 2025
Christmas in Bristol starts with the Grand Illumination - children singing, music playing, Santa arriving from the North Pole and...the lighting of the town's Christmas Tree and Hope Street in downtown Bristol. It's a magical moment.
Organizer: Bristol Christmas Festival & Town of Bristol​
Christmas Festival and European Market
December 6-7, 2025
We bring the entire Town of Bristol together to host an immersive celebration of Christmas. We have it all - rustic huts where vendors sell holiday pastries pretzels and holiday wine, to vendors selling holiday gifts and crafts, to entertainment on the stage and in the street on both days. You will see Santa strolling through the venues greeting our guests and you can enjoy wreath decorating and children can get creative with do-it-yourself craft projects. There will be plenty of opportunities to photograph special moments with family and friends. Plus...the town's businesses are open - ready to showcase their wares and talents.
Organizer: Bristol Christmas Festival & Bristol Merchants Association
Snowflake Raffle
TBD
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During the winter season, participating Bristol businesses will offer Snowflake Raffle tickets for every $25.00 spent! There are numerous prizes to win at the Snowflake Raffle!
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Organizer: Bristol Merchants Association
January
Bristol Book Fest
Weekly from January 21, 2025 to February 11, 2025
Join Bristol BookFest 2025 to explore Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 through seminars, lectures, and community discussions from January to April — celebrating literature, freedom, and thoughtful conversation. Review the full calendar and register HERE!
Organizer: Rogers Free Library
February
Bristol Book Fest
Weekly from January 21, 2025 to February 11, 2025
Join Bristol BookFest 2025 to explore Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 through seminars, lectures, and community discussions from January to April — celebrating literature, freedom, and thoughtful conversation. Review the full calendar and register HERE!
Organizer: Rogers Free Library
Newport Burger Bender
February 14-23, 2025
Newport Burger Bender, the “best burger” contest returns this February for 10 days of burger bending. Local restaurants throughout the east bay are throwing their buns in the ring with hopes of being crowned the Best Burger and there is more than just beef.
Organizer: Discover Newport
Maple Sugaring Days
February 22-23, 2025
Join Coggeshall Farm Museum for a sweet day of history and hands-on fun at our annual Maple Sugaring tradition — tap trees, carve spiles, collect sap, and watch it transform into maple sugar, with scavenger hunts, crafts, games, and a look at the region’s rich maple history. Review the full event and register HERE.
Organizer: Coggeshall Farm