Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 5th of July.
Good morning, Providence.
Providence Parks Department has redesigned and built water parks with new plans so they can be used after hours and offer more than just water play.
General Street Park opened on June 23 while sites like James Ahearn Park will open in July—Father Lennon Park remains under construction and visitors under 18 receive free weekday meals at most parks.
Angel Winpenny, owner of The Patio on Broadway, will soon buy Trinity Brewhouse from longtime owner and former state senator Josh Miller, one of Providence's oldest brewpubs.
She and her family partners plan minor renovations that preserve Trinity's historical charm while modernizing key areas—with a reopening set in September.
North Providence Council President Dino Autiello said he was disturbed after it was reported Tuesday that employee Alessio Dandrea—on bail for federal charges—allegedly replaced a coworker’s Gatorade with toxic window wash fluid, which led to poisoning and hospital treatment, and he plans to request hiring records to review the oversight.
Kennedy Plaza rink is hosting roller disco nights with colorful lights, curated DJ sets, themed weekends, and beginner workshops through Halloween.
Admission is $9 for adults — $6 for kids, and events run every Thursday and Friday night plus the first Saturday night of each month until October 31.
WaterFire Providence hosted a full lighting for Independence Day on Friday, July 4 with vendors and music programming starting at 6:30 p.m. and the sunset lighting at 8:24 p.m.—the event ended at 12 a.m.—marking a highlight in the city's celebration.
Rhode Island education leaders launched the 2025 Attendance Matters RI Student Video Contest for public high school students to create 30-second to three-minute videos that show why attending school matters.
Videos must include the phrase 'Attendance Matters, Rhode Island' and be uploaded by Sept. 30 at 11:59 p.m. while winners will be announced in the fall.
Scientists say warmer water this summer has helped more jellyfish appear near Rhode Island, and lion’s mane jellyfish—known for their painful sting—have been seen off the New England coast.
The guide explains that while moon jellies sting mildly, the Atlantic Sea Nettle, clinging jellyfish and Portuguese Man O’ War can cause discomfort—advising visitors to be cautious in the water.
Gov. Dan McKee said his team met with Rhode Island Energy reps on July 4 to review their response to the storm on July 3 that left 20,000 customers without power.
He described the communication and systems issues as unacceptable + ordered a full review while dispatching 100 more crews.
Construction is underway at the new state health laboratories facility at 150 Richmond St. in Providence which will provide 80,000 square feet—a 20% to 30% increase over the cramped labs on Orms Street—to support forensic science, clinical toxicology, environmental sciences, and infectious disease response. Gov. Dan McKee and members of the media toured the project on June 24th.
On Friday, the state archives opened for public viewing — residents saw three copies of the Declaration of Independence from 9 a.m. to noon and a portrait titled Brave Men as Ever Fought honoring the first state regiment.
Return of the Dinosaurs
8-9 a.m. — Roger Williams Park Zoo — Special sensory-friendly morning — Experience the dinosaur trail designed for families with autism spectrum disorders and sensory processing differences.
Providence Art Club New Exhibitions
2-4 p.m. — Providence Art Club — Free entry — Explore vibrant new art exhibitions featuring local artists showcasing their creative journeys.
Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park
5:00-8:30 p.m. — Carousel Village — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening filled with local food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Live Music Night: Edict, Tarcil, Edjinn, Rose Lane, Voluntary Victim
5:30-11:30 p.m. — Alchemy — $15 tickets — Enjoy a night of energetic performances from local bands in a vibrant venue.
Holy Roller at The Parlour
8 PM – 12 AM — The Parlour Providence — $19.27 — Experience the energetic southern rock sound of Holy Roller as they take the stage.
Evening Sky Jazz Concert
7 PM – 1 AM — Red Door — Admission varies — Experience the soulful sounds of a Jazz/Roots Quartet featuring talented musicians.
Weekly Woonasquatucket River Greenway Walk
5:30-6:30 p.m. — Riverside Park — Free entry — Enjoy a community-friendly walk along the scenic river greenway while learning about local flora, fauna, and history.
Storytime Sessions
11 a.m. — Books On the Square — Free entry — Enjoy delightful tales during storytime for children at a cozy local bookstore.
Jessie's Girl Concert
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Providence Performing Arts Center — Ticket purchase supports a cause — Experience live music while contributing to A Just Harvest.
Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park
5:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Carousel Village — Free entry — Savor a variety of local food trucks while enjoying live music and family-friendly activities.
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