As the warmth of summer peaks in August, Rhode Island bursts into a vibrant tapestry of festivals, fairs, and community celebrations. Though the Ocean State is the smallest state in the U.S., it punches far above its weight when it comes to summertime events. From seaside seafood feasts and art festivals to classic country fairs and music-filled weekends, August 2025 in Rhode Island promises a dynamic mix of cultural flavor and old-fashioned fun.
Rhode Island’s August 2025 fairs and festivals highlight local traditions, summer energy, and unique attractions throughout the state:
Here’s a guide to the top fairs and festivals taking place throughout the state this August.
Washington County Fair
Dates: August 14–18, 2025
Location: Richmond, RI
The Washington County Fair is one of Rhode Island’s largest and most beloved summer traditions. Held annually at the fairgrounds in Richmond, this five-day event is a true celebration of the state’s agricultural heritage.
Attendees can expect livestock exhibits, 4-H competitions, tractor pulls, and horse shows. The fair also boasts a robust midway complete with rides, games, and all the fair food favorites—from fried dough to kettle corn. Local artisans display their work, while dozens of food vendors serve up traditional fair eats alongside Rhode Island staples like clam cakes and chowder.
Live music is a huge draw, with country, bluegrass, and folk acts gracing the main stage each evening. For families, it’s a safe and wholesome experience; for others, it’s a nostalgic journey back to simpler times.
Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF)
Dates: August 5–11, 2025
Location: Providence and surrounding towns
RIIFF has grown into one of New England’s premier film festivals. Each August, filmmakers from around the globe descend on Rhode Island to showcase their work. The 2025 edition is set to feature over 300 films across multiple venues in Providence, Bristol, Narragansett, and Newport.
The festival celebrates independent filmmaking in all its forms—shorts, documentaries, animated films, student work, and full-length features. Notably, RIIFF is a qualifying festival for the Academy Awards, making it a launchpad for rising talent.
Beyond screenings, there are workshops, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions with directors, writers, and actors. The atmosphere is creative, diverse, and globally minded—reflecting the state’s growing cultural scene.
Newport Jazz Festival (Encore Events)
Dates: Select August weekends
Location: Newport, RI
While the main Newport Jazz Festival occurs in late July, August 2025 sees a continuation of smaller jazz-centered events and performances throughout the month in Newport and nearby areas. Local clubs and harbor-side venues will host intimate jazz nights featuring both emerging artists and seasoned legends.
Expect elegant evenings at places like the Newport Vineyards or Castle Hill Inn, where music pairs beautifully with fine wine, food, and coastal breezes. These encore events preserve the spirit of the original festival while offering more personal, immersive experiences.
Rhode Island Seafood Festival (Pre-Fest Kickoff Events)
Main Festival Dates: September, but kickoff events in August
Location: Providence and Newport
Although the main festival is held in early September, August is packed with preview events celebrating Rhode Island’s world-class seafood. In 2025, participating restaurants and seafood shacks across Providence and Newport will host pre-fest “Seafood Summer Nights” every Friday.
These preview nights feature prix-fixe menus, local beer and wine pairings, and demonstrations by top Rhode Island chefs. Expect plenty of oysters, stuffed quahogs, lobster rolls, and calamari—Rhode Island’s official state appetizer.
It’s a must for food lovers eager to taste the best the coast has to offer before the full festival arrives.
Charlestown Seafood Festival
Dates: August 1–3, 2025
Location: Ninigret Park, Charlestown, RI
Held at the beginning of the month, the Charlestown Seafood Festival is a mouthwatering event that blends coastal cuisine with family-friendly entertainment. It’s regularly ranked among the top food festivals in the U.S.
Visitors can sample everything from lobster dinners and fried scallops to clam chowder and shrimp tacos. There’s also a beer and wine garden, craft vendors, and live music throughout the weekend. Fireworks on Saturday night cap off the festivities with a colorful display over Ninigret Pond.
This festival draws big crowds, so early arrival and pre-purchased tickets are advised.
India Day Festival
Date: August 17, 2025
Location: India Point Park, Providence
Rhode Island’s vibrant Indian community celebrates its heritage and culture with a colorful day-long festival at India Point Park. India Day features traditional music and dance performances, yoga sessions, food stalls, and art displays.
Visitors can explore Indian culture through classical dances like Bharatanatyam and Kathak, or modern Bollywood performances. The event also includes booths selling jewelry, clothing, crafts, and cultural goods.
It’s an inclusive, joyful celebration that draws attendees of all backgrounds, united by a love for Indian culture and cuisine.
Black Ships Festival
Dates: August 8–10, 2025
Location: Newport and Bristol, RI
This unique festival commemorates the historic friendship between Japan and the United States, stemming from Commodore Matthew Perry’s 1850s expedition. The Black Ships Festival blends Japanese cultural traditions with American hospitality.
Highlights include a Japanese tea ceremony, taiko drumming, martial arts demonstrations, origami workshops, and the beloved sushi and sake tastings. A formal gala and waterfront fireworks display round out the event.
Held in scenic Newport and Bristol, the festival offers a peaceful and educational experience, perfect for families and cultural enthusiasts.
Rhythm & Roots Festival
Dates: August 29–September 1, 2025 (Labor Day Weekend)
Location: Charlestown, RI
Though it spills into September, the Rhythm & Roots Festival kicks off in August and deserves a place on this list. This beloved music festival focuses on Americana, folk, blues, Cajun, zydeco, and roots music.
Held at Ninigret Park, the festival is known for its laid-back atmosphere, camping options, and diverse lineup of national and local performers. There’s also a dance tent where zydeco and swing dancing go late into the night.
With food trucks, artisan markets, and activities for kids, it’s an end-of-summer celebration for all ages.
Scandinavian Summer Festival
Date: August 24, 2025
Location: Scandinavian Home, Cranston, RI
A lesser-known gem, the Scandinavian Summer Festival celebrates the Nordic heritage of Rhode Islanders with roots in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland.
Expect folk music, traditional costumes, crafts, and smörgåsbord-style food—think gravlax, meatballs, and open-faced sandwiches. There are also storytelling sessions, Viking-themed games, and dancing around the maypole.
It’s a smaller, more intimate event, but rich in community and cultural pride.
Only in Little Rhody…
August in Rhode Island offers something for everyone—whether you’re into film and music, seafood and local fare, or international cultural experiences. These festivals provide more than entertainment; they foster community, showcase local talent, and celebrate the diverse identities that shape the state.
As summer slowly winds toward its close, Rhode Islanders and visitors alike gather to savor every last moment of warmth and togetherness. From the fried dough of the county fair to the refined notes of jazz on the Newport coast, August 2025 is Rhode Island at its most festive and flavorful.
