Not-to-Miss Gaspee Days Events
If you'd like to get a jump on celebrating Independence Day, visit Pawtuxet Village on the Warwick/Cranston line this spring. Since 1965, this Colonial-era neighborhood, now a trendy destination for restaurants and shops, has hosted Gaspee Days, a commemoration of the burning in the cove of the British schooner HMS Gaspee by patriotic Rhode Islanders. Gaspee Days features numerous events, including an arts and crafts festival, a Colonial encampment, concerts, fireworks and an iconic Colonial-themed parade.
Block Party — May 22
Head to Pawtuxet Park for an evening of drinks, music and neighborhood fun. Admission is $5 and drink tickets can be purchased for beer, wine and bottled water. This event is adults only and outside beverages are not permitted.
Arts & Crafts Festival — May 23–25
The festival features outdoor shopping, eating, music and family-friendly fun on Memorial Day Weekend. Stroll Narragansett Parkway and shop from over 100 artisans, community groups and nonprofits. Then take a break from shopping with a bite to eat and live music from local bands in Pawtuxet Park.
Symphony in the Park & Fireworks — June 6
Enjoy a relaxing evening as the Warwick Symphony Orchestra performs a collection of musical masterpieces, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. Bring a chair or blanket and claim your spot to enjoy the show.
Gaspee Days Parade & 5K Foot Race — June 13
The Gaspee Days Parade is not to be missed! With Colonial groups, fife and drum corps, fire trucks and even the Shriners in their miniature cars, there's something for everyone as friends and neighbors celebrate Rhode Island's revolutionary history. Want to be a part of things and get some exercise? Register for the 5K Foot Race before the parade. More than 1,600 runners race each year for prizes or just for fun. Proceeds from the race support funding for the Gaspee Days Parade.
Sunday in the Park & Burning of the Gaspee — June 14
Gaspee Days wraps up with Sunday in the Park, featuring live music, Colonial encampment and maneuvers, children's games and live music. The event culminates with the annual reenactment of the burning of the HMS Gaspee. Bring a blanket and a picnic and watch the cannons fire!
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is Gaspee Days?
Gaspee Days takes place each year from late May through mid-June in Pawtuxet Village. In 2026, events ran from May 22 to June 14.
- Where is Gaspee Days held?
Gaspee Days is held in historic Pawtuxet Village, on the Warwick/Cranston line, with many events in Pawtuxet Park and along Narragansett Parkway.
- What does Gaspee Days celebrate?
Gaspee Days commemorates the 1772 burning of the British schooner HMS Gaspee by Rhode Island patriots, one of the earliest acts of rebellion leading up to the American Revolution.
- When is the Gaspee Days Parade?
The parade is held on a Saturday in mid-June and features Colonial groups, fife and drum corps, fire trucks, and Shriners in miniature cars. In 2026, it took place on June 13.
- Can I run in the Gaspee Days 5K?
Yes. The 5K Foot Race is held before the parade and draws more than 1,600 runners. Proceeds help fund the parade.
- Is there an admission fee for Gaspee Days?
Most events are free to attend. The Block Party has a $5 admission fee, with drink tickets sold separately.
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