Now celebrating its 26th year, the Pawtucket Arts Festival (Aug. 31–Sept. 8) highlights the city's creative culture over two weeks. This year's festival focuses on education and public engagement while celebrating the diverse communities of Pawtucket.
The festival kicks off on Saturday, Aug 31. and runs through Sunday, Sept. 8 at locations around the city. Two full weekends bring a variety of family activities, including a farmers market, plein air painting, theater, live music and lots more. We've rounded up a few activities you don't want to miss:
River Bend East — Songwriters Festival
Live music outside Slater Mill begins on Friday, Aug. 30 at 6:30 p.m. and continues on Saturday afternoon. Bring your chairs and blankets to enjoy local live and multimedia music experiences by the banks of the Blackstone River.
RI Dragon Boat Races and Taiwan Day Festival
Stop by Festival Pier on Saturday, Aug. 31 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to catch the dragon boat races and enjoy cultural performances, vendors and interactive activities. Don't miss out on the food trucks — there's even a dumpling eating contest. Who doesn't love a dumpling? (Foodies, be sure to save a little room, though, because the 2024 Empanada Fest takes place from 4–7 p.m. on Saturday. Get your tickets in advance to sample the best local empanadas and vote for your favorites.)
Slater Park's Fall Festival
Slater Park's Fall Festival on Sept. 7 and 8 will be home to a market featuring more than 100 crafters and artisans, food trucks, live music from the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra, and even fireworks on Saturday night. Check out more family fun on Saturday afternoon with the 8th Annual Healthy Living Community Event.
With such a wide variety of cultural events, the Pawtucket Arts Festival will be sure to keep everyone entertained. A full calendar of events and locations is available at the festival website.
