Now celebrating its 27th year, the Pawtucket Arts Festival (Aug. 29–Sept. 7) highlights the city's creative culture over the course of two weeks. This year's festival focuses on education and public engagement while celebrating the diverse communities of Pawtucket.
The festival kicks off on Friday, Aug. 29 and runs through Sunday, Sept. 7 at locations around the city. Two full weekends bring a variety of family activities, including a movie night, Cape Verdean festival, theater, live music and lots more. We've rounded up a few activities you don't want to miss:
Songwriters at Slater Mill
Live music outside Slater Mill begins on Saturday, Aug. 30 at 2 p.m. Bring your chairs and blankets to enjoy local live music from Allison Rose and J. Michael Graham by the banks of the Blackstone River.
RI Dragon Boat Races and Taiwan Day Festival
Stop by Festival Pier on Saturday, Aug. 30 between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 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 2025 Empanada Fest takes place from 4–9 p.m. on Sunday. 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. 6 and 7 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 at the 9th Annual Healthy Living Community Event for face painting, bouncy houses, prizes and games.
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.
