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 24

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 25–27

The festival features three days of 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.

Gaspee Days Parade & 5K Foot Race — June 8

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 9

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!

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Historic Providence

Today, many of Providence's historic landmarks are open to the public, including the RISD Museum, the state's leading museum of art and design; the John Brown House Museum, a landmark from the 18th century; and the Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum, an American National Historic Landmark.