Feeling Free!: No-cost events that’ll keep your summer fun

Ah, summertime in Rhode Island. The beaches, the food, the cancellation of every major event because of the COVID-19 crisis … yeah, we’re sad it’s not going to be the same, too. But – there’s still plenty to do this summer from the comfort of your own home, or while getting out and being safe and socially distanced, and, did we mention that these events are free? Find out more in the guide below: 

Great news for theater lovers around the state – Fringe PVD will go on as scheduled in an entirely digital format. It will feature performances from local artists, and it is entirely free, though the organizers will be collecting tips for artists. It’s slated for July 19 – August 1. Find out more at FringePVD.com. If you are missing live theater, a lot of our state’s stages have stepped into the screen with companies such as Epic Theatre Company and The Wilbury Theatre Group providing staged readings, fun webisodes and behind-the-scenes looks on their Facebook pages and websites. 

For crafters, Trinity Rep and The Providence Public Library are hosting a Virtual Knitting Circle on July 11. It’s a great way to get your crafty side going while remaining social. The event is on Trinity Rep’s Facebook page (fb.com/TrinityRepertoryCompany) and you must RSVP to get the link to the Zoom Knitting Circle. 

PechaKucha, which typically has a monthly in-person performance, has gone online. This is a great event to learn something new and find out more about the people in your Rhode Island community. Each month there’s a theme and each participating speaker will tell their story, accompanied by a slide show. Find out more at Pechakucha.com/cities/providence or on their Facebook page. 

There are two options for film lovers throughout the state — NewportFILM has managed to merge the digital world with safe social distancing with their pop-up Drive-In series. They will feature different films (limited to 100 cars) throughout the summer, followed by a screening online of the same film, for a suggested donation. Find out more at their website at newportfilm.com 

But, if you can’t snag one of the spots in Newport, or just can’t get enough movie time, The Collaborative in Warren is doing a Way Back Wednesday event for drive-in viewings of cult-classics and older favorite films like His Girl Friday and the 1960 Little Shop of Horrors. Find out more, and reserve your spot, at thecollaborative02885.org

The Avenue Concept has its famed self-guided art walks around Providence. You can download their guides as well as prompts for discussion to really engage with the art. This is great for the whole family, and, if you’d prefer to stay at home – they are also offering virtual art walks.  theavenueconcept.org/public-art-providence-self-guided-tours

On Mondays, MadCap offers open-mic nights, with music, poets and all kinds of entertainment to continue its series that was happening at Dusk. They’re broadcasting live at fb.com/madcapmonday/ at 7pm.

And while you technically might shed a few bucks, I highly recommend checking out the Virtual Food Truck Nights, which allow you to pick up socially distanced eats from around the state and watch virtual performances that you’d typically see at Food Truck events every summer. Find the next one, and the trucks closest to you at PVD Food Truck Events on Facebook.