Gourmet on the Go: A guide to this summer’s must-visit food truck events

This summer, embark on a culinary journey like no other. With the sun shining brighter and the days getting longer, it’s the perfect time to explore the state’s vibrant food truck scene. From waterfront picnics to parkland feasts, here’s your go-to guide for not-to-be-missed food truck events, each with its unique flavor and flair.

Food Truck Friday Roger Williams Park, Providence: Every Friday from April 19 through Sep 27, Carousel Village becomes your go-to for a weekend kickstart, featuring an impressive selection of food trucks and live music.

“We have more trucks than ever before, this year in RI,” says Eric Wiener of PVD Food Truck Events, which manages the event at RWP and many other truck events across the state.

When asked if he’s seeing any trends in the shared Food Truck Universe this year, he says, “People are focusing more on customer service and on creating an experience.”

Food Truck Fridays Mulligan’s Island, Cranston: Work up an appetite on the putt putt course and then hit the trucks for grub. A perfect way to blow off steam after the work week. Every Friday through August 30.

Some inside baseball: Ocean State Food Festivals runs Food Truck Fridays at Mulligan’s Island in Cranston and other events around the state. They’re seeing an expansion in non-food-truck participation in their events, including kids activities and vendors with crafts, locally made jewelry, crystals and more. “We have far more trucks involved than ever before, more bouncy houses and other vendors,” says Mike McAteer of OSFF and owner of Cup of Joe and the Hot Potato food truck. “We also have a lot more municipal events coming – we’re going to be in some pretty interesting cities this year.” “We’re also focusing on the live music a lot more this year,” adds OSFF co-owner Joe Boisvert, excited about the bands that will accompany this year’s food and drink.

Assembly of Food Trucks 2024, Harrisville: The Assembly Theatre sets the stage for a series of Sunday soirées on June 30, July 28, August 25, and October 13. Enjoy a serene riverside setting, good eats, and beats.

Charlestown Craves Food Truck Nights, Charlestown: Dive into the heart of Charlestown at Ninigret Park for two special evenings on May 9 and June 6. Experience the community spirit under the stars with fantastic food and tunes.

Cumberland Community Celebration, Cumberland: Don’t miss the revelry at Diamond Hill State Park on August 10, featuring live music, artisan vendors, and a mouth-watering selection of food trucks nestled in nature.

Luau at the Island, Friday, July 5 will feature a special post-4th-of-July theme with music by Hula-la and the Unlikely Strummers. All are encouraged to wear Hawaiian garb, and leis will be on hand at Mulligan’s Island in Cranston, along with the usual wide selection, bouncy houses and sweet and savories.

Food Trucks & Concerts Chase Farm 2024, Lincoln: After the Memorial Day Parade on May 27, and on select Saturdays (June 15, July 6, August 3, September 14), Chase Farm offers serene vibes, live bands, and diverse culinary options.

Food Truck Eats & Beats at Sons of Liberty, South Kingstown: Spend a leisurely May 25, and Sundays on June 16, July 14, and August 11 enjoying award-winning spirits, live music, and a variety of food trucks.
Food Trucks Hop into Hopkinton, Hopkinton: Mark your calendars for May 2, June 19, and August 1 for a blend of street eats, live tunes, and craft beers in the center of Hopkinton.

Food Truck Picnic in the Park 2024, Attleboro, MA: On June 23, July 21, and August 18, Capron Park invites you to picnic with a backdrop of live music and a parade of food trucks.

Food Truck Sunsets, Safe Harbor New England Boatworks, Portsmouth: Celebrate the beauty of Saturdays on June 22, July 13, and August 17 with scenic views, live bands, and a selection of food trucks.

Food Trucks at The Gates, Fall River, MA: Explore the Gates to the City on June 13, July 11, and August 8 for an evening of great food, music, and the scenic waterfront atmosphere.

Foster Fairgrounds Food Truck Night, Foster: Enjoy a dozen plus food truck options and libations from Trinity Brewery on June 26 and August 21.

Johnston Food Truck Nights, Memorial Park, Johnston: Take in community vibes, delicious meals, and refreshing drinks on May 30, July 27, and August 31.

Midweek Mobile Munchies and Music, Woonsocket: Break up the week with fantastic food truck fare and music on June 5, July 10, and August 7 near the Blackstone, MA border.

Sunday Food Truck Funday, Sacred Cow, East PVD: May 26 and August 11 offer the perfect blend of ice cream indulgence, food truck delights, and chill vibes at Munroe Dairy’s Sacred Cow Ice Cream Shop.
Warwick Food Truck Night, Crowne Plaza, Warwick: From May 16 through October 4 (select Thursdays and a special Friday), Crowne Plaza is your destination for foodie fun, with live music and diverse cuisines.
Here’s to a summer filled with flavor, fun, and food trucks. Bon appétit!

Follow Ocean State Food Truck Festivals at fb.com/OSFoodTruckFestivals and PVD Food Truck Events at fb.com/pvdfoodtruckevents.

Additional reporting by Mike Ryan.