New
in Newport
Thursday, April 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Newport. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ 401Gives, powered by United Way, surpassed its $5 million goal when giving closed at 6 p.m. Wednesday, setting records for donors, gifts, and nonprofits as 20,112 donors made 32,544 gifts to support 705 organizations statewide. It has raised over $24 million since 2020, showing community support + momentum for local projects. What's Up Newp
- ➤ Jo Eva Gaines got a Black History Month Award for her work in education today, West Place Animal Sanctuary won a Defender vehicle to boost care, Boys Town New England named Marcy Shyllon executive director, and volunteers are needed for the Newport Secret Garden Tour on June 26 to 28. The Newport Daily News
- ➤ Newport County has several family events this weekend. On Saturday, April 4, an art exhibit opens at Middletown’s DeBlois Gallery, an Easter Egg Hunt takes place at the Evangelical Friends Church in Middletown, and Grenon’s Newport Night Run starts at Rogers High School. The Newport Daily News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ ALDI grocery stores in Rhode Island will be closed on Easter Sunday (April 5), so residents should shop ahead. Stores in Warwick, Cranston, North Smithfield, and Providence will follow regular hours on Good Friday (April 3) and Saturday (April 4). The Newport Daily News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Real Housewives of Rhode Island premieres today at 9 p.m. on Bravo featuring seven women including Cannabis Queen Liz McGraw, owner of the state’s largest cannabis dispensary. The show offers viewers a look at McGraw’s business ventures and upcoming projects, with episodes streaming on Peacock starting Friday, Apr. 3. The Newport Daily News
- ➤ This summer, the Preservation Society offers its Inside 'The Gilded Age' Tour on Tuesdays and Fridays from May 12 through Aug. 28, taking visitors through Newport Mansions including Marble House, The Breakers, Chateau-sur-Mer and The Elms — with bus service from the Gateway Transportation Center. What's Up Newp
- ➤ The Real Housewives of Rhode Island premieres today at 9 p.m. on Bravo with local former news anchor Rosie DiMare (a North Kingstown resident and lifestyle show host) joining six women and guest Dolores Catania from New Jersey as she prepares for a move. The Newport Daily News
- ➤ Zita Cobb—social entrepreneur behind Fogo Island's transformation—will speak at ReNewport’s conversation in Newport on April 8 to share insights on place-based economic growth and cultural preservation. The talk will explore sustainable tourism and community-first development for Aquidneck Island. Newport This Week
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Rogers High School juniors are launching the Donut or Donate fundraiser in which Krispy Kreme donuts are sold for ($15 each) with options to donate to MLK Center Food Pantry or McKinney Shelter to support class activities. Orders will close Thursday, April 10, with delivery set for Friday, April 17. What's Up Newp
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Rhode Island Energy said lower summer electric supply prices approved by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission are in effect. Typical residential customers using 500 kWh per month will see their monthly bill drop roughly $4 as Last Resort Service prices are about 16% lower than the winter rate. WJAR NBC 10
- ➤ Kratom is now legal in Rhode Island for those 21+ and will be sold at licensed retailers since Wednesday, April 1. Health experts advise very low doses because the plant can cause side effects such as nausea and increased heart rate. WJAR NBC 10
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Six promising high school athletes from Portsmouth, Tiverton and Rogers will lead their teams this spring in volleyball, lacrosse and track — a boost as teams aim for state championships. The Newport Daily News
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Golden Hour Experience: Newport's Twilight Beauty
Golden Hour Experience — Evening Cruise — Soap and Water Newport — Price varies — Enjoy a sunset cruise with charcuterie and champagne while taking in Newport's stunning views.
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Book Talk with Terry Gaspard
2-3 p.m. — Newport Public Library — Free entry — Explore financial discussions that strengthen relationships in this insightful book talk.
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Easter Brunch Buffet
10 AM – 3 PM — Newport Vineyards & Restaurant — Adults $85, Kids $27 — Celebrate Easter with a delightful brunch buffet and a fun egg hunt for kids.
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Big Lux and The Hype
8-11:59 p.m. — Ocean Mist — Check website for pricing — Enjoy a lively mix of reggae, funk, and rock by Sea of Giants in a vibrant coastal setting.
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Daffodil Society of Rhode Island Preview Party
5-7:30 p.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Admission details not specified — Preview stunning floral arrangements in a delightful garden setting.
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Newport Rhode Races
7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Easton's Beach — Marathon: $110, Half Marathon: $85, 5K — Experience the thrill of the race along the scenic Newport coast.
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Pollinator House Workshop
10 AM – 12 PM — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Free entry — Create a pollinator house and learn about the importance of pollination for trees on Arbor Day.
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Arbor Day Festival and Bristol Community Day
10 AM – 4 PM — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Free entry — Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the arboretum with family-friendly nature crafts and scavenger hunts.
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The British Invasion Years Live Tribute
7-10 p.m. — The JPT Film & Event Center — Ticket info not provided — Experience a lively tribute to the 1960s musical revolution featuring classic hits from The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
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Northern Italy to Tuscany Wine Dinner
6:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. — The Coast Guard House Restaurant — $— Explore the exquisite food and wine from Northern Italy and Tuscany.
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