Good morning, Newport.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce donated $1M to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank on Thursday, July 2 to support 137 local food agencies + the couple is preparing for their upcoming wedding in New York City and has asked guests not to bring gifts.

Newport is getting ready for Fourth of July celebrations with fireworks starting at 9:15 p.m. at Newport Harbor; families will also enjoy live music, food trucks, and lawn games (best views include Perrotti Park and Fort Adams State Park).

The Declaration of Independence will be read on July 4 at 11 a.m. from the steps of the Colony House in Washington Square, marking a long-standing tradition that echoes Major John Handy’s historic reading in 1776.

The Redwood Library unveiled 'Robert Duncanson: Landscapes to Freedom,' a show featuring 19th-century landscapes with a reception held from 6 to 8 p.m. on July 2 as part of its ongoing 'Newport in the Age of Revolution' exhibition available through January 2027.

Newport’s eight-foot monument to Rochambeau, moved from Broadway to King Park in 1940 for historical accuracy, now overlooks Newport Harbor and will be part of an upcoming conservation assessment by the Public Sculpture Commission — donations are welcomed.

Since the 1930s, the Sons of the Revolution have placed markers at historic Newport sites such as Equality Park, where H.M.S.

Liberty was burned on July 19, 1769, to honor Revolutionary War events.

Bald eagles are now seen more often in our region, with sightings noted in Barrington, East Providence & South County and a possible nesting pair on Aquidneck Island.

The species, adopted as a national symbol in 1782 and once endangered by DDT, shows a strong recovery that connects our community to its heritage.

Rhode Island Department of Health and Department of Environmental Management advised residents to avoid Upper Melville Pond in Portsmouth, Wenscott Reservoir in North Providence, and Wilson Reservoir in Burrillville because harmful algae blooms have surpassed safe levels.

Swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking are high risk until tests confirm safe water.

Wellington Resort, a landmark waterfront hospitality property at Thames Street and Wellington Avenue, is listed for sale by David Huberman and Mike Sweeney of Gustave White Sotheby’s International Realty.

The 5.27 acre site features 52 guest suites and approved zoning to expand the facility into 152 units.

Fireworks Sail on Schooner Aurora

8-10 p.m. — Schooner Aurora — $105 per person — Experience a spectacular fireworks show while sailing on the historic Schooner Aurora in celebration of America's 250th anniversary.

Newport Library Chess Club

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Newport Public Library — Free entry — A friendly chess gathering for all skill levels every 1st and 3rd Tuesday.

Newport Classical Music Festival: Sandbox Percussion & Kristin Lee

8-10 p.m. — The Breakers — Cost not listed — Experience a breathtaking performance by Sandbox Percussion alongside violinist Kristin Lee at a historic venue.

The Jeweled Collective: Jewelry Pop-Up

2-5 p.m. — Newport Harbor Island Resort — Free entry — Explore fine vintage, antique, and contemporary jewelry from various talented artisans.

Newport Kite Festival

12-6 p.m. — Brenton Point State Park — Free entry — Experience the joy of colorful kites soaring high at Rhode Island's beloved annual festival.

The Lafayette Band Concert

5-7 p.m. — Touro Park — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful evening of historic music in the beautiful setting of Touro Park.

Willie J Laws Jr and The Ocean Mistics Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Ocean Mist — Cost not specified — Experience a night of modern funky blues with deep Texas roots music.

The Earl Knightwood Band at The Towers

7-10 p.m. — The Towers — $20 Tickets available at the door — Experience the rhythmic fusion of R&B, Funk, and Soul with The Earl Knightwood Band.

Pomham Rocks Lighthouse Morning Tours

9-11:30 a.m. — Edgewood Yacht Club — Ticket required — Explore a beautifully restored historical lighthouse and its scenic surroundings.

Newport Jazz Age Weekend

All weekend — Founders Hall — Check website for costs — Experience the vibrant spirit of the Jazz Age with music, dance, and more.