Good morning, Newport.

Rhode Island’s first community investment fund will conclude its summer coffee shop tour Wednesday at Custom House Coffee in Middletown—its session from 8 to 9 a.m. will introduce residents to a plan that aims to raise $3.5 million for local revitalization projects.

On August 24, 2025, volunteers installed three new troll sculptures as part of artist Thomas Dambo’s Thunderstone saga, with Iver Mudslider placed in Ryan Park in North Kingstown, Mrs. Skipper near the East Bay Bike Path in East Providence, and Young Boulder located at Acadia Management Area on the Exeter/Richmond line—each site hosting an unveiling ceremony. The new installations join the earlier trolls that have drawn large crowds since 2024.

Rhode Island bands such as the Talking Heads and Throwing Muses built their roots here before earning national fame in rock and alternative music; the article notes other groups like Belly, The Cowsills, Deer Tick and John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band, which all started locally and later gained significant recognition on major stages — confirming the state's vibrant influence on American music.

Rhode Island Gov Dan McKee has supported the Learn365RI program for two years (a plan to fund learning outside of school) to help students improve their test scores; he hopes strong scores will boost his chances in a competitive 2026 race (when voters head to the polls) while some local leaders, including Johnston Mayor Joe Polisena, oppose local funding.

Today, the Rhode Island Department of Health confirmed that King Park Beach and Fort Adams Beach in Newport are open for swimming after bacteria levels dropped to safe thresholds following a closure on Aug.

22; officials will continue monitoring water quality through Labor Day weekend—ensuring swimmers' safety.

The Newport County housing market is shifting as summer ends since some homes sell in just a few days while others wait several weeks; Tyler Bernadyn explained that a potential Fed rate cut may drive more competition and push prices higher — adding uncertainty for both buyers and sellers.

Maria Sharapova and doubles legends Bob and Mike Bryan were formally inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame on Saturday at Newport’s iconic grounds—raising the Hall’s total membership to 270 legends from 28 nations—and celebrated their storied careers in a special ceremony.

Serena Williams surprised the crowd at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport by introducing Maria Sharapova—her former rival and friend—for her induction on Saturday night.

Sharapova and the Bryan twins earned applause from tennis legends as the event celebrated their storied careers.

2025 F18 Americas Championship

Aug 26-29 — Sail Newport — Registration fees apply — Experience thrilling four-day catamaran racing in the stunning Narragansett Bay.

Blithewold Annual Family Clambake

5-8 p.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Cost varies — Enjoy a traditional Rhode Island clambake while playing lawn games and exploring beautiful gardens.

Luther Dickinson Live

12:00 – 1:30 PM — Ninigret Park — Free entry — Enjoy an afternoon of music in a laid-back seaside vibe at this annual community event.

SUGAR Concert at The Rathskeller

8-11 p.m. — The Charlestown Rathskeller — $20 online, $25 at the door — Experience Sugar’s vibrant sound on a perfect summer night.

Megan Chenot Live Performance

4:30-7:30 p.m. — Castle Hill Inn — Free entry — Enjoy the versatile voice of Newport's own Megan Chenot as she covers songs from every decade.

Dueling Pianos at the Top of Pelham

8 PM - 1 AM — One Pelham East Bar & Grill — Tickets recommended — Enjoy a unique live Dueling Pianos show with audience participation and a view of Newport Harbor.

Steve Smith and the Nakeds Live Concert

8:30 PM - 2:30 AM — The Olde Theater Diner — Tickets available — Celebrate 40 years of great music with Steve Smith and a vibrant ten-man band.

NAFI Run 4 The Kidz

10 AM – 2 PM — Vigilant Brewing — Registration details available — Participate in a family-friendly 5k benefiting children’s programs.

Dueling Pianos at the Top of Pelham

8 PM – 1 AM — One Pelham East Bar & Grill — Tickets recommended — Enjoy a night of comical and nostalgic performances with audience-requested songs at Newport's unique Dueling Pianos show.

Early Morning Sensory Walks

6:30-8:00 a.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Cost may vary — Experience the tranquil beauty of nature with guided sensory immersion in the morning serenity.