Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival signaling start of event season and other weekend events

The unofficial start of the season is right around the corner, but before the Memorial Day weekend arrives the return of one of Newport's big events this weekend signals that warmer weather and the tourism season is back.

You can head out and get your fill of oysters and chowder but if big events aren't your thing there are plenty of other options across Newport County that will fill your weekend as the weather – hopefully – gets nicer.

From afternoon tea to student art or plant sales to a large community yard sale, there is something for everyone this weekend.

Take a look at what's happening and start making your plans.

Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival

One of Newport's first marquee events of the season returns to Bowen's Wharf with the 8th annual Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sip a refreshing cocktail and enjoy oysters and chowder from local growers and vendors on the waterfront all weekend long. Oyster growers will be shucking alongside local restaurants and live music under the striped festival tents. The event is open to the public and all food will be available for purchase directly from vendors, admission is free. Multiple cash bars will also be on site.

For more information, visit bowenswharf.com/events/newport-oyster-chowder-festival/

L’Heure du Thé

The Alliance Française de Newport will be hosting L’Heure du Thé – Tea Hour – on Sunday from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the French Confection at 72 East Main Road, Middletown.

Join the Alliance Française de Newport for a relaxing afternoon break with tea/coffee and a wide assortment of savory and sweet snacks to accommodate every palate, including gluten-free, nut-free and dairy-free options.

The event is open to members of the Alliance, non-members and children over the age of 12. The cost is $25 for Alliance members and $30 for non-members. There is no dress code.

Space is limited and reservations are necessary. To make a reservation and pay by credit card, visit alliancefrancaisenewportri.org/shop/

Middletown Earth Day Art Show

Catch the Middletown Earth Day Art Show, presentation of Middletown students’ artwork featuring Earth Day themes at the Middletown Public Library Community Room, 700 West Main Road, Middletown Saturday, May 25 during regular library hours.

Several students from Middletown schools shared their creative appreciation of Middletown as part of the first Middletown Earth Day Art Contest held in April 2024. Earth Day themes include protecting endangered species, keeping our water and land litter free, protecting the natural habitat of pollinators and birds, and conservation of the earth’s natural resources. Please stop by and enjoy their artistic take on keeping Middletown a beautiful place to live, work and play.

Newport in Bloom Spring Plant Sale

Newport in Bloom announces the return of its highly anticipated Annual Spring Plant Sale. Held on the lawn at the historic Elks Club, 141 Pelham, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, this year's event promises a greater variety of botanical delights.

In addition to locally cultivated treasures, this year's sale will feature an exciting array of hard-to-find annuals, perennials and succulents sourced from reputable in and out-of-state growers. Whether you're seeking vibrant hanging baskets, fragrant herbs or unique specimens to elevate your garden, there will be something special in store for every gardening enthusiast.

Proceeds from the sale contribute directly to Newport in Bloom's beautification initiatives, including the iconic hanging flower baskets along city streets, the annual Garden Competition and Awards Ceremony and public plantings throughout the city.

As we celebrate our 42nd Anniversary, Newport in Bloom remains deeply committed to fostering a culture of civic beauty and community pride. Join us in commemorating four decades of enriching our cityscape and empowering passionate gardeners throughout our community.

For more information, visit newportinbloom.org.

Portsmouth Community Yard Sale

The parking lot at Portsmouth High School will be filled with more than 30 families and nonprofits for the annual community yard sale on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event supports the Portsmouth High School class of 2026.

There will also be donation bins for Big Brothers Big Sisters (any fabric items) as well as a lemonade truck.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: What to do in Newport this weekend: Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival