See all that the city of Warwick and the state have to offer this summer- by Frank Picozzi

“Summer means happy times and good sunshine” – Brian Wilson

We can’t always guarantee sunshine, but we can promise a lineup of affordable, family-friendly events throughout the summer that are sure to create happy memories of time spent outdoors with friends and loved ones.

For many, fireworks lighting up the dark summer sky means summertime. Head to the Oakland Beach seawall on July 3 for the annual Independence Day display. Fireworks conclude the fun on August 5 during National Night Out at Rocky Point Park. Shows begin at 9 p.m./dusk. Pack a cooler full of snacks and bring a blanket to watch the fireworks in comfort!

Rocky Point Park is also the spot for marketplace events, with breathtaking Narragansett Bay as the backdrop. Shop from a lineup of vendors, enjoy live music, and sample fare from food trucks – it’s no wonder these events have become annual favorites. Serendipity, the Earl Knightwood Band, Down City Band, and Branded Country that Rocks are scheduled performers.

Somehow, live music sounds even better outdoors under a summer sky, and our concert series won’t disappoint! Bring your blankets or lawn chairs, grab some food from local food trucks, and settle in to enjoy the talented bands performing at parks and seaside locations throughout Warwick. The Earthmen, All or Nothing, Cee Cee & The Riders, and Blissful Moon are the bands slated to get your feet tapping.

May 14 marked the kickoff of the annual Oakland Beach Cruise Nights. This community favorite, sponsored by the Greater Warwick Lions Club, will be held every other Monday from 4 to 8 p.m. through Sept. 8, with rain dates of the immediate following Wednesday. Head to the seawall for great oldies music, classic cars, and good food while supporting the Lions’ great work.

The Central RI Chamber of Commerce will offer a “Movie in the Park,” complete with food trucks and vendors, at Rocky Point on July 24. Gates open at 6 p.m. The movie begins at dusk.

Who can resist locally-grown sweet corn, a salad made with freshly-picked ingredients, or a satisfying bite of juicy watermelon, plums, or peaches? Find that and more at the Goddard Park farmers’ markets, on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Oct. 10, and the Conimicut Village markets, which are held Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon through Sept. 27. Morris Farms, a fourth-generation, family-run farm, is open daily, offering produce, flowers, plants, and more. The West Bay Community Action Farm stand is open Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m. starting on June 26 through Oct. 9. Stop by for fresh-off-the vine vegetables, herbs, and more while supporting the work of the non-profit agency.

But don’t visit Warwick just for the day! You can stay here conveniently in one of our 15 hotels and see all that the city and Rhode Island have to offer.

Please go to visitwarwickri.com for lodging options, detailed information about all the events mentioned here, and suggestions about what else to experience during your stay.

Frank Picozzi is the mayor of the city of Warwick, R.I.