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Del's truck catering a summer night event in Rhode Island
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10 Best Family Event Venues in Rhode Island

by guest February 15, 2024
written by guest

Hey fellow Rhode Islanders welcome to a wicked awesome exploration of the Ocean State’s finest family shindig spots! When it comes to throwin’ a family bash in Rhode Isalnd, we’ve got it goin’ on like nobody’s business. From the cobblestone streets of Providence to the shores that make our little state the Ocean State, we’re about to dive into 19 wicked cool venues that’ll make your family get-togethers downright memorable. So, buckle up your seatbelts, grab some Del’s Lemonade, and get ready for a tour of the 19 Best Family Event Venues in Rhode Island – where the family spirit meets our unique Rhody blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views. Let the good times roll, Rhode Island style!🦞

See Also: 19 Trending Private Event Venues in Rhode Island Right Now

1. Del’s Lemonade
Anywhere, RI

Our mouths were already watering after the intro so it was only right to highlight Del’s Lemonade first. Del’s Lemonade has been a staple of RI since 1948 and will make the perfect staple at your next event! Del’s Lemonade is a popular guest at weddings, birthdays, showers, cookouts, graduations, cookouts, and any other place where good people get together. Del’s makes it easy by taking care of everything from cups, to lemonade, to serving, and more. You can celebrate at one of their locations or have the truck or cart bring the party to you at any venue in Rhode Island.

Del's truck catering a summer night event in Rhode Island
Del’s truck catering a summer night event in Rhode Island
Reserve Del’s Lemonade

2. Iggy’s Doughboys and Chowder House
885 Oakland Beach Ave, Warwick, RI 02889

Another Rhode Island classic – Iggy’s Doughboys and Chowder house. Iggy’s is ready to host your next event and serve up your coastal favorites all day. You can celebrate on site at the chowder house venue that is nestled in the quiet seaside of Oakland Beach. Spectacular sunsets help make this the perfect location for Anniversary Celebrations, Retirement Parties, Birthday Parties, Engagement Parties, Rehearsal Dinners, Bridal showers, Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties, Wedding Ceremonies, Holiday Parties, and more. Private tent rentals comfortably accommodate your guests and The Boardwalk also offers a private multi-season patio for smaller events. If you prefer to celebrate somewhere else you can still bring Iggy’s to the party with their easy to order catering menu. We always recommend ordering an extra bag of doughboys for the fam!

Iggy’s outdoor seasonal patio and tent set up before an event
Iggy’s outdoor seasonal patio and tent set up before an event
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3. Lang’s Bowlarama & The Nelson Event Center
225 Niantic Ave, Cranston, RI 02907

Lang’s Bowlarama has been a family owned Rhode Island classic since 1960.  Langs now boasts a beautifully renovated space that can host events for up to 165 people. Lanes are available to be booked with your event, or booked on their own. They love hosting semi-private events at our bar, which is known for its trendy cocktails, full beer list, and even coffee! The bar is set up to serve drinks appropriate for any time of day. They recently added a new state of the art kitchen and do full in-house catering which allows us to customize an amazing menu of your choosing! They can host family style, dinner buffet or sit-down style with anything from chicken wings to prime rib. In the Nelson Event Center they have a  16 ft projector and wireless mic to allow for announcements and/or visual displays (perfect for family reunion or graduation videos!). You can dress this space up or keep it casual. Either way, we promise your family will leave with a smile.

The lanes at Lang's Bowlarama featuring Rhode Island skyline art
The lanes at Lang’s Bowlarama featuring Rhode Island skyline art
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4. KidzKastle
5 Soule St, Warwick, RI 02886

Are you ready to turn your child’s special day into an unforgettable day? Look no further than Kidz Kastle, Rhode Island’s premier destination for magical and stress-free children’s parties! Immerse your little ones in a world of wonder as they enter our enchanting space that can be customized for any occasion with decorations. Additionally, we offer Kastle To-Go Rentals if you would like to bring the party to you! Relax and enjoy the celebration while our experienced party planners take care of every detail. From personalized invitations to delicious catering options, we’ve got you covered, ensuring a stress-free experience for parents.

One of the many playstations in KidzKastle RI’s extensive venue
One of the many playstations in KidzKastle RI’s extensive venue
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5. Rock Spot Climbing
100 Higginson Ave, Lincoln, RI 02865

Rock Spot Climbing in Lincoln, Rhode Island, is not just a climbing gym—it’s a versatile adventure destination catering to a diverse range of climbers and events. Whether you’re planning a large party, organizing a group of climbers, hosting a corporate event, or simply looking to elevate your climbing skills, Rock Spot has you covered!

One of Rock Spot Climbing's Interactive Indoor rock climbing wall
One of Rock Spot Climbing’s Interactive Indoor rock climbing wall
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6. Escape Rhode Island
385 S Main St, Providence, RI 02903

Escape Rhode Island, an experience designed for private parties! Perfect for team building, corporate events or just an excuse to get your friends together! You can take the adventure outdoor with our downtown Providence experience. We can also bring the experience to you!

Escape Rhode Island on the go! Host your event at their venue or bring the experience to any one of your other favorite Rhode Island Venues
Escape Rhode Island on the go! Host your event at their venue or bring the experience to any one of your other favorite Rhode Island Venues
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7. Battleground Z
100 Higginson Ave, Lincoln, RI 02865

BattlegroundZ  offers an exciting and unique experience for any group event. Group outings are a fantastic way to build team camaraderie, strengthen co-worker bonds, or just blow off some steam in our fun-packed arenas. Your personal party host will ensure your event is a memorable one. Great games, delicious food and cocktails, and tons of fun await!

A look into Battleground Z’s lazer tag arena
A look into Battleground Z’s lazer tag arena
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8. The Bubbler VR
568 Charles Street, Providence, RI

The Bubbler VR is the premier private events VR lounge in Rhode Island. Experience exclusive access to our cutting-edge VR equipment, featuring four VR stations. Whether you prefer group play or individual adventures, they provide a diverse selection of games, including a sim racing rig. The Bubbler VR caters to every style and interest, offering a nostalgic trip with old-school Nintendo and Sega games. Elevate your event with karaoke using our provided microphones. Indulge in our renowned mock-tails, suitable for both kids and adults, as you enjoy your time in the virtual world.

An inside peek into The Bubbler VR Lounge and Game space
An inside peek into The Bubbler VR Lounge and Game space
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9. Stella Sweets
568 Charles Street, Providence, RI

Stella sweets are great for any occasion that needs a sweet twist! They are always requested at birthdays, weddings, charity fundraisers, and corporate events! They’re an ice cream shop located in North providence RI serving up some of the yummiest creations you can imagine. They have boozy ice cream drinks or your classic scoops. They also offer up fried ice cream, crepes, and just about anything you can imagine involving frozen dairy!

A look into Stella Sweets on a summer night.
A look into Stella Sweets on a summer night.
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10. Archery Games PVD
40 Sonoma Court, Providence, RI 02909

Combat archery is the ultimate activity for corporate team-building, birthday parties, bachelor-bachelorette parties, and many more events! Archery Games is the perfect mix of athletics, strategy, and team work. The unique space can be reserved for a private event and can accommodate groups of 12-60 players looking to have a super fun and unique experience!

The main game room at Archery Games PVD
The main game room at Archery Games PVD
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Thanks for joining us on this journey through Rhode Island’s finest family event venues! From historic streets to stunning shores, we’ve uncovered the gems that’ll make your gatherings truly unforgettable. So, gather your loved ones, soak in the Rhody charm, and let the good times roll. Here’s to countless memories made in the Ocean State! 🌊

February 15, 2024 0 comments
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Eat Drink RI Festival logo
chefs & restaurantsfarmsnewswine & drinks

Eat Drink RI Festival: April 25 – 28, 2018 | All-Local Celebration of Everything Edible returns for a 7th Year

by David Dadekian May 6, 2018
written by David Dadekian

Eat Drink RI Festival logo

The 7th Annual Eat Drink RI Festival is a celebration showcasing the best of the culinary world in Rhode Island. Presenting farmers, chefs, bartenders and food & drink artisans from across the region, this year’s Festival offers a brand new wine tasting experience, the return of Dinner by Dames, the largest food truck event in the area, and culminates with the Grand Tasting, an All-Local Tasting featuring even more culinary & beverage presentations than before. Tickets and more information can be found at eatdrinkri.com/festival.

This year’s festival kicks off with Rhode Island’s first Sommelier Smackdown at the gorgeous, newly renovated Café at Easy Entertaining! This brand new event is co-hosted by Certified Sommeliers Ian Magiros of M.S. Walker and Jonathan Feiler of Rhode Island Distributing. The Smackdown will pit Certified Sommeliers Justin Bothur of Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn, Alan Freudeman of Gracie’s, Ali Innes of bin 312 wine cellar, and Alí Quero of Los Andes against each other in a wine theory quiz, a blind wine tasting, and a food & wine pairing collaboration with a local chef. Guests will vote on the fan favorite pairing and judges will tally the points of all three components of the competition to decide who reigns supreme in RI’s wine world. Tickets include wine tastings, food & wine pairing, and hors d’oeuvres.

One of Rhode Island’s most popular dining series, Dinner by Dames, returns on the Thursday evening of the Festival. This dining experience brings together five of Rhode Island’s most talented chefs—Melissa Denmark of Gracie’s and Ellie’s Bakery, Jordan Goldsmith of Moonrose Farm, Maria Meza of El Rancho Grande, Ashley Vanasse of Easy Entertaining Inc. and Jessica Wood of Fire and Water Restaurant Group—for a multi-course dining event. For the 2018 Eat Drink RI Festival three guest chef Dames are joining the team: Lisa Lofberg of Little Moss, Rebecca Lentrichia of Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel and Caitlyn McGuire of Ellie’s Bakery.

To make the evening that much more special, Jen Davis of The Eddy, along with a group of RI’s top bartenders—Cassie Coutard of Courtland Club and New Harvest Coffee & Spirits, Megan Freitas, Sam Royds of Gracie’s, Elizabeth Sawtelle of Nicks on Broadway, Britt Simons of Persimmon and Kayleigh Speck of The East End—are creating cocktail pairings for each course with spirits very kindly provided by Origin Beverage Co. Dinner by Dames will once again be held at the beautiful Skyline at Waterplace in downtown Providence. In addition, Dinner by Dames coincides with this year’s Paint the Town RED to benefit AIDS Care Ocean State and Eat Drink RI is proud to donate a portion of Dames proceeds to ACOS.

Every year the Truck Stop to benefit the Rhode Island Community Food Bank continues to grow! The event is back at the Food Bank’s huge lot in Providence with twenty-three mobile food vendors and a trio of local beverage greats! This sixth annual Truck Stop showcases even more of the excellence and variety of Rhode Island’s mobile restaurants, features local musicians the Superchief Trio, and also benefits an organization dedicated to ending hunger. Trucks include: Citizen Wing, Friskie Fries, GottaQ Smokehouse BBQ, Noble Knots, Portu-Galo and more.

The Eat Drink RI Festival Grand Tasting features samplings of over sixty locally produced beer, wine & spirits, as well as an abundance of local food artisans in Hall D of the Rhode Island Convention Center. Grand Tasting participants include: American Mussel Harvesters, Jonathan Edwards Winery, Los Andes, Narragansett Creamery, Revival Brewing Company, Seven Stars Bakery, Yacht Club Soda and so many more.

During the Tasting there will be all-new local food & drink presentations on the Frigidaire Professional Presentation Stage sponsored and provided by Wickford Appliance featuring Rhode Island’s top chefs paired with a local producer to wow attendees with some of the best food in the country, all included with admission to the Grand Tasting.

  • Easy Entertaining’s Chef Ashley Vanasse and Narragansett Creamery’s Pattie & Mark Federico
  • Nicks on Broadway’s Chef Derek Wagner and Blackbird Farm’s Ann Marie Bouthillette
  • Tallulah’s Taqueria’s Chef Jake Rojas and American Mussel Harvesters

In addition, a 2nd food & drink presentation area has been added at this year’s Grand Tasting. Get a floor-level, up-close look at the detail work & techniques of these chefs and artisans with this more interactive and intimate show area.

  • Pastaio’s Chef Adam Baffoni on Pasta
  • Ellie’s Bakery’s Chefs Melissa Denmark and Caitlyn McGuire on Decorating Desserts
  • El Rancho Grande’s Joaquin Meza on Cocktails

The key to the Eat Drink RI Festival is that it is dedicated to showcasing Rhode Island food and drink. This Festival, unlike many others, is about local chefs, bartenders, farmers, brewers, distillers, producers and more—the people who have elevated Rhode Island to national renown for its culinary scene. Tickets and more information can be found at eatdrinkri.com/festival.

May 6, 2018 0 comments
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chefs & restaurantsnews

Eye Cookies Wins Rhode Island Food Fights Spectacular Cookie Smackdown

by David Dadekian December 9, 2012
written by David Dadekian

First place winner Eye Cookies' Katrin Schnippering's daughter, Schnippering and award-designer Gail Ahlers

First place winner Eye Cookies’ Katrin Schnippering’s daughter, Schnippering and award-designer Gail Ahlers

The third RI Food Fights event, the Spectacular Cookie Smackdown, took place this past Sunday, December 9, 2012. A sold out crowd descended upon Fête in Providence to sample the best cookies in Rhode Island. Fifteen area bakers competed to see who had the greatest cookie, according to a panel of four culinary judges (which included this writer), along with competing for the People’s Choice. Three awards, created by Ahlers Designs, and an honorable mention were announced by the time cookie devouring ended.

According to judges Pastry Chef Melissa Denmark of Gracie’s, Chef Maria Meza of El Rancho Grande, Andrew Shotts of Garrison Confections and David Dadekian of Eat Drink RI. First place went to Eye Cookies, a custom-order cookie baker from Barrington, for their “Gangnam Style” frosted chocolate cookie. Second place went to Dizzie Lizzie’s Cookies of Warwick for a their salted oatmeal, chocolate chip, pecan cookie. The judges’ Honorable Mention went to Flour Girls Baking Company of nearby Marion, Massachusetts and the People’s Choice award went to Kami Cakes of Johnston for their macaron. Congratulations to all the winners.

The Spectacular Cookie Smackdown at Fête

The Spectacular Cookie Smackdown at Fête

RI Food Fights was created and produced by Jim Nellis. Mike Ritz and John Taraborelli very entertainingly hosted the event, and Jess Powers of Fête provided the very important task of cookie delivery to the judging stage.

 

 

 

 

Eye Cookies' first place winning cookie "Gangnam Style"

Eye Cookies’ first place winning cookie “Gangnam Style”

December 9, 2012 0 comments
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GaGa Wins Rhode Island Food Fights Incredible Ice Cream Throwdown

by David Dadekian July 23, 2012
written by David Dadekian

Inside Alex and Ani’s Teas and Javas's ice cream cart

Inside Alex and Ani’s Teas and Javas’s ice cream cart

The second RI Food Fights event, the Incredible Ice Cream Throwdown, took place this past Saturday, July 21, 2012. A sold out crowd descended upon the Wayland Square neighborhood in Providence to sample the best ice creams in Rhode Island. Eleven area ice cream makers competed to see who had the greatest frozen dessert treat according to a panel of three culinary judges (which included this writer) and the People’s Choice. Three awards, created by Ahlers Designs, and two honorable mentions were announced by the time the three hours of ice cream eating had come to a close.

It was a very close score between first and second place according to judges Pastry Chef Melissa Denmark of Gracie’s, Andrew Shotts of Garrison Confections and David Dadekian of Eat Drink RI. First place went to GaGa for their Lemon SherBetter, sold in a number of area stores. Second place, as well as People’s Choice, went to Three Sisters of Hope St. in Providence for their Kulfi ice cream, an almond base with cardamom, cinnamon and pistachios. The judges Honorable Mention went to The Inside Scoop‘s Turtle Chocolate Chip and the People’s Honorable Mention went to Bliss/Munroe Dairy for Graham Central Station. Congratulations to all the winners.

RI Food Fights was created and produced by Jim Nellis and Casey Spencer. John Taraborelli ably and entertainingly hosted the event, and Kristen Minsky was the fabulous Ice Cream Hostess. The other competitors were Savory Scoop Ice Cream, Ben and Jerry’s Eastside, DeCiantis Ice Cream, Teas and Javas, Mr. Nick’s Gelato and Ice Cream, Newport Creamery and Like No Udder.

First place winners from GaGa along with Kristen Minsky (in red) and host John Taraborelli (on right). GaGa President/CEO Jim King in light blue.

First place winners from GaGa along with Kristen Minsky (in red) and host John Taraborelli (on right). GaGa President/CEO Jim King in light blue.

Second place and People's Choice First Place winners from Three Sisters

Second place and People’s Choice First Place winners from Three Sisters

The award plates created by Ahlers Designs, Inc.

The award plates created by Ahlers Designs, Inc.

Three Sisters ice cream cart

Three Sisters ice cream cart

July 23, 2012 0 comments
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