✨ PVD Current #73 | Feb 7 - 14

Subscribe | Follow | Advertise

Good morning, Providence. Settle in, sip whatever gets you going, and let PVD Current serve up everything you need to know for the week ahead ☕️

In today’s edition:

• Lots of really good food 🏆🍽️

• V(G)alentine’s shenanigans 💖

• 20+ things to check out 📆 

• A new format we think you’ll love 👀

Let’s get to it.

Currents & waves

🍽️ Last call for Restaurant Week

This is it, Providence—tomorrow’s your final chance to enjoy Restaurant Week’s special menus, signature cocktails, and killer deals at over 60 spots around the city. If you’ve been waiting for the right excuse to treat yourself, this is it. 

Find (or rediscover) your new favorite restaurant →

🌟 James Beard buzz

No time to catch Restaurant Week? No problem. Seven of the eight Rhode Island semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Foundation Awards hail from Providence–the eighth is just across the river in East Providence. Looking for a new spot (or eight) to add your must-try list? See who made the cut →

🍔 Mark your calendar for Feb 14th

Valentine’s Day isn’t the only thing happening on Friday. Providence Children’s Film Festival, Newport Burger Bender (yes, it 100% involves eating a lot of burgers), and the Newport Winter Festival are all kicking off, giving you plenty of reasons to get out of the house–besides buying overpriced roses.

*Keep reading for more traditional date night ideas all week.

🏰 A really old historic brewhouse is for sale

If you immediately thought of Trinity Brewhouse, you’d be correct. It and all of its turnkey furniture, fixtures, and equipment are up for grabs if you’ve got an extra $2.25 million laying around → 

Here’s your first weekly Providence brief, featuring (at least) 20 things worth checking out around town over the next seven days 👇

Today - February 7th

🖤 Dust off your vans

Tonight’s emo night at Alchemy, and if your teenage soul still lives for screaming along to My Chemical Romance, this is your night. Expect a DJ-fueled dance party blasting all your favorite emo and pop-punk jams. Think Fall Out Boy, Paramore, and a crowd that gets it. Doors at 9, the chaos starts at 10. Don’t forget your eyeliner →

If that’s past your bedtime (it’s 100% past ours), you can catch The Bitter Hearts at Free Play Bar at 5 pm. Whether you’re dropping by for the music, skee-ball bragging rights, or an intense DDR battle, you’ll be home before 9.

Pro-tip for those with littles: Drop by Free Play on Sundays instead.

🏒 Get a free Mighty Ducks-inspired tee

The Providence Bruins are taking on the Springfield Thunderbirds tonight. The first 2,000 fans through the doors snag a free P-Bruins movie-inspired tee. Get there early to snag yours, catch the warmups, and grab yourself a hot pretzel (or three). 

Can’t make it? They’re back on Valentine’s Day facing Utica. Who says romance has to involve candlelight? Hockey fans get it →

🎭 Time warps ahead

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is going down tonight at AS220. The legendary RKO Army (keeping it weird since 1981) will be doing a shadowcast performance and turning our desert night into a tempest of fishnet stockings and flying toast.

If you know, you know. If you don’t, there’s only one way to find out →

Tomorrow - February 8th

🥕 Stock up on local goodies

The Providence Winter Farmers Market is in full swing, bringing you the best of local farms, bakers, and artisans—all under one cozy roof. Located at 10 Sims Ave, it’s the largest indoor market in New England, featuring everything from fresh produce to handmade goods, candy, plants, and more.

Swing by this Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM, grab a coffee, and wander the aisles. Future you will thank you.

✍️ Writer’s block? There’s an app for that

Just kidding. LitArts is kicking off 2025 with a full-day Writers’ Block Party—think micro-workshops, writing sessions, and community support to get the creativity flowing. There will be one-hour craft workshops, a brown bag lunch mixer, and plenty of time to write. Pick and choose the workshops you want to attend or go all in for a discount →

🎶 Pick your fighter

If you’re into high-energy competition and electric guitars, head to Narragansett Brewery from 6 to 10:30 PM for Battle of the Bands. Four acts will compete, but only two will move on to the finals. It’s free to watch, $10 to vote. Bonus: plenty of craft beer on tap →

The RI Songwriters Association Showcase at The Music Mansion is bringing together six incredible artists for a night of heartfelt lyrics and stripped-down melodies. Catch Lily Cataldi, Jan Luby, Roots Run Wild, Michelle Saylors, Josh Schurman, and Rob Siegel starting at 7 PM, all for just $22 →

Got the sound of silence on repeat? Catch the Simon & Garfunkel Story at PPAC for an immersive and authentic tribute at 5 pm →

📚 For tiny ninjas who love story time

Start your morning at Mt. Pleasant Community Library, where K-2 kiddos can enjoy a fun morning with other littles. From 8 to 8:45, your bookworms can practice reading in a relaxed environment. Right after, kids aged 5+ can join in on the volunteer-led martial arts class where they’ll learn how to defend themselves against the dreaded homework monster. No registration needed for either.

Sunday - February 9th

🎯 Games + pizza = best day ever

The February Open Pinball Tournament at Pizza J is going down at 1 PM for players of all skill levels. Target match play (no one gets a 0) keeps things competitive but fun, so whether you’re a casual flipper or a full-blown pinball wizard… there’s a spot for you.

After your pinball victory (or brutal defeat), head over to Family Day at Free Play from 11 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $12 per person, and every game is set to free.

Bring the kids. Or just bring yourself. No judgment here.

🏈 Big game energy

Ladder 133 is kicking off Super Bowl Sunday at 4 PM with a pre-game party that would make Tony Romo jealous. Think DJ-powered tailgating, wing specials that'll make your wallet happy, and enough raffle prizes (including a free TV!) to distract you from the score. Arrive before 6 PM for extra raffle tickets.

Not your jam? Snookers RI is turning into a football cathedral with 60+ TVs, enough tasty nachos to feed a defensive line, giveaways and games, and drink specials that'll help you cope with bad calls.

🐾 Adopt a Valentine for $14

From 10 to 2, Providence Animal Control Center is hosting a Valentine’s adoption special, letting you take home the new love of your life for just $14.

Monday - February 10th

🧠 Flex your random recall 

Start your week with some friendly competition at Wes’ Rib House for Monday Night Trivia at 7. Expect challenging questions, solid prizes, and some of the best BBQ in town. Whether you're a seasoned trivia pro or just in it for the ribs and good vibes, this is a solid excuse to get out on a Monday.

Prefer a later start? Check out Jake & Johnny’s, where trivia runs from 8 to 10. More questions, more prizes, and more chances to prove you’re the smartest person at the bar.

If your brain works better on a different day of the week, Brass Monkey and Mirabar both host trivia on Wednesdays, while G Pub keeps it competitive on Tuesdays.

🎶 Sing your way to $1,000

Think you’ve got the pipes to take home a $1,000 karaoke prize? The Hot Club’s Karaoke Tournament is hosting qualifying rounds every Monday from 10:30 to 11:30 PM, leading up to the semifinals and the grand finale. Runner-up prizes are in play too, so it’s not all or nothing.

Not a singer? No problem. They’ve got Trivia Tuesdays, Name That Tune Wednesdays, and Music Bingo Thursdays to keep you entertained.

Tuesday - February 11th

🎶 Smooth jazz (bring the pup!)

Nick-A-Nee's Winter Tuesday Series is serving up a double shot of jazz with a side of wagging tails. Mary Andrews and her crew start the groove at 6:30 PM, then Cameron Greenlee and friends keep the vibe alive from 10 PM.

Cash bar, zero cover, and your four-legged (canine) jazz enthusiast is welcome to enjoy it with you.

💖 Give your stack of unused gift cards a second shot at life

Turn all of those forgotten holiday gift cards in the bottom of your purse into something good at Fogo de Chão's for a Galentine's Regifting for Rights event. The Women's Fund of Rhode Island will use your donated cards for raffles and giveaways to raise donations through the year. In return, you get appetizers, drinks, and quality time with like-minded locals who believe in making the world a better place →

🤖 Tiny humans + STEAM

Washington Park wants to turn your 6 and up littles into coding masterminds with their free STEAM program featuring Dash robots from 3:30 to 5.

If Mt. Pleasant Library is closer to home, you can catch a separate STEAM program there from 4:30 to 5:30 featuring explorations in science, tech, math, art, and more for kiddos older than 4.

Wednesday - February 12th

🌙 Stargazing in Roger Williams Park

Bundle up for a free night of celestial storytelling with the Museum of Natural History's Moon Walk through Roger Williams Park. You'll discover constellations you never knew existed, uncover fascinating park history, and maybe catch a glimpse of Providence's nocturnal residents doing their thing.

No need to RSVP, but do wear sturdy shoes and weather appropriate layers as you’ll be walking across hilly and uneven terrain.

📷 Meet the man, the myth, the legend

Raise a glass with local legend Izzy Rodriguez at the Providence Art Club as he pulls back the curtain on "This Is Providence." Between sips and stories, you'll get the inside scoop on how he captures those magical moments that make our city uniquely ours. Doors open at 5:30 PM for cocktails and the conversation kicks off at 6. The event is free, but advanced reservations are encouraged →

Thursday - February 13th

🍻 Two ways to stop doom scrolling swiping

Tired of dating apps and lackluster conversation bubbles? Skip the superficial chatter at Long Live Beerworks this Thursday, where Skip the Small Talk turns strangers into confidants through guided conversations. Expect thought-provoking questions and genuine connections without the pressure – plus craft beer and snacks to keep the conversation flowing →

Prefer to play wingman? Troop PVD's Pitch-a-Friend puts your single friends in the spotlight. Sign up to showcase your bestie's best qualities, or just kick back with a cocktail and watch the chemistry unfold.

It’s free, it’s fun, and there’s a single mingle mixer after. Just coming to hang out? All you gotta do is show up. Want to pitch your bestie? Sign up here →

💐 Galentine’s Day is supposed to be extra

Need an excuse to gather the group chat? The Healthy Spot in Pawtucket is serving up "Love in Every Sip" – a hands-on night of mixing custom energy teas and dinner shakes. Plus, everyone leaves with a special gift.

Looking for a crafternoon to remember? Join Liz Likes Flowers at Kimi's Bar for a Galentine's flower workshop that'll have your Instagram feed looking like a professional florist's. Choose between two class times, rock your most festive fit for the photo booth, and walk away with a bouquet that puts grocery store flowers to shame →

🍩 Treat yo’ self to trivia

Dorchester Brewing is transforming into the Parks Department for an epic night of Parks & Rec trivia. Brush up on your Pawnee history and assemble your smartest work proximity associates because there can only be one champion worthy of the highly exclusive 5,000 Candles in the Wind trophy →

Date ideas for V-Day (next Friday)

Feeling fancy? Rogue Island is dishing out heart-shaped ravioli and caviar dreams from Feb. 12-15—there are still a few spots left for Valentine’s Day so don’t wait →

For extra swoon points, The Rooftop's "Love is in the Air" dinner comes with live music, champagne options, and roses to-go – just don't forget to thank us when you look like a planning genius →

If you prefer something more interactive, roll into Long Live BeerWorks for a Sushi Flower Class where you'll craft Instagram-worthy rolls (your first drink is free) →

Another option is Narragansett Brewery, where you can paint custom beer mugs because nothing says "forever" like matching drinkware →

The Love and Laugh R&B Extravaganza serves up a triple threat of live music, comedy, and a "Love Bite" buffet that'll have you falling in love all over again →

For those who love to dance (skills not required), slip into something red for Bomboncito Valentine Milonga at Providence Tango, where traditional tango and chocolate create the perfect pairing.

Gathering your besties instead? Check out the PALentines Wine Tasting at Gilligan’s where you’ll taste eight natural wines with charcuterie pairings available to purchase. It’s from 6 - 10 (show up any time) and costs $20 per person.

Harbor homes

💎 A historic Fox Point gem

This isn't just any early 1800’s home – the Jabez Rounds House is what happens when historic Providence meets contemporary charm. With soaring vaulted ceilings, 200+ year old original hard wood floors ad exposed brick, sun-drenched rooms, and a third-floor mezzanine that's begging to be your new work-from-home sanctuary, it’s THE definition of character in this century.

Its three bedrooms, two full baths, and (plot twist!) a three-car garage make it a unicorn in Fox Point's walkable paradise →

Providence fun & games

This week’s wordle features a 5-letter word hidden inside this edition. Let us know how many guesses it takes you!

—

Trivia question of the week

❓Question: Who coined the term “Galentine’s Day”?

🤔 Hint: "I am big enough to admit that I am often inspired by myself."

Reply and shoot us your best guess (no cheating!) - Same time, same place next week → we’ll share the answer and a fresh question to ponder.

—

Happy exploring and be safe with the upcoming snowstorm. See ya next Friday!

P.S. Know of an event or business we should share, interested in certain types of events & stories, or want to ask a question? Feel free to reply (or email us) any time.