5 Weekend Musts: Amica Ironman & More

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Friday, July 08, 2011

GoLocalProv Features Team, with research by John Costello

It's a full-tilt Rhode Island summer weekend, with big festivals, athletic events, and activities in the great outdoors. What's a busy Ocean Stater to do? Use our 5 must-do's as your to-do.

Worship the strong at the Amica Ironman
Sunday Witness more than 1,300 hard-core athletes ranging in age 18-74 run, swim, and bike a total of 70.3 miles at the Amica Ironman. Combine that intensity with some of Providence's best scenery and you've got some great spectating. And it all ends at the Rhode Island State House Lawn. Perfect. The swim at Lincoln Woods kicks off at 6am.

Roll around in the Blackstone Valley
Saturday Get a dose of history with a great bunch of exercise with this three-hour, leisurely bike tour that includes riverways, King Philip's War Battle site, and the oldest brick mill in America. Good for all fitness levels. Call 724- 2200, or visit the Cycle Blackstone Web site for more information. $20 per person, reservation recommended.

Shop for art in Wickford
Saturday-Sunday With more than 250 artists setting up shop in one of Rhode Island's loveliest villages, the 49th Annual Wickford Art Festival is an event you can’t pass up. As the oldest open-air art show in the nation, the festival displays a range of beautiful paintings, photos and sculptures. Begins at 10am. Route 1A. Call 294-6840, or visit the Wickford Art Association Web site for more information.

Get high at the Newport Kite Festival
Saturday-Sunday One step out of the car and you'll be surrounded by bright colors and the flapping of kites at one of the summer's best festivals. Bring your blanket and picnic gear and revel in the cool breezes off Brenton Point State Park. Free admission. Call 244-5264, email [email protected], or visit the Newport Kite Festival Web site for more information.

Culture up in Newport
Friday-Sunday This weekend kicks off the 43rd season of the Newport Music Festival, presenting an array of chamber music performances. Featured musicians include world-renowned artists representing 17 countries as well as upcoming American talents. These concerts and gala special events will take place throughout the month in the famous Newport cottages. Call 846-1133, email [email protected], or visit the Newport Music Festival Web site for more information.