Weekend Best Bets

RI PrideFest
In the wake of the tragic Orlando shooting, the LGBT community and the country as a whole are grieving as we try to deal with the shock, hurt and heartbreak that comes after an event like this. However, in these awful moments it is important to remember that love will always be stronger than hate, and that there is still goodness and joy in the world. Come support and celebrate the LGBT community at RI PrideFest, where everyone is accepted. Saturday. South Water Street, Providence. More info… 

The Low Anthem Release Show at the Columbus Theatre
Searching for some tunes to fill out your Saturday night? Check out a “historic” show at the Columbus Theatre, where The Low Anthem, an indie folk band bred here in Providence, will release their new album titled Eyeland.”The album was recorded and mixed at the Columbus Theatre, which makes the show even more special. This performance will also serve as the kick-off for The Low Anthem’s new tour, so it’s definitely a night you don’t want to miss. Saturday. $10. 270 Broadway, Providence. More info… 

America on Tap Craft Beer Festival
Beer lovers, your time has come: America on Tap is bringing their craft beer festival to Roger Williams Park. You’ll be able to sample more than 150 craft beers for three hours, complimented by live music and vendors. Of course, there will also be delicious food to buy so you don’t fall over after trying so many different drinks. True craft beer lovers can even purchase the VIP ticket. Saturday. Standard: $35, VIP: $55. 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. More info… 

Comedic Leanings at Jimmy's Saloon
What weekend is complete without some side-splitting laughs? Check out Comedic Leanings at Jimmy’s Saloon for a stand up comedic “freakshow” that is sure to have you rolling. The night will include performances from Mike Holmes, James Creelman, Darik Santos and RA Bartlett. Bring some friends, enjoy some drinks and get ready to laugh until you cry. Friday. $5. 37 Memorial Boulevard, Newport. More info… 

Allysen Callery CD Release at Sandywoods Center for the Arts
Come out to see the “Tim Burton of Folk Music,” Allysen Callery, as she releases her new album, The Song the Songbird Sings. Callery’s lilting voice and dark style has become well-known in the way it harkens to 60s and 70s British folk music. Also present will be Providence’s own gothic folk band, Vudu Sister. The best part? Everyone who attends the performance will receive a free copy of Callery’s new record. Saturday. $12. 43 Muse Way, Tiverton. More info… 

Lippitt Labs: Interior Design
Get a blast from the past this weekend at the Lippitt House. You’ll invent new floor patterns, examine stained glass designs, and experiment with Victorian wall painting techniques such as faux-marble and faux-wood. Bring the whole family and play with stencils as you learn about old fashioned design techniques. Saturday. $5-10. kids under 12 get in free. 199 Hope Street, Providence. More info… 

Smith’s Castle Strawberry Festival
Strawberries are always perfect in the summer-time, and apparently they were a favorite of our colonial ancestors. Keep the strawberry tradition alive this Saturday at the Smith’s Castle Strawberry Festival, where you can even sample some of their delicious strawberry shortcake. What better way to assuage that summer sweet-tooth? Saturday. $4-8, children under 6 get in free. 55 Richard Smith Drive, North Kingstown. More info… 

15th Annual Block Island Music Festival
Get your music fix at the Block Island Music Festival, a “musical gumbo” packed with some of the most new and talented performers in the northeast. The festival will take place at Captain Nick’s Rock n’ Roll Bar and will feature all sorts of styles, making it perfect for any music lover. There will also be a free food pit, so you can munch on some BBQ and sip some frozen drinks as you enjoy the tunes. All weekend. Free. 34 Ocean Avenue, Block Island. More info… 

If/Then at PPAC
Check out one of Broadway’s newest musicals at PPAC this weekend with If/Then, a musical about the choices we make throughout our lives. Brought to us by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey, the duo behind the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical Next to Normal, If/Then tells its story using a split narrative, a rare approach to plot. With strong, belting ballads and an introspective story, it’s one performance that you don’t want to miss. All weekend. $46-83. 220 Weybosset Street, Providence. More info… 

35th Annual Great Chowder Cook-Off
The words “chowdah” and “Rhode Island” are practically synonymous, which means that the legendary Great Chowder Cook-Off is the place to be this weekend. Sample chowders created by competitors from all over, including Little Rhody and Ireland. With live entertainment and plenty of activities for the kids, this is the perfect event for the whole family. Just be prepared for the food coma that will hit you once you get home. Saturday. $20-25. 84 Fort Adams Drive, Newport. More info…