By Jenna Kaplan
If your group chat has been circling the same message for weeks like “we should plan something soon,” consider this your official nudge. The Providence Culinary Collective and Wine X are bringing a lively mix of tastings, brunches, music, and culinary experiences to downtown Providence, turning a simple catch up with friends into a full weekend outing. Whether your crew prefers sipping wine, learning to shuck oysters, dancing through brunch, or lingering over champagne, these events invite guests to explore the city’s food scene one delicious stop at a time.
From the first pour to the final toast, here are 10 experiences worth building your weekend around. For tickets, schedules, and full event details, visit goprovidence.com
- Wine X Presents: A Tour Through South Africa With Sommelier Matt Gant
Wine lovers can kick off the weekend on March 26 from 4:30-6pm at Track 15 with a guided tasting through South Africa’s celebrated Cape Winelands. Sommelier Matt Gant leads guests through elegant Chenin Blanc, coastal whites, and structured reds while sharing stories about the region’s rich history and modern renaissance. It’s a chance to explore one of the world’s most exciting wine regions without ever leaving Providence.
- Oyster Demo With Wine Pairings at CHOP
Later that evening on March 26 from 5:30-8:30pm at CHOP, guests can dive into the world of oysters during a lively demonstration paired with thoughtfully selected wines. Watch the art of oyster shucking up close, taste fresh shellfish, and learn which wines bring out the best in those briny bites.
- Giardino by Sarto
On March 27 starting at 8pm at Sarto, the restaurant transforms into a late-night Italian wine garden inspired by the terraces of Torino. Guests sip Barolo, Barbaresco, Gavi, and Vermouth di Torino while enjoying grissini, antipasti, and pasta selections from Chef Phil Dushkewich. Live jazz from the Matt Kowalski Trio sets a relaxed, late-night mood.
- RI Wine Experience Grand Tasting Event
The centerpiece of the weekend arrives on March 28 from 12-4pm at The Capital Grille, with a VIP hour beginning at 10:30am. More than 45 wine producers pour selections from around the world while guests mingle with winemakers, sample curated bites, and attend panel discussions exploring the evolving world of wine.
- Lingua Franca Exclusive Shopping Experience
Fashion meets cocktails on March 28 at Bellini Providence, where an exclusive shopping experience runs from 3:00–6:00pm, followed by a tasting from 6:00–8:00pm. Guests can browse Lingua Franca’s hand-embroidered knitwear at a custom sweater bar before settling in with a cocktail. Each thoughtfully crafted piece celebrates individuality and storytelling through design.
- Bellini Providence Champagne Brunch
Sunday begins elegantly on March 29 from 10:30am-3pm at Bellini Providence, where a three-course brunch opens with a chilled glass of Veuve Clicquot. Guests can linger over elevated classics like smoked salmon, avocado toast, and eggs Benedict with lobster or steak before finishing with a sweet course.
- Food Truck Drag Brunch Block Party
The fun continues on March 29 from 11:30am-3:30pm at The Alley Cat Providence, where food trucks, brunch cocktails, and live music create a festive block-party atmosphere. Drag performances at 1pm and 3pm add sparkle and high-energy entertainment to the afternoon.
- Island Coquito Brunch Party
Just a few blocks away on March 29 from 12-4pm at Sport and Leisure, brunch turns into a dance party. Guests can enjoy a brunch dish, sip a signature coquito cocktail, and hit the dance floor as DJs Wattz Beatz and Sega Genn spin Latin hits throughout the afternoon.
- California Wine Tasting Experience With Matt Gant x Wine X
Wine enthusiasts can continue exploring on March 29 at 1:30pm at The Capital Grille, where Matt Gant guides guests through lesser-known California vineyards and boutique producers. Expect small-production wines, behind-the-label stories, and plenty of discovery along the way.
- Hope & Main’s Foodcraft: An Evening of Global Flavors, Locally Made
Rounding out the celebration is Foodcraft, a lively marketplace hosted by Hope & Main where guests can sample small bites from local makers, shop specialty foods, enjoy live music, and connect with Rhode Island’s creative food community. It’s a fitting finale that brings together the flavors and talent that make the Ocean State’s culinary scene so vibrant.
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