"Who Let the Dogs Out?"

6 big Columbus Weekend events in R.I., from Westerly to Woonsocket
Parades and festivals, from Autumnfest to jack-o-lanterns at the Zoo.


By Channing Gray

Journal Arts Writer Posted Oct. 8, 2015 @ 12:01 am

You don't have to be Italian to celebrate Columbus Day. Rhode Islanders of all stripes will be saluting the founder of America with parades, food, fireworks and fun times this weekend.

Events are scheduled across the state, from Westerly to Woonsocket, where the annual Autumnfest runs from Saturday through Monday, culminating with a parade that kicks off Monday at 9:30 a.m. But there will also be fireworks Saturday at 9 p.m., and an appearance Saturday at 7 p.m. by the Baha Men, a Bahamian band best known for their 2000 hit "Who Let the Dogs Out?"

Kids have their own space with its own stage that will host magicians, clowns, a reptile show and karate. Nearby, there's a rock climbing wall. Grown-ups can stop by the beer garden, or visit the food court, where they'll find French-Canadian meat pies, baklava and clam chowder.

Autumnfest, which is expected to attract 100,000 people over the three-day weekend, also offers a midway with rides and arts and crafts booths where you can by everything from painted pumpkins to jewelry.

For more information: autumnfest.org

A similar festival takes place on Providence's Federal Hill, where much of Atwells Avenue is closed off for vendors and restaurateurs serving dishes along the sidewalk. There was a time when the fare was largely Italian, things like sausage and peppers. But now that The Hill has become more diverse you can sample Asian dishes and more.

Just like Woonsocket, Federal Hill throws a three-day bash, with rides for kids, music, and the high point of the weekend — the annual parade that gets under way Sunday at 11 a.m. and winds up Atwells Avenue under the pine cone arch.

For more information: federalhillprov.com