There’s now one more reason to spend time in Downcity Providence this summer. The Downcity Sound Stage, InDowncity’s new outdoor summer music series is a FREE live music performances outdoors at Grant’s Block (at the corner of Union and Westminster St.). The series is a celebration honoring summer in Providence. Six local bands have been invited to play on the new stage, there series kicked off on August 3rd and goes through September 7th. Show starts at 6pm and are free and open to the public.

Along with Movies on the Block and Lunch Truck Tuesdays, the Downcity Sound Stage adds to an active summer at Grant’s Block. Cornish Associates and InDowncity are excited to provide a new, free venue where local musicians can reach a large public audience. The line-up is filled with diverse locals bands, each band bringing their own unique sound to the series, and capturing the creative spirit of the city. Tazza Cafe will be there providing food and beverages with their outdoor bar and grill. The Downcity Sound Stage offers another way to enjoy spending time in the center of the city on a summer afternoon.

The Downcity Sound Stage is sponsored by The Providence Foundation, Providence Downtown Improvement District, Cornish Associates, Downcity Parking, DarrowEverett, Troy Pires and Allen and The Providence Arts Center.

Providence’s premier art festival is in its fourth year! Head down to Westminster Street for the Providence Art Festival Saturday, June 2nd. Over 100 local artists and vendors will be selling handmade jewelry, baby clothes, pottery, art photography, stationery, and more.

RIMOSA will be providing free craft activities for kids throughout the day. The Rhode Island Kung Fu Club will perform their Kung Fu and the lion dance. Listen to live music, check out the Tazza Beer Garden and of course . . . the food trucks. You will want to spend the entire day on Westminster Street.

The Silks will perform two sets. Enter drawings to win Pawsox tickets, or maybe tickets to see Deer Tick.

10am to 6pm, Saturday, June 2, Westminster Street (between Dorrance and Mathewson Streets)

(5.5) In Downcity Providence, Westminster Lofts, the Providence Rock ‘n’ Roll Yard Sale, and Downcity merchants are partnering in celebration of springtime in Providence. Another season of outdoor events kicks off with our 2nd annual Cinco de Mayo Block Party. Westminster Street will be closed to cars, and filled with performers, activities, crafts for kids, Mexican food and beverages. Taco truck, Mariachi, piñatas!

Free, 4pm to 8pm, Saturday, May 5, Westminster Street between Union and Eddy Streets, (directions)