Here's a roundup of the best bets in town to keep your family entertained for the weekend of June 16-19.
- J CLASS REGATTA
Where/When: Narragansett Bay from Wednesday, June 15 through Sunday, June 19 at 1 p.m.
Why Go: A rare opportunity to see two of the classic J Class boats race on the Bay on a course set for easy spectator viewing from spots such as Castle Hill and Fort Adams State Park. In addition to the race, don’t miss the race village at the Newport Shipyard where you can get a better look at the boats and learn more about the history of the class.
Pricing: Free - SUMMER SOLSTICE-AN EVENING OF REVELRY
Where/When: Fort Adams State Park on Saturday, June 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Why Go: This fundraiser to benefit the Fort Adams Trust will feature food by McGrath Clambakes, music, dancing, behind the scenes tours of the fort, and silent and live auctions against the historic backdrop overlooking Narragansett Bay.
Pricing: $86 - NEWPORTFILM MINI-FEST
Where/When: Various locations and times from Friday, June 17 to Sunday, June 19.
Why Go: newportFILM kicks off their summer 2011 season with a mini-fest featuring the British comedy Submarine, the culinary documentary A Matter of Taste, and a showcase of the best animated short films from the New York International Children’s Film Festival aimed at children ages 3 to 6. A wine reception will be held for each of the adult films prior to their viewing, and Q & A sessions will follow each showing.
Pricing: Submarine and A Matter of Taste tickets are $12 per adult or $20 with wine reception. Children’s films are $10 per adult and $5 per child under age 12. - NEWPORT SECRET GARDEN TOUR
Where/When: Tour starts at 33 Washington St. from Friday, June 17 through Sunday, June 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Why Go: Follow the map and meander your way through some of Newport’s most coveted gardens in the historic Point section of the city to gain new ideas for your own garden or just to enjoy the beauty that is the result of some hard working hobbyists.
Pricing: $25
- NORMAN BIRD SANCTUARY 5K
Where/When: Norman Bird Sanctuary on Saturday, June 18 at 8:15 a.m.
Why Go: Whether you are an avid runner or just getting started as a young runner, the USATF sanctioned and scenic NBS 5K has a division for everyone to run in with the Frosty Freez Kids Run kicking off first, followed by the adult groupings and even a new barefoot division.
Pricing: $18/adult; Free for children but a $5 donation is suggested.