Check out this week’s Mayor’s Newsletter: Mayor’s Weekly Newsletter 8/15/25
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Weekly Recap
Pawtucket Residents:
The City of Pawtucket invites the community to join us on Monday, August 18 at 11:30 am at Festival Pier for a ceremony commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Mackinac steamboat tragedy. On August 18, 1925, the Mackinac’s boiler exploded while returning from Newport, claiming 55 lives and injuring more than 150 passengers, many from Pawtucket.
The ceremony will honor those lost, recognize the survivors and rescuers, and reflect on the tragedy’s lasting impact. Councilor Wildenhain’s family, who lost several loved ones, will share their story, and members of the Gilligan family will present archival records from the disaster and its aftermath.
This Week in Pawtucket:
-
Victory Day Remembrance: Residents gathered at Veterans’ Park with the Pawtucket Veterans Council and Senator Lori Urso to honor service members and reflect on the significance of Victory Day.
- Community Spotlight: This summer, Pawtucket firefighters helped deliver three healthy babies on May 30, July 9, and August 4. A remarkable display of skill, heart, and dedication to the community.
Upcoming Events:
- Pawtucket Arts Festival: Pawtucket Arts & Culture Festival 2025! Mark your calendars for August 29 – September 7 as Pawtucket comes alive with music, art, food, and cultural celebrations! Enjoy events like the Dragon Boat Races, Cape Verdean Festival, Empanada Fest, Fall Fest, and more. Learn more and apply: Click Here
- Lafayette Trail Marker Unveiling: Join us on Saturday, August 23 at 10:00 am at the Pawtucket Veterans’ Memorial Amphitheatre for the unveiling of Rhode Island’s first Lafayette Trail Marker! Held on the exact day Lafayette visited Pawtucket in 1824, this historic event honors his legacy and our city’s rich ties to American history.
- Pawtucket Falls Carnival: You’re Invited to the Pawtucket Falls Carnival! Join us on August 28, 2025, at 12:00 pm at the Pawtucket Falls Healthcare Center for an afternoon of games, rides, food, and fun! Bring the whole family and celebrate the end of summer with your community.
- Hope Artiste Village 2025: From live music and art shows to vintage markets and family events, Hope Artiste Village has something for everyone. Events run July through November, with weekly happenings and special celebrations. Check out the full schedule: hopeartistevillage.com/events
- Summer Performance Series at Daggett Farm & Pawtucket Veterans Memorial Amphitheater:
- Daggett Farm Finale – August 21, Thursday 6:00 pm – 7:30pm
- Pawtucket Veterans Memorial Amphitheater – August 17, Sunday 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
- Summer Mushroom Hunting: Pawtucket Public Library, Campbell Auditorium, Monday, August 18, 6:00 pm
- Mixed Magic Theatre: The 18th Annual Greatness of Gospel Concert – August 22, 6:30 pm
Important Notice:
- Pawtucket Farmers Market: Continuing the Jungle this spring and summer!
- RI Summer Meals: At Pawtucket Library July 30th-August 20th Monday-Friday 12:00-1:00pm
- RIBBA – Skill-Up Program
- Working Man Distillers event schedule
- International Market Vender Call! Looking for Vendors! Market Launch September 27th from 11:00am to 3:00pm, set up at 10:00am. Every Saturday through 2025. Apply now to reserve your spot!
Have a great week!
City of Pawtucket