Happy Rhode Island Independence Day! Okay, so maybe it’s not as well known as the good ol’ U.S. Independence Day, but that’s because it’s so darn special. A little backstory: Rhode Island was the first of the original thirteen U.S. colonies to gain independence, declaring itself independent on May 4, 1776, a full two months before any other other colony. Talk about ahead of the game. In honor of this momentous occasion, we’re giving you a few tips on how to celebrate like a true Rhode Island native.
Eat Some Clam Chowda’
This popular dish is a favorite for a reason in this state: it’s uber fresh and delicious in three different ways. Be sure you’re ordering the one you want; there’s clear, red, and white. Most of the country is familiar with the creamy goodness of white chowder, but try it clear: it highlights the flavor of the clams and boasts a little something different.
Come Sail Away, Come Sail Away…
Newport is the sailing capital of the world…the world, people! It boasts beautiful boats, but also beautiful views (the picture above is the Newport Bridge at sunrise). Put on your Sperry’s and pay the town a visit; this town participates in more sailing than Styx. Check out a tour or hop on board and learn how to do it yourself. Hint: if you just want to enjoy the view, check out the Newport Shipyard off Washington Street. At this “secret” spot, you’ll be able to eat your lunch while basking in the glory of million dollar yachts (and maybe even a celebrity or two).
Embrace Your Fashionista Fantasies
Rhode Island is known for RISD, the Rhode Island School of Design, aka, future fashion designers of America, aka, you, buying their clothes and becoming a trendsetter. Stroll through the boutiques in Providence and get your shop on.
Get Loud and Proud
If you find yourself in the middle of the street unsure of how else to show that you are, in fact, a local, yelling, “GO PAWSOX!” will get you a tip of the (baseball) hat. The Pawtucket Red Sox are the minor league baseball team affiliate to the Boston Red Sox, and won the championship back in 2014. If you have a chance to chat with a local, make sure you know about the longest game in history. It’s a real crowd-pleaser when it comes to discussions.
If you find that you love Rhode Island so much that you can’t leave, well, you should probably just move there. Ok? We said it. Now say goodbye to your friends and family and go check out the apartments in Rhode Island. Because you can only pretend to be a local for so long…and besides, it’s time you formed your own opinion of chowda’.
