As you may know, South Kingstown was incorporated in 1723, making 2023 its 300th birthday. This milestone means there will be various events taking place in the town throughout the year, some of which could coincide with your South County vacation.
These happenings allow you to experience South Kingstown as it is now while learning about its past. The town was an integral site during the country’s early years and played a vital role in King Philip’s War, the American Revolution, and the Civil War, so there’s plenty of history.
Booking a vacation rental in South Kingstown gives you a chance to experience its birthday events in the coming months. Here’s a look at some of the 300th-anniversary happenings coming to South Kingstown in 2023.
K-12 Art Exhibit
The first large-scale event you might encounter in South Kingstown is its K-12 Art Exhibit. This exhibition takes place at the McGrath Judicial Complex as part of the Art in the Courthouse series and will feature works by students of private and public schools throughout the town.
The artwork on display shows what South Kingstown’s future generations are up to and is worth checking out while you’re in the region. The K-12 Art Exhibit runs from early March through May 5, and doors are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM.
300th Anniversary Parade
Perhaps the most highly-anticipated 300th-anniversary event is the parade. The official South Kingstown 300th Anniversary Parade will happen on Saturday, June 17, between 10:00 and 12:30 PM on a 1.3-mile route through downtown Wakefield.
The parade will feature various floats, marching bands, and performers, many of which will depict characters and scenes from South Kingstown’s past. This event will also feature a post-parade picnic at Saugatucket Park, with live music, food trucks, and games. The picnic runs from 1:00-4:00 PM.
South Kingstown Speaker Series
The South Kingstown Speaker Series is worth your time if you love American history. At least once a month throughout 2023, a special guest speaker will appear at the South Kingstown High School Auditorium and give a talk on a local history topic.
Subjects these speakers will cover include the history of the Narragansett Pier Railroad, the 1938 hurricane, author Oliver Hazard Perry, and the bronze statue outside the Peace Dale Library. Those interested in learning about South Kingstown’s history are encouraged to attend one of these talks.
4th of July Fireworks
Locals always look forward to the 4th of July Fireworks Celebration at Old Mountain Field because it acts as the unofficial kick-off to the summer. This year’s event will be bigger than ever, featuring live music, a raffle, food trucks, and a craft market.
The event starts at 5:00 and runs until 9:30, giving you plenty of time to check it out. Keep in mind that some streets will be blocked off in anticipation of significant pedestrian traffic, so booking a vacation rental close to the action might be your best bet.
A Tribute to Civil War General Isaac P. Rodman
Isaac P. Rodman was born in South Kingstown in 1822 and remains one of the town’s most famous residents. Rodman was a well-known businessman and banker in the region, also acting as the president of South Kingstown’s town council and a representative in the Rhode Island Senate.
During the Civil War, Rodman created the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry Regiment, which experienced heavy losses during the First Battle of Bull Run. He later became colonel of the 4th Rhode Island Infantry Regiment.
Rodman contracted typhoid fever after a battle in April 1862 but returned to action only a few weeks later against his doctor’s advice. He was then mortally wounded in the Battle of Antietam in September 1862, dying on September 30.
An overview of Rodman’s life and accomplishments will occur on August 19, 2023, at 10:00 AM in front of Riverside Cemetery’s Soldiers & Sailors Monument. This ceremony is a great way to learn about Rodman and why he is still so revered to this day.
Experience South County’s 300th Anniversary
The birthday festivities you’ll encounter around South Kingstown in 2023 will be a bonus during your time in the community because they give you the chance to experience some history and culture. Of course, the town still has its beautiful beaches, first-class dining, and excellent hiking areas to look forward to, as well, creating an ideal vacation destination.
Keep an eye on South Kingstown’s official website for more information on the events and celebrations coming throughout the year.