Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum

Restorative Yoga is a floor-based, gentle Yoga practice that uses a variety of props to help participants find comfortable, beneficial poses. These poses are beneficial for releasing tension, promoting relaxation, and fostering a sense of healing and renewal. No prior Yoga experience is necessary.
Please dress in layers and bring a Yoga Mat, a water bottle, and a bed pillow. All other Yoga props will be provided.
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Class is limited to 10. Adults only Registration is required

Local Event: Restorative Yoga with Marie Chasen

Bristol County

Bristol-Warren

Rhode Island

Restorative Yoga with Marie Chasen

Restorative Yoga is a floor-based, gentle Yoga practice that uses a variety of props to help participants find comfortable,...

Discover the expressive power of charcoal in this plein air workshop, guided by Connecticut artist Christina Biroscak. You’ll explore bold, gestural mark-making to capture the essence of the landscape’s light, forms, and movement. Explore additive and reductive approaches to charcoal, composition, and atmospheric depth while drawing directly from nature. This class includes short demos and plenty of hands-on sketching amid the Blithewold grounds and gardens. All levels—from adventurous beginners to seasoned artists—are welcome. This class embraces growth!
Please dress for the weather and bring your own supplies: vine and willow charcoal, a kneaded eraser, an 11” x 14” or larger newsprint pad, and binder clips.
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Adults only. Registration is required and limited to 10.

Local Event: Gestural Landscape:  Charcoal Sketching in the Garden 

Gestural Landscape:  Charcoal Sketching in the...

Discover the expressive power of charcoal in this plein air workshop, guided by Connecticut artist Christina Biroscak. You’ll...

Gestural Landscape:  Charcoal Sketching in the Garden 

Practice the basic design and pruning skills to start your lifelong bonsai journey. In this introductory class, we discuss the care and maintenance of the trees. Learn everything you need to keep your tropical bonsai healthy throughout the winter and beyond, including proper watering, lighting, repotting, and fertilizing.
Peter Olson is the head bonsai professional at New England Bonsai Gardens and studied under a genuine Japanese bonsai master. He is an instructor in the prestigious Kaikou School of Bonsai and has been practicing bonsai for 12 years.
This is the first in a series of four workshops leading to a certificate of completion in bonsai techniques. Materials are included.
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Registration is required and limited to 12. Adults only.

Local Event: Bonsai Essentials 1:  Beginners Workshop with Peter Olson

Bonsai Essentials 1:  Beginners Workshop with...

Practice the basic design and pruning skills to start your lifelong bonsai journey. In this introductory class, we discuss the...

Bonsai Essentials 1:  Beginners Workshop with Peter Olson

Experience the peace of Blithewold as the birds do! Environmental Educator Connie Ganley will guide you through our natural spaces to take in and connect with the early morning sights, sounds, and scents during this leisurely stroll. Research has shown that time spent in nature has healing and therapeutic health benefits. Unwind, recharge, and experience the benefits of “nature therapy” all day!
Please bring a water bottle and wear sturdy walking shoes. This program will take place rain or shine so please dress appropriately. 
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Preregistration is required. Each class is limited to 15 people. This is not appropriate for children under 12.

Local Event: Early Bird Sensory Walks

Early Bird Sensory Walks

Experience the peace of Blithewold as the birds do! Environmental Educator Connie Ganley will guide you through our natural...

Come and walk the gardens during the peak of spring blooms on our ornamental shrubs. We will visit and discuss many plants of interest at this time of year. Depending on the spring weather, we will visit some interesting rhododendrons and azaleas, along with lilac, Viburnum, glossy abelia, enkianthus, and fothergilla, among others. We will take an intimate look at the flowers and discuss some care and needs for each plant.
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Registration is required and limited to 15.

Local Event: Tour and Discussion of Spring Flowering Shrubs

Tour and Discussion of Spring Flowering Shrubs

Come and walk the gardens during the peak of spring blooms on our ornamental shrubs. We will visit and discuss many plants of...

Join us on the last Tuesday of each month, from March through May, for fun (and educational) hands-on learning at Blithewold! This year we will offer programs in science, history, and art. Each month, we explore intriguing topics in the arts, history, horticulture, environmental science, and climate change.
Indoor and outdoor learning experiences complete our curriculum, which aligns with RI, MA, and CT state standards. Between sessions, there is plenty of time to enjoy a nice picnic or run out some energy on the Great Lawn. Check our website for more information on our monthly themes and activities.
This is a drop-off program designed for Ages 8 – 13. An adult chaperone is required to remain on the Property for security.
Students are to check in at the Visitor Center, and one adult chaperone must remain on the property until pickup. Please bring a lunch, a refillable water bottle, and dress for the weather, as we often take our lessons outside! Lunch will be enjoyed from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Adult chaperones and younger siblings are welcome to picnic on the Grounds with the students.
Topic: 

May 26 – Letterboxing workshop

Local Event: Blithewold Homeschool Days

Blithewold Homeschool Days

Join us on the last Tuesday of each month, from March through May, for fun (and educational) hands-on learning at Blithewold!...

Join us for a deep dive into wine. In each class, we will taste five different wines from a variety of regions, compare and contrast them, and learn a little about grape varietals and winemaking practices, with a focus on wines that offer good value for your money. Discover a favorite new grape varietal or taste wines from a region you’ve never tried. We’ll be drinking wine and having a good time!

June 4: White Wines Learn about aromatic and non-aromatic grape varietals and how they impact winemaking and taste.
July 9: Summer Red Wines Learn some of the winemaking methods that impact the body of the wine. Find your favorite summer-friendly red wines to enjoy long after the class ends.
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Limited to 12 Participants. Pre-registration is required.

Local Event: Wine Tasting and Talk on the Porch with Lynda Gaines

Wine Tasting and Talk on the Porch with Lynda...

Join us for a deep dive into wine. In each class, we will taste five different wines from a variety of regions, compare and...

Wine Tasting and Talk on the Porch with Lynda Gaines

Do you want to explore your creative side? Do you want to experiment with colors without fear of making a mistake? Join Lidia in this easy, magical, and relaxing adventure into the world of freedom and creativity, after which you will take home a masterpiece created by your own hands. We aren’t going to learn how to paint or try complex techniques, but to observe how the paint lives and reacts on the fabric, directing it wherever our imagination wants the paint to go. During this master class, you will tap into your creativity and “grow” your unique flower.
This workshop will be held outdoors for further inspiration and ease of clean-up! All materials are provided.
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Ages 10 to adult. Class is limited to 15.

Local Event: Magic Colors and Flowers:  Silk Painting Workshop

Magic Colors and Flowers:  Silk Painting Workshop

Do you want to explore your creative side? Do you want to experiment with colors without fear of making a mistake? Join Lidia...

Ever wonder what that odd-leaved plant is, or that late-blooming tree or shrub? Want to get the inside scoop on rare plants? Join Director of Horticulture Dan Christina on a guided tour of the grounds to learn about some of the more unique specimens collected throughout the landscape’s history. Discover the best fit for your own home garden and bewilder your guests with your horticultural prowess!
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Tour is limited to 20 attendees.&nbsp;Registration is required.

Local Event: Uncommon Trees and Shrubs of Blithewold

Uncommon Trees and Shrubs of Blithewold

Ever wonder what that odd-leaved plant is, or that late-blooming tree or shrub? Want to get the inside scoop on rare plants?...

Join Becca Christ, vegetable garden manager, to learn about the planning process for the historic 4,000-square-foot vegetable garden. Becca will share helpful tips, troubleshoot challenges, and offer creative resources to start growing fresh vegetables at home.
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Class limited to 20. Registration is required.

Local Event: Behind the Scenes Tour: Vegetable Garden with Becca Christ

Behind the Scenes Tour: Vegetable Garden with...

Join Becca Christ, vegetable garden manager, to learn about the planning process for the historic 4,000-square-foot vegetable...

Behind the Scenes Tour: Vegetable Garden with Becca Christ

Let the fireworks begin under Blithewold Mansion’s event tent as Encore Opera presents a program celebrating America’s 250th anniversary with classic American opera arias and ensembles, musical theatre favorites, and a patriotic salute to the armed forces. The concert features Boston soprano Kate Wood, Bristol tenor Michael DiMucci, Encore Opera’s superb baritone René de la Garza, and the fabulous 1776 Band. Take in the gorgeous sunset over Narragansett Bay while celebrating this patriotic occasion.
A cash bar will be available. No outside liquor allowed; coolers will be checked.

Local Event: RAH RAH America 250 Concert with Encore Opera

RAH RAH America 250 Concert with Encore Opera

Let the fireworks begin under Blithewold Mansion’s event tent as Encore Opera presents a program celebrating America’s 250th...

Step back into America’s golden era with acclaimed author Jana Milbocker as she presents her newest book, Gardens of the Gilded Age. In this richly illustrated talk, Jana explores the stories of these breathtaking estates and legendary landscapes created for families such as the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, du Ponts, and our very own Van Wickles and McKees, alongside the visionary architects and designers who brought their grandeur to life. Blithewold is one of the thirty gorgeous Gilded Age estates profiled in the book.
Immediately following the talk, you’ll have a chance to meet the author for a book signing before heading to the Dining Room for your Afternoon Tea. Remember to bring your copy of Gardens of the Gilded Age, or purchase one in the Gift Shop upon your arrival.

Local Event: Gardens of the Gilded Age Tea and Talk

Gardens of the Gilded Age Tea and Talk

Step back into America’s golden era with acclaimed author Jana Milbocker as she presents her newest book, Gardens of the Gilded...

Join Betsy Ekholm, gardens and greenhouse manager, for a behind-the-scenes look at the diverse plant collections in the Rose Garden and Sunken Garden. Learn about plant selection and color choices, as well as how to help your garden look its best all season. This is your chance to ask all the questions you’ve always wanted to know about the gardens!
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Tour limited to 20. Registration is required.

Local Event: Behind the Scenes Tour:  Rose Garden and Sunken Garden

Behind the Scenes Tour:  Rose Garden and Sunken...

Join Betsy Ekholm, gardens and greenhouse manager, for a behind-the-scenes look at the diverse plant collections in the Rose...

Behind the Scenes Tour:  Rose Garden and Sunken Garden

Enjoy an evening of Latin dancing with professional ballroom dancer Katie Arbulu. Learn the basics of salsa and bachata and how to take what you have learned to the social dance floor. Katie has 20 years of experience in dance and teaching and is excited to bring the joy of dance to the Blithewold community. Come on your own, bring a partner, or have fun with friends. No dance experience necessary.
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Registration is required and limited to 10.

Local Event: Salsa Dancing with Katie Arbulu

Salsa Dancing with Katie Arbulu

Enjoy an evening of Latin dancing with professional ballroom dancer Katie Arbulu. Learn the basics of salsa and bachata and how...

Rita Parisi of <a href="https://www.waterfallproductions.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Waterfall Productions</a> invites you to step back in time and discover the untold stories of five courageous women, both patriots and loyalists, American and foreign-born, who witnessed, chronicled, and in some cases changed the course of the American Revolution.
Get into the spirit of ‘76 with light fare from the Colonial era in Blithewold’s elegant Dining Room, then join Rita in the bright and sunny Living Room for her presentation, followed by a Q&amp;A session.

Local Event: Women of ’76: A Theatrical Tribute to Lesser-Known Women of the American Revolution

Women of ’76: A Theatrical Tribute to...

Rita Parisi of Waterfall Productions invites you to step back in time and discover the untold stories of five courageous women,...

Women of ’76: A Theatrical Tribute to Lesser-Known Women of the American Revolution

Step into the quiet beauty of the outdoors with this contemplative plein air sketching experience rooted in mindfulness. Emphasis will be placed on mindful observation — slowing down, noticing relationships, and responding thoughtfully to what is seen — fostering a sense of calm, connection, and presence. You’ll leave with sketches that reflect not only the landscape itself, but also process, attention, and a renewed awareness of your place within the natural world.
Open to all experience levels. Please bring your preferred drawing supplies and a sketchbook.
Christina Biroscak is the owner of Barnbury Studios and an accomplished artist, designer, and instructor.
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Registration is required and limited to 10.

Local Event: Grounded in Nature:  A Mindful Plein Air Sketching Workshop

Grounded in Nature:  A Mindful Plein Air...

Step into the quiet beauty of the outdoors with this contemplative plein air sketching experience rooted in mindfulness....

Grounded in Nature:  A Mindful Plein Air Sketching Workshop

Tree Callanan

Providence Metropolitan Area

Barrington

Newport County

Portsmouth

Seekonk-Swansea

Massachusetts

Providence County

East Providence

Kent County

Warwick

Tiverton-Little Compton

Providence

Cranston

Middletown

West Warwick

Common Fence Point Arts & Community Center

Experience a restorative sound meditation with gongs to soothe the mind and body. This unique event is held for a $30 admission fee and offers a tranquil environment for deep relaxation and community connection.<h3>Recharge for the Week Ahead: Gong &amp; Sound Meditation –&nbsp;Sunday, May 17</h3>
Portsmouth, RI&nbsp;— Take time to reset your mind and body before the work week begins.
On&nbsp;Sunday, May 17 at 6 PM, the&nbsp;Sounding Spirit Gong &amp; Sound Meditation Series&nbsp;returns to&nbsp;Common Fence Point Arts &amp; Community Center&nbsp;for a deeply immersive sound experience designed to reduce stress and restore balance.
This isn’t traditional meditation—no experience required.
Simply
 lie back on a mat or sit comfortably as you’re surrounded by the 
resonant tones of gongs, singing bowls, drums, and bells. The layered 
soundscape guides you into a calm, restorative state—ideal for those who
 struggle with conventional meditation.
<h3>Why Attend?</h3>
<ul><li>Reduce stress and mental fatigue</li><li>Improve overall sense of well-being</li><li>Reset your nervous system before the work week</li><li>Experience deep relaxation—effortlessly</li></ul>
Think of it as an investment in your well-being:&nbsp;an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
<h3>Easy &amp; Accessible</h3>
<ul><li>Abundant free parking</li><li>Convenient location with easy highway access</li><li>No experience needed—just show up and relax</li></ul>
<h3>Your Guides</h3>
Drumsinger A. Michelle, Russell Kramer, and Piper Padillia create a dynamic, spontaneous sound journey—each session is unique.
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<h3>Event Details</h3>
Date:&nbsp;Sunday, May 17 Time:&nbsp;6:00 - 7:30pm Location:&nbsp;Common Fence Point Arts &amp; Community Center, Portsmouth, RI Cost:&nbsp;$30 (cash, check, Venmo, or PayPal)
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<h3>Reserve Your Spot*</h3>
Text&nbsp;401-954-4674&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="https://null" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">drumsinger@gmail.com</a> Subject:&nbsp;May 17&nbsp;Gong Bath
*Walk-ins are always welcome.&nbsp;

Local Event: Magic Gong Sunday

Magic Gong Sunday

Experience a restorative sound meditation with gongs to soothe the mind and body. This unique event is held for a $30 admission...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Posting Activity

Restorative Yoga with Marie Chasen

MAY

14

5:00 PM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Gestural Landscape: Charcoal Sketching in the Garden

MAY

16

10:00 AM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Bonsai Essentials 1: Beginners Workshop with Peter Olson

MAY

17

10:00 AM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Early Bird Sensory Walks

MAY

19

6:30 AM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Restorative Yoga with Marie Chasen

MAY

21

5:00 PM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Tour and Discussion of Spring Flowering Shrubs

MAY

23

10:00 AM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Blithewold Homeschool Days

MAY

26

10:00 AM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Restorative Yoga with Marie Chasen

MAY

28

5:00 PM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Early Bird Sensory Walks

JUN

2

6:30 AM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Wine Tasting and Talk on the Porch with Lynda Gaines

JUN

4

6:00 PM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Magic Colors and Flowers: Silk Painting Workshop

JUN

6

10:00 AM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Uncommon Trees and Shrubs of Blithewold

JUN

9

11:00 AM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Behind the Scenes Tour: Vegetable Garden with Becca Christ

JUN

10

1:00 PM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

RAH RAH America 250 Concert with Encore Opera

JUN

11

6:00 PM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Early Bird Sensory Walks

JUN

16

6:30 AM

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI

Gardens of the Gilded Age Tea and Talk