The Weekly: 8/7/25 Guide to Downtown Providence
In Providence, there’s always something interesting going on! And we understand how challenging it can be to wade through all the happenings and decide what events to attend, where to eat, and what to shop for. That’s why we’re here to share the top things we’re excited about in the coming week in each installment of “The Weekly.” Each week, we’ll rant and rave unabashedly about just a slice of the food, fun, and fantastic items that we’re currently obsessed with in downtown Providence, RI.
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RHODE ISLAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (PLUS A CAFE DISCOUNT)
The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) is in full swing right now. Across the city, films are being screened through Saturday, Aug. 10. Catch everything from animated features to international dramas at venues like The Vets, Hotel Providence, the Providence Public Library, and more.
Want to break up all the watching for some much-needed sustenance? If your screenings take place anywhere in the downtown neighborhood, then you’re in luck: Small Point Cafe on Westminster Street is offering a huge discount.
Simply pop into Small Point and show the cashier your RIIFF lanyard for a 20% discount off your entire order. We recently tried some new items—including the “Melon Matcha” and the “Mericoco”—so we can confidently say there’s some sweet things on the menu.
TAP TAKEOVER AT THE MALTED BARLEY
On some of these toasty summer days, few things taste quite as refreshing as a cold beer. This week on Friday, Aug. 8, find The Malted Barley and their tap takeover guests, Lord Hobo, slinging a slew of refreshing beers at 334 Westminster Street.
Lord Hobo will be popping up from 6-8 pm with free merchandise and sippable samples. Give the Liquid Golf New England IPA, 401 Lager, and Fruit Peddler Fruited Pale Ale a try! The Malted Barley always has a variety of local and international brews on tap, along with piping hot housemade pretzels on the menu.
DURK’S BAR-B-Q HOSTS FIRST GAMING TOURNAMENT
For the first time ever, Durk’s Bar-B-Q is hosting a Super Smash Bros “Tournament of Champions” on Thursday, Aug. 14! Registration starts at 9:30 pm and playing starts at 10 pm, so make sure to arrive early to get all set up. Registration is $25 per person, and includes a beer and one flavorful pulled pork or brisket sandwich.
Curious about what you can win? The first place prize is a $50 gift card to Durk’s, while the runner up will receive a $20 gift card to Durk’s. Additionally, there will be giveaways and other food and drinks available to order. (The pirogies and tomato sliders are excellent for keeping one’s strength up.)
Love this edition of The Weekly? Want to stay in the loop for future events (like the return of Movies on the Block for Summer 2025), gift guides, new business openings, and more in downtown Providence, RI? We’ve got you! Subscribe to our newsletter and/or follow @indowncitypvd on Instagram.