North Kingstown offers a variety of relaxing and educational opportunities for young and old alike. Wickford Art Association is a 36-year-old association with over 300 members representing all forms of art media. They are the sponsor of the Wickford Art Festival, featuring 250 exhibitors from around the country, held the second weekend in July throughout Wickford village. The association owns their Gallery located at the town beach/senior center complex just south of the village. The gallery has been opened since 1990 and is host to approximately 25 shows per year, as well as numerous classes and community meetings. The gallery is opened to the public, does not charge admission and is wheelchair accessible.

The North Kingstown Arts Council was formed by the Town Council in 1983 to promote performing and visual arts for the benefit of the residents of North Kingstown. The Arts Council has sponsored favorites such as the summer concert series on Wickford harbor, the children’s summer concert series, artist Bill Harley and folksinger Bill Staines. The Council has also sponsored the Tubafests. The performing arts are also promoted by the Arts Council through the sponsorship of the Main Street Theater program, Summer Performing Arts Festival, as well as additional festivals. For additional information or programs available, contact the NK Recreation Department at 294-3331 ext 241.

The Lafayette Band, in existence for over 100 years, is a talented group of local musicians ranging in age from fourteen to eighty plus years! These fifty musicians perform at summer concert series in town as well as First Night Providence, St. John the Divine Chapel in Saunderstown and Church of the Transfiguration in Cranston and the town’s Annual Tree Lighting ceremony at Christmas. They continue to perform under the leadership of Director Joe Pelosi.

The North Kingstown Community Chorus is a non-profit organization formed in 1985. It has grown from 25 members to 115! Known as a show chorus featuring fun music and show tunes, etc. No audition required. Grades 9 through 90 are eligible. Performs two major concerts each year: Spring (1st weekend of May) and Winter (1st weekend of December). For more information call Roberta Belanger, 294-3003.

The North Kingstown Community Youth Chorus (sponsored by above) is open to children grades 2-8 ( younger with permission of the Director). No audition required. Performs as part of the adult performance in May and December and at the lighting of the NK Christmas tree. Approximately 55 members to date. Performs popular songs from Disney movies, patriotic pieces and folk songs, etc. Audio tapes to assist learning for younger singers.

The North Kingstown Library main library facility is located on Boone Street in Wickford village. The recently renovated building houses a collection of over 100,00 items with a qualified staff dedicated to providing educational, cultural and recreational services to users of all ages. The library is tax supported and governed by a seven-member Board of Trustees appointed by the Town Council.

As a member of Cooperating Libraries Automated Network (CLAN), the North Kingstown Free Library ensures that all of its patrons will have access to over 3.5 million items in Rhode Island’s public libraries. You may get a CLAN card by showing proof of residence in any Rhode Island community. Your card may be used at any public library in the state. Collections available include: Young Readers collections, Adult Fiction collection, Large Print collection, Magazines & newspapers, Talking Books, Compact Discs, Videos, Adult Reference Collection, Adult Electronic Reference Services, Adult Non-Fiction Collection and Special collections.

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