PROVIDENCE – The brainchild of multiple state- and city-level organizations, Mayor Jorge O. Elorza and First Gentleman Andy Moffit launched A La Rhody, a yearlong celebration of the Ocean State’s culinary industry, on Tuesday.
In a statement, Moffit said: “Rhode Island’s food traditions are a large part of our state’s history and its food expertise will be a large part of our state’s future. … This collective effort showcases just how the culinary community is woven into the fabric of Rhode Island.”
The Providence Public Library; Rhode Island Historical Society; Providence department of art, culture and tourism; Discover Newport; R.I. Commerce Corp. and the Providence Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau were among the organizations to collaborate on the statewide campaign to celebrate Rhode Island’s food-related endeavors.
Morgan Grefe, the first female executive director in the RIHS’ 195-year history, said because it is an “intrinsic part of every day life” creating a year-long program around food was a no-brainer.
“Our current programs offer a sampling of the many ways in which different groups and communities use the language of food to educate and provoke dialogue about topics as diverse as heritage, food insecurity, new technologies and community building,” she said in a statement.
A La Rhody will include the following specialized events:
- On the Table Launch Party (March 1 at 5:30 p.m., Providence Public Library): The fourth exhibition of “On the Table” debuts with an analytic look at changing trends in American foodways and dining culture through the simple task of setting the table.
- Maple sugar Processing (March 4 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Coggeshall Farm Museum): A unique opportunity to learn the intricate process of making maple syrup, coupled with enjoying the final product over delicious hearth-cooked French Toast.
- The Journey of Johnnycakes (March 14 at 6 p.m., Rhode Island Historical Society Aldrich House): Together with Loren Spears, executive director of the Tomaquag Museum, learn about the history of the Rhode Island “Johnny Cake,” originally called a “journey cake” by the state’s indigenous tribes. Participants will hear about the indigenous origins of the “Johnny Cake,” how it has evolved and witness a demonstration (and taste) of how it’s made.
- Quahog Week (with launch party March 20 at Save the Bay, statewide): This week-long event promotes the cultural and economic importance of the local quahog. As part of the festivities, local fishermen, restaurants and other food businesses and partners will highlight Rhode Island’s wild shellfish harvest through special events, menu options and other promotions.
- African American Food, Then and Now (March 21 at 5:30 p.m., RIHS Aldrich House): RIHS and the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society present a program exploring the historic staple food traditions brought over from Africa by enslaved people, and how these food customs have evolved over the ages. Witness the difference between the origins of food as medicine and how it has transformed, in some ways, into something quite different.
- From Seed to the Table: Beginning URI’s Master Gardening On Ramp: This multi-session series takes place from March through October and includes classes at both Providence Public Library and the Community Garden at Roger Williams Park.
- Dishing It Out Little Rhody Style – Empire Club: (April 2 from 2 to 4 p.m.): Rhode Island is rich in culinary enthusiasts and foodies: Join local food writers Jane Sigal, Christine Chitnis, Amy McCoy and Linda Beaulieu as they “dish” about food and writing with moderator Gail Ciampa, food editor at The Providence Journal.
- Community Table at PVDFest (June 2 from 5 to 8 p.m.): All are invited to attend this first-time happening at Providence’s signature event.
- 18th Annual Federal Hill Stroll (June 6 at 4:30 p.m.): Providence’s Federal Hill is known as a dining and culinary mecca. This annual event celebrates that strong culinary tradition, inviting participants to enjoy food tastings and discounts at nearly 30 Federal Hill businesses.
A website, Facebook page, Twitter handle @ALaRhody and Instagram account have been set up for residents and tourists alike to share their reactions to, relationships with and love for Rhode Island culinary creations and history.
The calendar of events is not full up yet and Jack Martin, executive director of Providence Public Library, invited other cultural and community organizations to take part. He said groups can submit events on the A La Rhody website for approval.
A La Rhody, which will also be advertised outside of Rhode Island, focuses on educating the public about Rhode Island’s history through the long-time prominence of food and the culinary industry in Ocean State culture. Sponsors of A La Rhody include CW Providence and Edible Rhody.
