EAST PROVIDENCE — They'll have some of the same elements as their predecessor, but not the main ingredient...no pun intended.

The East Providence Public Libraries have announced the weekly farmers market at Weaver Library is no more, to be replaced by a monthly series of "Summer Block Parties" at the same Grove Avenue location.

The Block Parties will take place on the second to last Thursday of each month from June to September and at 4-7 p.m. each evening. 

The series will boast of a host of family-friendly features, but not include the fresh produce grown by area cultivators.

Assistant Director for the Libraries Pamela Schwieger wrote, "There were many factors that went into making the difficult decision to end the Market, including the rising cost of fruits and vegetables and local farmers who were pursuing different ways to sell their products. We are so thankful that we were able to have nine wonderful seasons under the leadership of Joyce May."

May initiated the Weaver Farmers market back in the summer of 2014. She oversaw the market through the 2021 season before she retired while serving as East Providence's library director in early 2022.

Patrons seeking the location of farmers markets around the state can visit Farm Fresh Rhode Island’s website, https://www.farmfreshri.org/risummer, for an updated schedule.

The Block Parties, as did the markets, will include a host of all-age activities like live musical performances, food trucks, bounce houses, a petting zoo, bubbles, lawn games, mini golf, face painting, community groups, and even a mermaid. As Schwieger noted, "There will be fun for everyone in your family!"

The inaugural Summer Block Party takes place on Thursday, June 22, following a "Wild West" theme. The night features a performance by the "High Tone Jug Ensemble," a local outfit composed of seasoned Jazz, Rock, Country, and Blues musicians.

There will also be line dancing lessons throughout the evening as well as a traveling petting zoo with a mini horse, a mini donkey, dwarf goats, and alpacas provided by Sheffield Way Farm. Children’s activities will include face painting, bubbles, giant blocks and more. D’s BBQ and Smokehouse food truck will be in attendance as well Del’s Lemonade.

Weaver Library is located at 41 Grove Ave. The Summer Block Parties are free and open to all. Contact the library at 401-434-2453 or email the library at weaverlibrary@gmail.com for more information.