Misquamicut Fest from Ryan Jacobson on Vimeo.

The parking lots have finally been cleared of the remains of one of the most horrific winters in recent memory. Winter is finally over, and summer is rapidly approaching. Nothing says summer is right around the corner more than the Misquamicut Spring Fest, held at Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly, RI.

This is not like any other “summer kick off” festival around the country. This festival is located on the beautiful shore of the “Ocean State”; one of the most popular summer destinations in New England.

You can smell the salty ocean, and hear the pounding of the waves as you line up for your favorite rides and refreshments. Even though it is not yet warm enough to lay on the beach or go into the ocean, you still can get the feeling of summer, because your senses are familiarizing themselves with the sounds and smells of summers past.

“This festival is the unofficial kick off to summer, so, for a town that is known for their beaches and summer entertainment, this is the most exciting time of the year”, s

From the rides, and games, to the shopping tents and live entertainment, the Misquamicut Spring Festival has something for everyone. Couples on dates were competing in a rock-climbing race against each other. Newlyweds were enjoying a fine glass of wine, while tasting the local chowder. Couples with children were enjoying their day with rides and carnival games. And elderly couples, among many others, were relaxing and listening to the live music from local great, Jason Cardinal.

There truly is something for everyone at the Misquamicut Fests. However, do not worry if you could not attend this weekend’s festivities. This weekend marks the unofficial opening of Misquamicut Beach, so many of the opportunities at the fest, can be found somewhere along the shore of Misquamicut, along with a slew of other forms of entertainment that can keep you occupied for an entire season.