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- DESIGN WEEK RI 2026...
HOST A DESIGN WEEK RI EVENT OR OPEN STUDIO
We’re so excited that you’re interested in joining us for an incredible week celebrating Rhode Island’s outstanding design sector! On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about hosting an event or Open Studio during DESIGN WEEK RI.
If you have any questions after reviewing this information, please contact us at designweekri@designxri.com.
What is DESIGN WEEK RI?
DESIGN WEEK RI is produced by DESIGNxRI.
:: spoken : Design by Rhode Island ::
DESIGNxRI is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) economic development organization dedicated to creating an opportunity-driven environment where Rhode Island’s designers, design businesses, and the broader design sector can thrive. We believe design is a critical economic driver that sparks change globally, socially, and locally here in Rhode Island.
Since 2013, DESIGN WEEK RI has been the state’s annual celebration of design and creativity. Each year, we invite the design and creative community to share the story of design in Rhode Island through collaboration, engagement, and inspiration.
This year, DESIGN WEEK RI will run from Thursday, September 10 – Friday, September 18. DESIGNxRI curates a week of programming with limited event overlap, ensuring maximum attendance and accessibility. Events highlight the many ways design shapes our communities, through talks, tours, workshops, panel discussions, family-friendly activities, and more.
DESIGN WEEK RI Highlights:
- Week of July 20th – DESIGN WEEK RI Calendar Announcement Party
- Thursday, September 10th – DESIGN WEEK RI Kick-Off Party
- September 11th – 12th – DESIGN WEEK RI Open Studios
- September 14th – 18th – DESIGN WEEK RI Events, featuring:
- DESIGNxRI Events
- Partnered Key Events
- Sponsored Events
- Curated Events from Community Proposals
- Friday, September 18th – Closing Party
What is Open Studios Weekend?
Open Studios Weekend is a curated three-day event within DESIGN WEEK RI where local studios open their doors to connect with the community. It’s a casual, drop-in experience that invites visitors to explore creative spaces, meet designers, and see Rhode Island’s design talent up close.
Open Studios will run from Friday, September 11 – Sunday, September 13:
- Friday – Providence Metro Area
- Saturday – Northern RI & Northern East Bay
- Sunday – Southern RI & Southern East Bay
Studios are encouraged to host come-and-go hours, no formal programming is required.
What are DESIGN WEEK RI Events?
DESIGN WEEK RI Events are curated programs scheduled during the main festival week, Monday, September 14 – Friday, September 18. These events feature planned, timed activities such as talks, workshops, panels, or tours that highlight Rhode Island’s design excellence.
Morning events are ideal for more intimate gatherings, while evening events are best suited for panels, discussions, or workshops with larger audiences.
Weekend dates are reserved exclusively for Open Studios, except for family- or youth-oriented programming.
APPLY TO HOST
Applications to host DESIGN WEEK RI Events or Open Studios are open now through March March 27, 2026. You have plenty of time to dream big, plan thoughtfully, and collaborate with fellow creatives to bring your ideas to life.
Got a concept you’d like to talk through? Reach out to us at designweekri@designxri.com, we’d love to brainstorm with you.
Please note that accepted DESIGN WEEK RI events and open studios will be required to pay a nominal administrative fee to offset the operational cost for planning and hosting DESIGN WEEK RI. In return, DESIGNxRI will promote your event through our channels, newsletters, etc, and provide participating events with all necessary marketing assets and promotional support to help make your event a success.
