French in Newport

We’re excited to be a partner of this year’s French in Newport community day! Join us at the Vernon House and throughout the City to celebrate the Franco-American alliance during the American Revolution.

On July 11, 1780 the French Allied Forces, led by Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, arrived in Newport. On July 11, 2026 step into Revolutionary-era Newport for a day of living history, performances, demonstrations, and hands-on activities commemorating the arrival of General Rochambeau and the French forces in 1780. Programs will take place throughout Washington Square, with trolley service at key locations.
Featured throughout the day: The French Military Band will perform at both the beginning and end of the day’s programs, and the Kentish Guards Fife & Drum Corps will perform every hour for 25 minutes beginning at 11:30 a.m. The National Park Service and the Daughters of the American Revolution, Battle of Rhode Island Chapter, will also be on site throughout the day.

Make sure you visit the Vernon House and get your activity passport stamped! Vernon House served as the headquarters for General Rochambeau and important Revolutionary War strategies were planned onsite, leading to the eventual victory of the allied forces and American independence.

Learn more at https://newporthistory.org/event/french-in-newport-2026/