First Strike Festival

Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark, 67 Roosevelt Avenue. Nearly 200 years ago, one hundred women weavers walked out of the textile mills in the village of Pawtucket, beginning the first industrial labor strike in America. Today, the National Park Service will offer an exciting lineup of free performances commemorating that historic moment in American history, cohosted by the Rhode Island dance company The Haus of Glitter. The Festival is centered around celebrating spring weather, honoring the struggle for labor rights, acknowledging the complexity of American history, and welcoming rest and peace. Throughout the day, park rangers will offer free tours inside Slater Mill. Outside, partners from the Old Slater Mill Association, Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, Blackstone Collaborative, Metamorphosis Dance Company, RI Spinners Guild, URI Master Gardeners, and others will offer fun, family-friendly activities. Free. www.nps.gov.