City Council defers decision on outdoor adult festival amid neighborhood noise concerns

The Pawtucket City Council meeting on June 5, 2025, featured a significant discussion regarding a proposed adult festival at the city pier, which has raised concerns among council members about its potential impact on the surrounding community. The festival, which has been held for eight years at a different location, is set to include live music, DJs, and food vendors, but will charge an entry fee, marking a departure from previous events that were free.

Council members expressed apprehension about the festival's noise levels and the implications of hosting an adult-oriented event in a residential area. Councilor Ruggio highlighted past complaints from residents regarding noise disturbances, particularly during late hours. He emphasized the need for the festival organizers to ensure that music levels remain respectful to the neighborhood, especially since the new location is closer to homes than previous sites.

The council ultimately decided to postpone the decision on the festival until their next meeting on June 25, allowing time for further discussions with the event organizers. This delay aims to address community concerns and explore potential adjustments to the festival's format to better align with the city's expectations for public events.

In addition to the festival discussion, the council also reviewed a petition from Aloha Restaurant Lounge for a one-day expansion of their liquor license to host outdoor events. Concerns were raised about noise and crowd control, particularly given the restaurant's location in a residential area. Council members indicated they would require police reports and further evaluation before making a decision on this request.

The outcomes of these discussions reflect the council's commitment to balancing community interests with the desire to host vibrant events in Pawtucket. As the city navigates these challenges, residents can expect continued dialogue about how to best serve both the community's cultural needs and its quality of life.