Sugar with Pre-Show by Dan Watson (Jonnycake Center Fundraiser)

At a Glance

• What: Live music, dinner, and dancing benefiting the Jonnycake Center of Westerly

• When: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 7–10 p.m.

• Location: The Charlestown Rathskeller, 489A Old Coach Road, Charlestown, RI

• Admission: $35 online or $45 at the door

• Entertainment: Dan Watson acoustic pre-show followed by Sugar

• Food & Drink: Dinner and drinks available for purchase

• Beneficiary: Jonnycake Center of Westerly

• Tickets: Advance purchase recommended

• Age Restrictions: Not specified

• Parking: On-site parking at the Rathskeller

Event Description

Sugar with Pre-Show by Dan Watson (Jonnycake Center Fundraiser) brings an evening of live music, dancing, and community support to the Charlestown Rathskeller on Saturday, October 17. Featuring an acoustic opening performance by local musician Dan Watson followed by the high-energy dance band Sugar, the benefit raises money for the Jonnycake Center of Westerly and its work helping individuals and families facing food insecurity and financial hardship.

The evening begins at 7 p.m. with Watson’s acoustic set, giving guests a chance to settle in, enjoy dinner or drinks, and ease into the night’s entertainment. Sugar then takes the stage for a lively performance designed to get the crowd moving, turning the Rathskeller into a dance floor for a good cause.

Two Performances, One Night of Music

Dan Watson opens the evening with an acoustic performance that sets a more relaxed tone before the main event. A familiar name on the local music scene, Watson brings an intimate, stripped-down approach to his performances, offering a contrast to the larger sound that follows.

Sugar takes over with a set built around popular dance music and crowd-pleasing favorites. Known for energetic performances and an upbeat stage presence, the band specializes in keeping audiences entertained and on their feet.

The combination gives guests two distinct musical experiences, beginning with an acoustic pre-show and building toward an evening of dancing.

Supporting the Jonnycake Center of Westerly

The night’s beneficiary, the Jonnycake Center of Westerly, is a nonprofit organization serving individuals and families in need throughout the greater Westerly area.

Its programs address food insecurity and other challenges that can make everyday life difficult for households struggling financially. Through food assistance, social services, and community support, the organization helps residents access essential resources and work toward greater stability.

The Center’s work is particularly important for people facing unexpected expenses, employment disruptions, or other circumstances that strain household budgets.

By attending the fundraiser, guests can support those efforts while enjoying an evening out. The event offers a way for the community to come together around a shared cause without making the occasion feel like a formal charity dinner.

A Local Landmark: The Charlestown Rathskeller

The Charlestown Rathskeller is more than a restaurant and bar. Nestled in the woods of Charlestown, the historic establishment has long been a destination for locals and visitors looking for a casual place to gather, eat, and enjoy live entertainment.

Its rustic atmosphere, expansive outdoor seating, fire pits, lawn games, and music programming have helped establish it as a distinctive South County gathering place.

The Rathskeller’s combination of food, drinks, and entertainment makes it a natural setting for a community fundraiser. Guests can arrive early for dinner, enjoy the acoustic opening set, and stay for Sugar’s dance performance.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

Tickets and Event Information

Advance tickets are $35 per person, with admission increasing to $45 at the door. Purchasing tickets ahead of time is recommended.

The event runs from 7 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, at the Charlestown Rathskeller.

To purchase tickets, click the Event Ticketing link below.

Featured image is an artistic representation inspired by the event and may not depict the actual people, location, or activities shown.