Every summer, a community gathers with citizens of Providence, Rhode Island and citizens of the world for one of the most exciting summer events, WaterFire. A combination of the elements of the land displayed in the heart of the historic city is something worth seeing when visiting the east coast.

Using all the elements of the five senses, WaterFire Providence creates a public opportunity to share an experience that ignites inspiration. WaterFire is an event on the three rivers of downtown Providence in Waterplace Park with more than 80 bonfires, fragrant scents of aromatic wood smoke, firefighters lighting and controlling the flames as they glide up and down the rivers, torch-lit boats traveling along the river. and enchanting music from around the world, reinvigorating the urban experience for all to enjoy.

WaterFire is a summer event where normally after sunset, the park is filled with the sounds of a ceremonial gong, which means that the lighting of the fires and the music begins with soft percussion. The flames replace the glare of the electric light that is used to illuminate the city every other day. Individual bonfires are lit and move along the reflective waters of the Providence, Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck rivers in a gentle yet powerful way to reflect life and inspiration.

The community gathers along the river to see the light reflecting off the water and surrounding structures. WaterFire opens all the senses to its surroundings and invites visitors to walk through the city, savor the artistic surprises, take in the sights of the city, and mingle with our fellow citizens. The juxtapositions of music, light, smell and touch heighten awareness and intensify the experience of the surroundings in downtown Providence.

The event has been praised by both Rhode Island residents and international visitors as a powerful work of art and a moving symbol of Providence’s rebirth. WaterFire has captured the imaginations of more than ten million visitors, bringing the center to life and revitalizing the Rhode Island capital. The intrigue of the city and the magic of WaterFire have brought together viewers from all over the country and the world.

WaterFire creator Barnaby Evans treats all of Providence’s urban fabric as if it were a living sculpture. Season after season, the installation is recreated to develop the original concept, created in 1994. Each year is more powerful than the next and the connection is strengthened as an event for all visitors, creating a community of its own, which brings together both water and fire.