Category Archives: Water Fire

October 8, 2016

Water Fire (Providence, RI)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event: September 24, 2016 (next and last Water Fire of the year is Nov. 5)

Location: Memorial Blvd, Providence, RI

Time Of Event: First lighting is a little after sunset

Cost: Free

Parking: There are several parking lots and garages in the area. Off street parking is limited during the event

Dog Friendly: Yes

Web Site: Water Fire

Originally an award-winning sculpture by Barnaby Evans in 1994, Water Fire has become a staple of the Providence entertainment scene. Initially, the Water Fire display was a celebration of the 10th anniversary of First Night Providence. There were 11 braziers, or hot coal baskets, that were lit at the first Water Fire. There are now over 80 in the three rivers of downtown Providence.

It was another warm summer day when we arrived. Summer’s last gasp. And there was plenty of outdoor pre-Water Fire entertainment.

The first braziers are lit right after sunset (around 7 pm when I went). People on boats, some in the fashion of gondolas, float by during the festival and music is played during the event.

It was a cool evening. But the warmth of the fires kept us warm.

This man kept going by and throwing flowers to various people. I didn’t get one.

Of course, Providence looks beautiful with or without the water Fire lighting.

It was also Chinese Culture Night. Steeple Street had booths with information and games about Chinese culture.

The next Water Fire is scheduled for Nov. 5 (bundle up if you go). It will be your last chance to attend the event this year asit is the last Water Fire event of the year. They usually start up again in the spring of each year, usually in March.

Dogs are allowed at the Water Fire event.

Oakley is a 4 month old Australian Cattledog