Hot Summer Festivals in Providence, Rhode Island

When people think of Rhode Island in the summertime, images that immediately come to mind are of the miles of beautiful beaches that outline the Ocean State and great outdoor fun on the water and along the seashore. But inland, like in the state's capital city of Providence, there are plenty of summer festivals that are worth taking a break from the sun and sand.

One event that traditionally kicks off the summer season in the city is Waterfire. Created by artist Barnaby Evans, Waterfire has become the most popular tourist and cultural attraction in Rhode Island. With the natural sounds of the more than 100 bonfires glowing along the three rivers of downtown Providence, the fragrant scent of blazing cedar and pine and the accompanying music from around the world, Waterfire visitors are treated to a delightful festival of the senses. The best viewing spots are in Waterplace Park off Memorial Boulevard in downtown Providence, along Canal Street, and the park between Steeple Street and the beginning of the Waterplace basin. In conjunction with Waterfire, there are jazz performances on stage at Steeple Street and ballroom dancing on the cobblestone circle in Westminster Street located nearby in the city's financial district. The 2006 dates for Waterfire run on select weeknight and weekend evenings from May through October 2006. The schedule is announced in the spring and updated throughout the summer. Check the official Waterfire website at www.waterfire.org. Waterfire is free and a summer evening festival for all ages. Donations are gladly accepted.