WaterFire

See the fire and water show in downtown Providence, Rhode Island.

Barnaby Evans created the WaterFire sculpture in 1994 as part of the 10th-anniversary celebration of First Night Providence. It was extremely popular and has become an annual event for the public ever since. WaterFire is on the three rivers in the middle of downtown Providence. Barnaby Evans is a local artist. WaterFire runs from May to the end of November annually. Local restaurants set up for the event and have tasty offerings for the visitors.

It is a magical experience as you watch the flames reflect on the river water. Visitors smell the burning wood, feel the warmth from the flames, and hear the crackling of the fires. The occurrence is an amazing feast for all of the senses. Basically, 100 bonfires burn just above the surface of the water for 2/3 of a mile while people gather or walk along the river and enjoy live music. Performers and fire tenders in boats keep the fires burning from sunset to midnight. The shadows and silhouettes from the boats and the performers are mesmerizing. There is no charge to attend this event; check out their website for more information.