Category: News

PROVIDENCE, RI – Mayor Brett P. Smiley and Director of Art, Culture, Tourism Joe Wilson Jr., PVDFest Producing Partner and FirstWorks Executive Artistic Director Kathleen Pletcher, City Council President Rachel Miller, PVDFest partners, artists, and sponsors today gathered in celebration ahead of the City’s ninth annual PVDFest, happening this weekend, September 8-10, at the 195 District Park in Providence.

“We have worked hard to cultivate an exciting three-day riverside celebration of our local artists and artisans  that exemplifies everything that makes Providence the Creative Capital,” said Mayor Brett P. Smiley. “Each year, this festival reaffirms Providence reputation as a global arts, food, and culture destination. This year will continue that tradition, offering  a unique experience to every festival goer.”

PVDFest attendees can find the weekend’s schedule and map, transportation, and accessibility information, a curated Spotify playlist previewing some of this year’s performers, and other details on the PVDFest website. In addition to this year’s programming, tickets are available to the PVDFest Opening Night Party, held at the CIC building on Friday, September 8 from 7PM to 9PM. As the signature fundraising event for PVDFest, the Opening Night Party helps ensure the festival’s sustainability. Headliner-level ticketholders will receive a limited edition 2023 PVDFest Commemorative Poster, created by local artist, PVDFest curator, and Haus of Codec Executive Director Julio Berroa.

For maximum comfort, PVDFest attendees are welcome to bring a chair or blanket, sunscreen, and a water bottle to enjoy a full day of festivities.

Attendees traveling to Providence should be advised that drivers on Route I-95 can expect delays due to lane closures near exit 33. Drivers should plan extra time for travel, and use alternate routes such as Route 10 and I-295.

“The lineup of fun at this weekend’s PVD Fest is simply unbeatable, and I look forward to celebrating Providence for all of its strengths,” said City Council President Rachel Miller. “I am excited to welcome residents from around the city and visitors to take in performances and dine on some culinary delights. Thank you to our generous sponsors and volunteers who have made the festival possible for eight years running. A special thanks to our folks in the Arts, Cultural, and Tourism Department for their dedicated work!”

“FirstWorks is thrilled to kick-off PVDFest 2023!  We gather with artists, partners, and attendees to celebrate new vistas in our beloved Creative Capital. We are ready to experience the joy and inspiration of music, art, food and the abounding creativity of Providence,” said FirstWorks Executive Artistic Director and PVDFest Founding Partner, Kathleen Pletcher.  “What began as an idea has grown into a tradition that is always innovating to showcase our city in new ways. We’re honored by the artists who have been partners in growing PVDFest since the very beginning, dazzling people from near and far with their extraordinary artistry.”

This year’s festival will feature artisan markets and performances that honor the Native American history of Providence and the 195 District Park land. Lynsea Montanari, the Indigenous Empowerment Coordinator for the Tomaquag Museum, opened the press conference with a moving land acknowledgement.  “Providence is the homeland of the Narragansett people,” said Lynsea Montanari. “We still live here today, yet we often go unseen. Erased from the narrative. I am grateful to PVDFest for using their platform to amplify my voice, allowing me to be a reminder of our existence. We are still here!” Montanari will also lead a land acknowledgment on the main stage of PVDFest on Saturday.

Today’s press conference also featured a performance by local Salsa artist, EhShawnee, who is returning to PVDFest as a headliner on Friday night for the second year. “Being part of PVD Fest is an incredible honor. Our salsa band is excited to contribute to the festival’s mission of showcasing local talent and fostering a sense of unity,” said EhShawnee, a beloved salsa musician performing on Friday evening. “Through our performance, we aim to reflect the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Let the rhythm of salsa unite us and make history in the city of Providence.”

Additional main stage headliners include Chachi Carvalho on Friday night, Flawless and Mavis Staples on Saturday night, and the Afrika Nyaga Drum & Dance Festival, curated by Providence-based djembefola Sidy Maiga, on Sunday afternoon.

“We couldn’t be more honored and delighted to be partnering with Mayor Smiley and the City of Providence during this year’s PVD Fest,” said Nancy Gaucher-Thomas, co-chair of the Bannister Community Art Project. “The Bannister Community Art Project, a community focused project, will be leading the parade on Sunday, September 10th from the Van Leesten bridge. We are hoping folks young and old will join us as we sing, dance, and celebrate our colorful city of Providence.”

In addition to the festival’s incredible celebration of visual and performing artists, festival attendees will also enjoy a wide variety of culinary offerings. “Providence boasts a vibrant food truck scene that shines brightly,” said Eric Weiner of Food Trucks In. “You can reliably find local food trucks in downtown, on Broad St. at the Pedestrian Bridge, and at popular events like the Providence Flea and Food Truck Friday. PVD Food Truck Events is excited to unite many of these food trucks for a weekend of support during PVDFest at Food Truck Village. There’s guaranteed to be something for everyone to savor throughout the entire weekend.”

“The Providence Department of Art, Culture and Tourism could not be more proud to once again present PVDFest to the people of this great city,” said ACT Director Joe Wilson Jr. “Producing this festival takes a village, and we are grateful to FirstWorks and all of our partners and sponsors for helping to make this ninth festival a reality. We are all thrilled that this year’s festival will showcase hundreds of local performing artists, artisans, and food vendors. We are also so excited to partner with WaterFire, to celebrate the life and legacy of a groundbreaking local African American artist, and to welcome home Rhode Island’s own rap and hip-hop phenomenon Flawless to perform in his beloved city. Finally, and on a more personal note, I look forward to witnessing a living legend grace Providence with her presence and performance on Saturday night. We will welcome with open arms the civil rights icon, Kennedy Center honoree and Rock and Roll/Gospel Hall of Famer Mavis Staples! Hope to see you all down by the riverside for and extraordinary weekend of celebration and joy.”

PVDFest is made possible in large part by the generous sponsors who continue to support Providence’s creative culture year-round, including Providence Tourism Council, RI Commerce, The Boston Globe Rhode Island, Waste Management, Breeze, ProvPort, Waterson Terminal Services LLC, WPRI, iHeart Media, Brown University, Delta Dental, Dimeo Construction Company, Dunkin’, Rhode Island Energy, RISD, Surv, Amica, Fidelity Investments, Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, Conduent, Cornish Associates, Evolis, First Bristol Corporation/Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites, Johnson & Wales University, BankNewport, The Foundry, PLDO Strategies, Withum, Verizon, Wexford Science & Technology, AARP Rhode Island, America News, Bird Rides, Half Street Group, Matunuck Oyster Bar, Providence Monthly, The Public’s Radio, Regency Plaza/Chestnut Hill Realty, Rhode Island Monthly, RIPTA, and Santander. In addition to sponsors, PVDFest relies on the contributions of the hard-working volunteers to make the event a memorable experience for everyone. If you can volunteer for a few hours or a whole day, please sign up here.

For more information about PVDFest, please visit PVDFest.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About PVDFest
Mayor Brett P. Smiley, the City’s Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Producing Partner FirstWorks will once again host PVDFest, Providence’s signature outdoor arts festival, September 8-10. This year’s festival will bring people from both sides of the Providence River to celebrate what has repeatedly garnered Providence its reputation as the Creative Capital— our artists. We will host three days of musical performances, public art, good eats and curated spectacles on the waterfront and together build community around the things that make our city unique.

New Accessibility Supports Incorporated in Map, Performance Locations

PROVIDENCE, RI – PVDFest has released the following logistic, safety and transportation information for community members and visitors. For more information on festival programming and scheduling, visit www.pvdfest.com. A full schedule and map will be released in the coming days.

Festival Overview
In the ninth year, PVDFest continues to expand programming and partnerships to showcase Providence as the Creative Capital. This year’s festival includes:

• 500+ Artists
• 5 Stages
• 2 Spectacles
• 30+ Food Trucks
• 200+ Artisan Vendors

PVDFest hours of operation are as follows: 

• Friday: 5:00PM-8:00PM
• Saturday: 12:00PM-7:00PM
• Sunday: 12:00PM-6:00PM

Road Closures Information
There will be multiple road closures throughout the PVDFest footprint from Friday, September 8, through Sunday, September 10. Drivers are encouraged to use alternate means of transportation when possible and are reminded to respect road closures. The PVDFest footprint will be vehicle-free on Saturday, September 8 from 11AM-10PM. All roadways will re-open at Sunday, September 10.

Friday, September 8 road closures:

• East End of Peck St. (looping behind the Brown MBA building)
• South Water St. from Memorial Blvd to Dollar St.
• Packett St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Planet St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Power St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Doubloon St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• James St. from South Water St. to South Main St.

Saturday, September 9 road closures:

• East End of Peck St. (looping behind the Brown MBA building)
• South Water St. from Memorial Blvd to Wickenden St.
• Packett St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Planet St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Power St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Doubloon St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• James St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Dollar St. from South Main St. to South Water St.

Sunday, September 10 road closures:

• East End of Peck St. (looping behind the Brown MBA building)
• South Water St. from Memorial Blvd to Wickenden St.
• Packett St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Planet St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Power St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Doubloon St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• James St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Dollar St. from South Main St. to South Water St.

Transportation to PVDFest
When using your GPS and map apps, input the following address: Providence Innovation District Park.

• BIKING: bike racks can be found in various locations near the festival. If you don’t have a bike, you can rent one through Spin, Bird Rides, Veo Ride. Find biking directions using the following address in your GPS, use one of the many bikes routes available on our website, or use the Providence-based app Pointz which has a range of different routing options from safest to most direct.
• SCOOTER: PVDFest is partnering with Bird Rides (scooters and bikes) for festival weekend! Bird bikes and scooters cost $1 to unlock and a per-minute fee thereafter. Users can check the Bird app for the most up-to-date pricing in Providence or stop-by the Bird Rides tent on Saturday and Sunday at the corner of Dyer Street and Crawford Street Bridge to learn more.  Please note, bikes and scooters are not allowed inside the footprint but are a fast and convenient way to navigate to the Festival. Help keep the Festival footprint safe and tidy by using Bird’s Community Mode which allows anyone with a Bird account to report or provide feedback on vehicle-related issues such as poorly parked or damaged vehicles in their area. For more information, visit bird.co.
• RIDE SHARE APPS: Due to street closures and local traffic, if you plan to use a ride share app to visit the Festival, we recommend using 1 Kennedy Plaza OR 1 Dorrance Street, Providence RI 02903 as drop-off/pick-up addresses. These addresses will take you within a 5-10 minute walk of the footprint and help you avoid anticipated traffic.
• BUS: Most major bus routes service downtown. Plan your trip using RIPTA’s Trip Planner, available on the RIPTA homepage.
• DRIVING/CARPOOLING: There are parking garages in surrounding areas east and west of the Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Pedestrian Bridge, which is at the center of the festival footprint. Please plan ahead for traffic.

Parking at PVDFest
Conveniently located just steps away from PVDFest, the South Street Landing Garage is available for parking throughout the festival weekend. Rates vary depending on your stay. More information can be found on their website. Additional paid parking can be found at various downtown lots and garages. Due to road closures, residents in the surrounding neighborhoods should be aware of the following:

Friday, September 8 – No Parking as of 6:00AM on:

• South Water from Memorial Blvd to Wickenden St.
• South Main St. from Wickenden St. to College St.
• Ship St. from Richmond St.
• Packett St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Planet St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Power St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Doubloon St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• James St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Dyer St. from Ship St. to Dorrance St.

Saturday, September 9 – No Parking as of 6:00AM on:

• College St. from Memorial Blvd to South Main St.
• South Water St. from Memorial Blvd to Wickenden St.
• South Main St. from College St to Wickenden St.
• Ship St. from Richmond St. to Dyer St.
• Dyer St. from Ship St to Elm St.
• Dyer St. from Ship St to Dorrance St.
• Dyer St. from Hay St to Custom House St.
• Packett St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Planet St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Power St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Doubloon St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• James St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• South Main St. From Wickenden St. to College St.

Sunday, September 10 – No Parking as of 6:00 am on: 

• College St. from Memorial Blvd to South Main St.
• South Water St. from Memorial Blvd to Wickenden St.
• South Main St. from College St. to Wickenden St.
• Ship St. from Richmond St. to Dyer St.
• Dyer St. from Ship St. to Elm St
• Dyer St. from Ship St. to Dorrance St.
• Dyer St. from Hay St. to Custom House St.
• Packett St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Planet St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Power St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• Doubloon St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• James St. from South Water St. to South Main St.
• South Main St. From Wickenden St. to College St.

ADA accessible parking will be available at the below locations (please look for signage):

On Friday 9/8:

• Dyer St. from Ship St. to Dorrance St.
• South Water St. from James St. to Dollar St.

On Saturday 9/9 and Sunday 9/10:

• Dyer St. from Ship St. to Dorrance St.
• South Main St. from Packett St. to Memorial Park

Wheelchairs will be available for free at the PVDFest Information Booth in District Park, adjacent to the Pedestrian Bridge. Please bring a form of ID to reserve.

See Something, Say Something

The festival footprint will be secured by Providence Police Department and private security staff to ensure public safety and traffic flow. Throughout the duration of the festival public safety, Providence Emergency Management and first aid services will be located on the festival footprint.

In an emergency or to report a suspicious person, activity or item (a suspicious backpack, package or container) notify a police officer immediately or call 9-1-1. In the event of a lost child, children should be brought to the nearest information booth.

PVDFest is an all-ages event. However, you must be 21+ and have valid photo ID to purchase and drink alcoholic beverages. The use of tobacco and marijuana is not permitted on the festival footprint. Items NOT allowed inside the festival include but are not limited to:

• Weapons and contraband of any kind
• Outside alcoholic beverages
• Marijuana
• Vapes
• Fireworks or explosives
• Illegal or illicit substances of any kind
• Motorized vehicles including dirt bikes, electric bicycles, ATVs and scooters
• Laser pointers

PVDFest is a “No Drone Zone” and the use of drones over groups of people is prohibited without approval by the FAA.

PVDFest is made possible in large part by the generous sponsors who continue to support Providence’s creative culture year-round, including Providence Tourism Council, RI Commerce, The Boston Globe Rhode Island, Waste Management, Breeze, ProvPort, Waterson Terminal Services LLC, WPRI, iHeart Media, Brown University, Delta Dental, Dimeo Construction Company, Dunkin’, Rhode Island Energy, RISD, Surv, Amica, Fidelity Investments, Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, Conduent, Cornish Associates, Evolis, First Bristol Corporation/Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites, Johnson & Wales University, BankNewport, The Foundry, PLDO Strategies, Withum, Verizon, Wexford Science & Technology, AARP Rhode Island, America News, Bird Rides, Half Street Group, Matunuck Oyster Bar, Providence Monthly, The Public’s Radio, Regency Plaza/Chestnut Hill Realty, Rhode Island Monthly, RIPTA, and Santander. In addition to sponsors, PVDFest relies on the contributions of the hard-working volunteers to make the event a memorable experience for everyone. If you can volunteer for a few hours or a whole day, please sign up here.

More information about PVDFest will be released in the days leading up to the waterfront celebration. For more information about PVDFest please visit pvdfest.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About PVDFest
Mayor Brett P. Smiley, the City’s Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Producing Partner FirstWorks will once again host PVDFest, Providence’s signature outdoor arts festival September 8-10. This year’s Festival will bring people from both sides of the Providence River to celebrate what has repeatedly garnered Providence its reputation as the Creative Capital— our artists. We will host three days of musical performances, public art, good eats and curated spectacles on the waterfront and together build community around the things that make our city unique.

PROVIDENCE, RI – PVDFest and WaterFire Providence today announced details for a full WaterFire lighting that will illuminate the Providence River on Saturday, September 9. Following PVDFest headliner Mavis Staples, the lighting will begin at 7:05 p.m. and the braziers will remain lit until midnight. The installation features 85 fire braziers floating on the river, which are lit at dusk and burn throughout the evening, accompanied by music and other performances. PVDFest programming will begin at 12 p.m. and WaterFire’s on shore programming will open at 6:00 p.m.

“I am thrilled to welcome WaterFire to PVDFest this year,” said Mayor Brett P. Smiley. “PVDFest and WaterFire are two of Providence’s biggest attractions and beloved local traditions, and I am excited to bring them together for a full day celebrating our artistic heritage and vibrant community.”

Following PVDFest’s Artisan Markets and Food Truck Village, the WaterFire Arts Festival Plaza kicks off on Washington and Steeple Streets from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., where visitors can browse and shop from a variety of local artists and makers in mediums such as glass, photography, jewelry and more. This outdoor artisan fair will showcase some of the great artwork created in Rhode Island and offer visitors the opportunity to support the local arts economy by purchasing work by Rhode Island-based artists.

“WaterFire is excited to join forces with PVDFest and the City of Providence to bring a day-long celebration of community on our riverfront and showcase the absolute best Providence has to offer,” says Barnaby Evans, Creator, Executive Artistic Director + coCEO of WaterFire Providence.

In addition to the lighting, additional programming will set a festive scene along the WaterFire footprint. Andrew Anselmo, Origami Master will be creating art throughout the evening at Market Square, and beginning at sunset, visitors can find A Silent Soapbox living statue at the bottom of the Washington Street Bridge and Canal Walk. Ten31 Productions will be illuminating the World War Monument in Memorial Park. The Starry, Starry Night installation returns to Memorial Park near the Crawford Street Bridge; festivalgoers can add their light to the night by wishing on a star or dedicate a luminaria candle lantern. Lastly, food fairs will be open on Washington Street, College Street, and Canal Walk, offering festival favorites including Kettle Korn Express, One2Taco&More, Full House Q, Saugy’s, The Incredabowl Food Company, Scoop T’s Ice Cream, Gong Cha,  Del’s Lemonade, Vegan Suga, Pita Pocket, Spanglish, Pam’s Grill on the Go, FireWorks Catering, Poppin’ Minis RI and Sal’s. Trinity Brewhouse will have two locations, one on the corner of Canal and Steeple Street, and the other on the corner of Canal and Washington Street. They will be serving up local brews and wine from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

PVDFest is made possible in large part by the generous sponsors who continue to support Providence’s creative culture year-round, including the Providence Tourism Council, RI Commerce, The Boston Globe Rhode Island, Waste Management, Breeze, ProvPort, Waterson Terminal Services LLC, WPRI, iHeart Media, Delta Dental, Dimeo Construction Company, Rhode Island Energy, RISD, Amica, Fidelity Investments, Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, Cornish Associates, Evolis, First Bristol Corporation/Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites, Johnson & Wales University, BankNewport, The Foundry, PLDO Strategies, Withum, Verizon, Wexford Science & Technology, AARP Rhode Island, Bird Rides, Half Street Group, Matunuck Oyster Bar, Providence Monthly, The Public’s Radio, Regency Plaza/Chestnut Hill Realty, RI Monthly, and RIPTA. In addition to sponsors, PVDFest relies on the contributions of the hard-working volunteers to make the event a memorable experience for everyone. If you can volunteer for a few hours or a whole day, please sign up here.

WaterFire Providence is made possible by State of Rhode Island, Governor Daniel J. McKee; Rhode Island Commerce; The City of Providence, Mayor Brett P. Smiley; The Providence City Council; The Rhode Island General Assembly; Dunkin’; Providence Tourism Council; Rhode Island State Council of the Arts; Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau; PVDFest & FirstWorks; The 28th North American Catalysis Society Meeting; Rhode Island Energy; Bank Newport; Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation; Brown University; Cox Business; Check the Stigma Hockey Classic to benefit  Horizon Healthcare Partners; Amica Insurance; Rhode Island School of Design; Fidelity Investments; Textron Charitable Trust; Bank of America; United Way of Rhode Island; Rhode Island Department of Education; XQ Institute; Cox Media; Rhode Island Monthly; WPRI 12 & FOX Providence & The Rhode Show; Cumulus Media; iHeart Media, Inc.; The Providence Journal; IGT; JP Morgan Chase & Co;. Gooseneck VIneyards; United Site Services Northeast; Stanley Tree Service Inc.; AJT Supplies; Fire Works Catering; McLaughlin & Moran, Inc; Dan’s Management Company, a Dunkin’ Franchisee; Let’s Roam.

More information about PVDFest will be released in the coming weeks leading up to the waterfront celebration. For more information about PVDFest, please visit PVDFest.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

###

  About PVDFest

Mayor Brett P. Smiley, the City’s Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Producing Partner FirstWorks will once again host PVDFest, Providence’s signature outdoor arts festival, September 8-10. This year’s festival will bring people from both sides of the Providence River to celebrate what has repeatedly garnered Providence its reputation as the Creative Capital— our artists. We will host three days of musical performances, public art, good eats and curated spectacles on the waterfront and together build community around the things that make our city unique.

About WaterFire Providence

WaterFire Providence® is an independent, 501(c)3 non-profit arts organization whose mission is to inspire Providence and its visitors by revitalizing the urban experience, fostering community engagement, and creatively transforming the city by presenting WaterFire for all to enjoy. Each year nearly 1 million people come to downtown Providence to experience WaterFire contributing over $149,000,000 to the local economy, generating over $9,000,000 of direct tax revenue for the State of Rhode Island and supporting 1,294 jobs for community residents and strengthening Providence’s Creative Capital and Rhode Island’s State for the Arts brands. For information about WaterFire Providence and the WaterFire Arts Center visit https://waterfire.org/.

PROVIDENCE, RI –  PVDFest today announced that dozens of independent artisans and makers curated by some of Providence’s favorite market managers will join this year’s festival  for a weekend of shopping and community experiences along the Providence River.

“Providence is known around the country for its makers, designers and innovators,” said Mayor Brett P. Smiley. “I am excited to be welcoming so many of them to this year’s festival and showcasing their talents to our many festivalgoers.”

Saturday’s South Water Street Markets will be held from 12-6pm and will be curated by Monica Martin, co-founder of Juicy Market PVD and Spocka Summa, founder of the Anti-Robot Club and The Marketplace at Farm Fresh RI. Sunday’s markets will be curated by the award-winning Providence Flea from 12-3pm and Haus of Codec from 12-6pm. The Providence Flea will showcase some of the region’s best artisans, makers, vintage vendors and food purveyors. Haus of Codec supports unhoused young people through the arts and educational empowerment, and provides their clients with opportunities to show, sell, and market their work.

“Haus of Codec is proud to have a network of more than 250 artists from across Rhode Island, and we are super excited about our partnership for the second year in a row with PVDfest, which gives artists a platform at one of the biggest events of the city,” said Haus of Codec Executive Director Julio Berroa. “Our artists get to connect, share and sell their works with a completely fresh audience. This year’s waterfront location at the I95 District Park is bound to be an even more refreshing venue and we hope to see you there!”

This year’s Artisan Markets round out the full PVDFest experience by offering attendees even more opportunities to shop, eat, and enjoy all things local while meeting and mingling with some of the region’s best creative makers and artisans. With hundreds of artists performing across the festival footprint, 6 stages of dynamic concert experiences and award-winning headliners, nearly two dozen food trucks sharing the best of globally-inspired local cuisine, family-friendly programming, local arts events activating the city, a full WaterFire lighting, and a shopping experience unlike any other, PVDFest is the celebration and destination of the season. Attendees are encouraged to check the PVDFest website for updates as more vendors and artists join this year’s the festival.

PVDFest is made possible in large part by the generous sponsors who continue to support Providence’s creative culture year-round, including Providence Tourism Council, RI Commerce, The Boston Globe Rhode Island, Waste Management, Breeze, ProvPort, Waterson Terminal Services LLC, WPRI, iHeart Media, Delta Dental, Dimeo Construction Company, Dunkin’, Rhode Island Energy, RISD, Amica, Fidelity Investments, Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, Cornish Associates, Evolis, First Bristol Corporation/Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites, Johnson & Wales University, BankNewport, The Foundry, PLDO Strategies, Withum, Verizon, Wexford Science & Technology, AARP Rhode Island, America News, Bird Rides, Half Street Group, Matunuck Oyster Bar, Providence Monthly, The Public’s Radio, Regency Plaza/Chestnut Hill Realty, Rhode Island Monthly, and RIPTA. In addition to sponsors, PVDFest relies on the contributions of the hard-working volunteers to make the event a memorable experience for everyone. If you can volunteer for a few hours or a whole day, please sign up here.

More information about PVDFest will be released in the coming weeks leading up to the waterfront celebration. For more information about PVDFest, please visit PVDFest.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About PVDFest
Mayor Brett P. Smiley, the City’s Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Producing Partner FirstWorks will once again host PVDFest, Providence’s signature outdoor arts festival, September 8-10. This year’s festival will bring people from both sides of the Providence River to celebrate what has repeatedly garnered Providence its reputation as the Creative Capital— our artists. We will host three days of musical performances, public art, good eats and curated spectacles on the waterfront and together build community around the things that make our city unique.

About Monica Martin
Monica Martin, Rhode Island Native and Entrepreneur. Ever since graduating high school, Monica Martin has developed a deep appreciation for events management and the hospitality industry. Never saying no to an opportunity, Monica has found herself living in various locations throughout the east coast, such as Block Island, Boston, and the Hamptons. After seventeen years in the industry she has made her way back to Rhode Island where she’s now the Events Manager at Black Sheep, and Co-Founder of Juicy Market PVD.

About Spocka Summa
Spocka Summa, born & raised in Providence RI, is a musician , visual artist and curator. After starting his multi-media brand the Anti-Robot Club in 2020, Spocka launched The Marketplace late 2021 in Providence. He currently curates & hosts the marketplace every 3rd Saturday at FarmFresh RI, featuring over 60 creative vendors & small businesses.

About Providence Flea
Catch the award-winning Providence Flea along South Water Street on Sunday during PVDFest from 12- 3 pm, showcasing an ever-changing lineup of the area’s best local artisans, makers, vintage vendors and food purveyors. Highlights include vintage finds, handcrafted jewelry, soaps and apothecary; wood crafts, ceramics, glasswork, original art and graphic design, vintage records and upcycled clothing, streetwear, fresh baked goods and more! providenceflea.com

About Haus of Codec
Haus of Codec is excited to facilitate the Sunday Marketplace at PVDFest for the second year in a row. Our mission of working towards and end of transitional age youth homelessness in Rhode Island through the arts and educational empowerment give our clients the opportunity to show, sell and market their work among a network of over 250 artists and creative professionals across New England. Our vendors and artists bring out the best of our communities, and we’re honored to be featured alongside The Providence Flea for this annual celebration. To learn more about Haus of Codec, our events and supportive services, visit www.HausofCodec.org or follow us on Social Media @HausofCodec.

Nearly two dozen vendors to serve up regional favorites along the Providence River

PROVIDENCE, RI – Providence’s famous culinary scene takes center stage on the banks of the Providence River this year with the return of the fan-favorite PVDFest Food Village. From Friday, September 8 through Sunday, September 10, more than 20 vendors will serve up delicious fare from across the state, showcasing the best in local cuisine.

Throughout PVDFest weekend, food trucks from Providence and beyond will serve a wide variety of culinary delights including seafood, BBQ, Dominican, Hawaiian, Jamaican, and Mexican street food and sweet treats to satisfy every festival-goer’s appetite. The PVDFest Food Truck Village will be open during festival weekend from 5PM to 8PM on Friday along South Water Street, and on Saturday and Sunday it will be held in the 195 District Park, located between Dollar, South Water, South Main, and Point Streets. Saturday hours are from 12PM to 7:30PM and Sunday hours are from 12PM to 6PM.

Festival-goers are encouraged to bring their family, friends, and appetite to experience the exciting food truck fare at PVDFest, which will include:

• Atomic Blonde Ice Cream
• Big Dog Eats
• Binge BBQ
• Blount Clam Shack
• Boba Wave
• Cultro
• Friskie Fries
• Gnarly Vines Food Truck
• Gonzalez Food Truck
• Haven Brothers
• Hometown Poke
• Ja Patty RI
• Kona Ice
• Masa Taqueria PVD
• Matilda
• Pam’s Grill on the Go
• Poppin Minis RI
• Presto Strange O Coffee Truck
• RaRa’s Surf Shack
• Shishkaberry’s of New England
• Shuckin’ Truck RI
• Twisted Ts

In addition to the many food trucks heading into the City for the weekend, Matunuck Oyster Bar is also returning to PVDFest this year, serving fresh oysters from Rhode Island’s own Potters Pond.

PVDFest is made possible in large part by the generous sponsors who continue to support Providence’s creative culture year-round, including the Providence Tourism Council, RI Commerce, The Boston Globe Rhode Island, Waste Management, Breeze, ProvPort, Waterson Terminal Services LLC, WPRI, iHeart Media, Delta Dental, Dimeo Construction Company, Dunkin’, Rhode Island Energy, RISD, Amica, Fidelity Investments, Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, Cornish Associates, Evolis, First Bristol Corporation/Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites, Johnson & Wales University, BankNewport, The Foundry, PLDO Strategies, Withum, Verizon, Wexford Science & Technology, AARP Rhode Island, America News, Bird Rides, Half Street Group, Matunuck Oyster Bar, Providence Monthly, The Public’s Radio, Regency Plaza/Chestnut Hill Realty, Rhode Island Monthly, RIPTA. In addition to sponsors, PVDFest relies on the contributions of the hard-working volunteers to make the event a memorable experience for everyone. If you can volunteer for a few hours or a whole day, please sign up here.

More information about PVDFest will be released in the coming weeks leading up to the waterfront celebration. For more information about PVDFest, please visit PVDFest.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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About PVDFest

Mayor Brett P. Smiley, the City’s Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Producing Partner FirstWorks will once again host PVDFest, Providence’s signature outdoor arts festival, September 8-10. This year’s festival will bring people from both sides of the Providence River to celebrate what has repeatedly garnered Providence its reputation as the Creative Capital— our artists. We will host three days of musical performances, public art, good eats and curated spectacles on the waterfront and together build community around the things that make our city unique.

Helen Baskerville-Dukes, Gonzalo Cuervo Recognized as Parade Grand Marshals

PROVIDENCE, RI— Mayor Brett P. Smiley today announced the return of the PVDFest Parade, a signature PVDFest spectacle festival goers of all ages can participate in, on Sunday, September 10. This year’s parade will honor Edward Mitchell Bannister, the 19th-century Black artist who was a prominent member of the Providence art community, one of the founders of the Providence Art Club, and a leader in the history of American landscape painting. Mayor Smiley has also named Helen Baskerville-Dukes and Gonzalo Cuervo as this year’s Grand Marshal honorees.  

“Providence’s vibrant arts culture is rooted in the city’s iconic artists from past and present. I’m thrilled that this year’s PVDFest Parade will honor a beloved and renowned artist from Providence’s history, Edward Mitchell Bannister.” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “The PVDFest parade is a cherished part of the festival experience and I encourage all of our residents and visitors from near and far to join us in celebration of the local artists that make the Creative Capital so special.” 

The PVDFest Parade begins at the 195 District Park in front of the CIC building at 12:30PM, brings festival goers through Innovation Park, over the Providence River via the Michael Van Leesten Pedestrian Bridge, and concludes at Market Square at approximately 1PM.  A speaking program will begin at 1:30PM at Market Square, where Mayor Smiley will declare September 10 “Edward Mitchell Bannister Day” and where the new sculpture of Edward Bannister will be unveiled.

The Edward Bannister sculpture is the culmination of a two-year collaboration between the Bannister Community Art Project (BCAP) and The Providence Art Club. Bannister was a 19th-century artist of African descent who was a prominent member of the Providence art community, one of the founders of the Providence Art Club, and a significant figure in the history of American landscape painting. The sculpture, by Gage Prentiss, is a bronze life-sized depiction of Bannister sitting on a public bench looking out at the Providence River, while sketching in his sketchbook. Passersby will be able to sit with the sculpture and learn about his life and work. 

“The parade and our wonderful Mayor’s support embody the intent and spirit of this project,” said BCAP Co-Chair Jennifer Davis-Allison. “Having begun as a celebration of Bannister, the artist, through an important public sculpture, BCAP has become a catalyst for much more. It has enlivened dialogue, fostered unique collaborations and engendered a deepening sense of connectivity within and through the RI arts community. We hope to continue to expand and provide a different way of seeing and connecting to our past and present with aspirations for how we might frame a more enriched future through the lens of art.” 

“We are tremendously honored and delighted to be partnering with Mayor Smiley and the City of Providence during this year’s PVDFest,” said BCAP Co-Chair Nancy Gaucher-Thomas. “The fact that the City is proclaiming ‘Edward Mitchell Bannister Day’ to honor this seminal artist of color and our local history is a singular moment for the community. We are anticipating young and old will join us as we sing, dance and celebrate our colorful city of Providence as they join us in our joyful parade.” 

This year’s Grand Marshals are civic leaders dedicated to supporting and elevating Providence’s revered arts culture. Among her many accomplishments, Providence native Helen Baskerville-Dukes is the Founder and Chair of Juneteenth RI, the Executive Director of the Mount Hope Community Center, a playwright, and champion for education and equity. Gonzalo Cuervo is a Providence civic leader, community organizer, writer and arts booster, who serves on the boards of the Providence Cultural Equity Initiative, the Latino Policy Institute, the Roger Williams Park Conservancy, and Teatro ECAS, a performing arts organization he’s supported and helped grow over the past two decades. Together, the 2023 PVDFest Grand Marshals have contributed more than forty years of dedication to civic life.  

“We’re thrilled to include Helen and Gonzalo as Grand Marshals of the PVDFest Parade, and celebrate the very best of Providence with them,” said Director of Art, Culture and Tourism Joe Wilson Jr. “The PVDFest Parade is an expression of the joy and pride we have for Providence’s cultural heritage and its creative champions past and present. Helen and Gonzalo elevate and celebrate all of the voices that reflect our vibrant and diverse community and represent the forces for good that make our beloved city so divine in every way.” 

The PVDFest parade will also include performances by several local artists, including the Providence Drum Troupe, Community MusicWorks, and more. Festival goers are encouraged to join the parade dressed in their best festival flair and prepared to march, sing, and celebrate all the things that make Providence special. 

PVDFest is made possible in large part by the generous sponsors who continue to support Providence’s creative culture year-round, including the Providence Tourism Council, RI Commerce, The Boston Globe Rhode Island, Waste Management, Breeze, ProvPort, Waterson Terminal Services LLC, WPRI, iHeart Media, Delta Dental, Dimeo Construction Company, Rhode Island Energy, RISD, Amica, Fidelity Investments, Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, Cornish Associates, Evolis, First Bristol Corporation/Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites, Johnson & Wales University, BankNewport, The Foundry, PLDO Strategies, Withum, Verizon, Wexford Science & Technology, AARP Rhode Island, Bird Rides, Half Street Group, Matunuck Oyster Bar, Providence Monthly, Public’s Radio, Regency Plaza/Chestnut Hill Realty, RI Monthly, RIPTA. In addition to sponsors, PVDFest relies on the contributions of the hard-working volunteers to make the event a memorable experience for everyone. If you can volunteer for a few hours or a whole day, please sign up here. 

More information about PVDFest will be released in the coming weeks leading up to the waterfront celebration. For more information about PVDFest, please visit PVDFest.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. 

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About PVDFest 

Mayor Brett P. Smiley, the City’s Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Producing Partner FirstWorks will once again host PVDFest, Providence’s signature outdoor arts festival, September 8-10. This year’s festival will bring people from both sides of the Providence River to celebrate what has repeatedly garnered Providence its reputation as the Creative Capital— our artists. We will host three days of musical performances, public art, good eats and curated spectacles on the waterfront and together build community around the things that make our city unique.    

About Bannister Community Art Project 

The Bannister Community Art Project, a collaboration with community leaders and organizations in Rhode Island was initiated to commemorate the life and legacy of the Black artist, Edward Mitchell Bannister, a founding member of the Providence Art Club (PAC). This endeavor has become a catalyst for many programs and activities that speak to who this artist was and the significant contributions that he and his wife, Christiana Carteaux Bannister, made during their lifetimes.  

About Helen Baskerville-Dukes 

Helen Baskerville-Dukes is a native of Providence, Rhode Island. She is a graduate of Katherine Gibbs College and is currently serving as the Executive Director of the Mount Hope Community Center. Helen brings over 20 years of community experience advocating for education and equity. 

Helen is an experienced playwright producing over 15 plays. In 2019, her film ‘Ladies Night’ premiered at the Rhode Island Black Film Festival. She has also created, trademarked and owns the copyright to a new sport called Wallopball, which was featured on WJAR Channel 10. 

Since 2019, she continues to serve as the Chair of the Juneteenth RI. Juneteenth RI, one of RI’s largest festivals. 

About Gonzalo Cuervo 

Gonzalo Cuervo is a proud Providence civic leader, community organizer, and arts booster with a passion for his city and live music. Cuervo serves on the boards of the Providence Cultural Equity Initiative, the Latino Policy Institute, the Roger Williams Park Conservancy, and Teatro ECAS, a performing arts organization he’s supported and helped grow over the past two decades. He’s also a podcaster, writer, and proud member of LitArtsRI. Cuervo’s public service career spans two decades at the local and state levels, where he’s held top posts and opened doors for a generation of young leaders. 

New Opportunity Announced for Downtown Activation on Friday, September 8

PROVIDENCE, RI— Mayor Brett P. Smiley today announced the Afrika Nyaga Drum and Dance Festival, a series of African-culture performances curated by local artist Sidy Maiga for Sunday afternoon at PVDFest on September 10, and a new opportunity for Downtown businesses to activate street spaces for block parties on Friday, September 8.

“I am thrilled to announce an incredible lineup for Sunday afternoon at PVDFest, as well as new opportunities for local businesses to get involved in this year’s festival,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “We want to make this festival something that everyone can participate in and enjoy. Whether you’re a small business looking to welcome extra guests to your space, a local artist and curator like Sidy, or a festival-goer ready to experience new music, performances, and good food—there truly is something for everyone. The Afrika Nyaga Drum Festival is a must-see, bringing once-in-a-lifetime performances to our mainstage.”

On Sunday, September 10, Malian Djembe Master Sidy Maiga is producing his eleventh annual Afrika Nyaga Drum and Dance Festival in collaboration with the Providence Foundation from 2PM-6PM in Providence’s 195 District Park. Maiga has made music at PVDFest since its inception in 2015. This year he is bringing an extraordinary range of artists including some of the biggest names in Malian music to celebrate the African Diaspora that thrives throughout Providence and Rhode Island.

Joining Maiga’s curated performances will be Oumou Sangaré, a Grammy-award winning artist who holds some of the most definitive recordings in the history of contemporary African music. Wunmi is another festival performer joining the line up, often recognized as a major catalyst in bringing Afrobeat to mainstream America. Master Soumy is one of the biggest names in Malian hip-hop and will bring his unique engineering and compositions to his performance. Festival goers will also be able to enjoy performances by Manolo Mairena & La Pura Vida, a New England-based salsa singer and conguero that uniquely fuses together contemporary commercial salsa to Cuban timba, old school charanga and son montuno. The festival will also feature performances by Projetu Batuku, a local, traditional Cape Verdean percussion and dance group, and Haus of Glitter Dance Company, a Providence-based group that performs Contemporary and Traditional West-African/Afrobeats, House, Vogue, Breakdance, Hip Hop, Drag, and more.

“Celebrating each other is elevating each other,” said Sidy Maiga. “I am excited to be uplifting the stories of the African Diaspora with the Providence community.”

In addition to the Sunday lineup, Smiley also announced more opportunities during the PVDFest weekend, including Friday night activations for Downtown businesses. Businesses may now apply for a Special Event permit to host block parties and activate parking lots during PVDFest on Friday, September 8. Applications will be accepted now through August 7 and permits will be granted to businesses under public safety guidelines. The permit allows businesses to remain open until 2AM, with music shut off by 1AM.

“Whether it’s throwing a block party, coming to enjoy the exciting line up of award-winning and local artists that we have curated, or celebrating Providence in a new way, this festival is about uplifting our community, and making it shine,” said Director of Arts, Culture and Tourism Joe Wilson Jr. “I encourage everyone to make plans to be here on September 8th, 9th, and 10th.”

PVDFest is made possible in large part by the generous sponsors who continue to support Providence’s creative culture year-round, including the Providence Tourism Council, RI Commerce, The Boston Globe Rhode Island, Waste Management, Breeze Airways, ProvPort, Waterson Terminal Services LLC, WPRI, iHeart Media, Delta Dental, Dimeo Construction Company, Rhode Island Energy, RISD, Amica, Fidelity Investments, Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, Cornish Associates, Evolis, First Bristol Corporation/Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites, Johnson & Wales University, The Foundry, PLDO Strategies, Withum, Verizon, South Street Landing Parking Garage, AARP Rhode Island, Bird Rides, Half Street Group, Matunuck Oyster Bar, Providence Monthly, Public’s Radio, Regency Plaza/Chestnut Hill Realty, RI Monthly, RIPTA. In addition to sponsors, PVDFest relies on the contributions of the hard-working volunteers to make the event a memorable experience for everyone. If you can volunteer for a few hours or a whole day, please sign up here.

More information about PVDFest will be released in the coming weeks leading up to the waterfront celebration. For more information about PVDFest, please visit PVDFest.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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PVDFest
Mayor Brett P. Smiley, the City’s Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Producing Partner FirstWorks will once again host PVDFest, Providence’s signature outdoor arts festival, September 8-10. This year’s festival will bring people from both sides of the Providence River to celebrate what has repeatedly garnered Providence its reputation as the Creative Capital— our artists. We will host three days of musical performances, public art, good eats and curated spectacles on the waterfront and together build community around the things that make our city unique.

Sidy Maiga
Sidy Maiga is a Djembe Master from Mali. As a teenager, he apprenticed under some of Mali’s most renowned Master Drummers. Sidy has been an active member of the local music scene, playing not only traditional Malian music, but also a fusion of Malian music with Latin, Blues, and Brazilian. His love for sharing his music and culture with the community inspired him to begin Afrika Nyaga, a West Africa Dance and Drum Festival. This festival brings together both local and international musicians and dancers to perform across Rhode Island. Maiga has received the MacColl-Johnson Fellowship (2012), the RISCA Folk Arts Fellowship (2012and 2022). Sidy has performed on stages with many international artists. Sidy has released two albums, Maliden (2011) and Africa United (2014), which features musicians from across the world. He’s now recording his third album. Maiga has since pushed his craft further by completing his degree at Berklee College of Music (2020), where he studied music production, business, and composition. Sidy’s djembe that he had been playing for over 20 years is currently being displayed at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. For more information visit www.sidymaiga.com

Oumou Sangaré
Since the release of her debut album Moussoulou in 1989, there has been no respite for the Malian singer Oumou Sangaré. Notable waymarks on her rich and fruitful journey include some of the most definitive recordings in the history of contemporary African music, all released on the World Circuit label: Ko Sira in 1993, Worotan in 1996 and Seya in 2009 (the latter nominated for a Grammy® in the Best World Music Album category). Sangaré won a Grammy® in 2011 for Imagine in the Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals category, alongside Herbie Hancock, Pink, India Arie, Seal, Konono Nº1 and Jeff Beck. Timbuktu, the first release on her own Oumsang label, is the latest act in this unparalleled musical epic. It consecrates an artist who rose from the poor neighborhoods of Bamako to become a global superstar and universally admired feminist icon. With the powerful aura of a Grace Jones and a Black transgressive icon par excellence, Sangaré has long since broken through the barriers that separate continents and musical styles.

Wunmi
Wunmi’s first professional gig was the solo dancer for the musical phenomenon known as Soul II Soul—her early association with the band solidly established their iconic presence. She toured with WOMAD in UK and Japan as a Solo dancer. Toured the world as Ornette Coleman’s dancer/muse. As a vocalist, she toured the US and the UK with the legendary Roy Ayers, and it is with Roy Ayers that she earned her first songwriting credits. She then toured much of the world on club dates with her newly garnered attention as a diva of underground house. Wunmi’s early recordings were as featured artist on the tracks of some of House music’s reigning producers. Masters at Work, Osunlade, Bugz in the Attic, Pasta Boys—through her reworks of Fela Kuti tracks ‘Expensive Sh*t’ and ‘Zombie’, Wunmi would become a major catalyst in bringing Afro beat and the work of Fela Kuti into the mainstream in America, contributing to such projects as Red Hot and Riot, and New York’s epic Jump n Funk parties. For more information visit: https://onepagelink.com/wunmi

Master Soumy
Master Soumy, whose real name is Ismaïla Doucouré, began exploring his music talents while he was still a kid in 1996 by founding MEGA BEST with friends. He soon became one of the biggest names in the Malian hip-hop movement. The originality of his texts and commitment to justice gave Master Soumy the status of being an accessible rapper to his fans. In addition to being a recognized artist with multiple albums, Master Soumy is also an engineer of sound and a composer who holds a Masters in Business Law from the University of Mali. He has earned numerous awards and distinctions and was decorated with the medal of national merit with bee effigy by the Malian State in September 2016 for his civic engagement through music.

Manolo Mairena & La Pura Vida
Manolo Mairena is a New England based salsa singer and conguero who originally hails from Costa Rica. He counts Oscar D’Leon, Orquesta Reve, and Maraca among his favorite artists. Recently released his album Mi Oportunidad, which features his full potential as a singer. Mairena is active in the Boston scene, having played with La Clave Secreta, Mango Blue, Balaton, and other leading latin and latin jazz groups in the area. His styles has different influences, from straight up contemporary commercial salsa to Cuban timba, from old school charanga to son montuno.
More info here: https://musicdynamicservices.wordpress.com/roster/manolo-mairena/

Projetu Batuku
Projetu Batuku is a traditional Cape Verdean group that has been promoting Cape Verdean culture and heritage throughout New England. They are a local percussion and dance group.

Haus of Glitter Dance Company
The Haus of Glitter Dance Company (based in Providence, RI) works, through movement and choreography, to shift the energetic center of the universe towards Queer Feminist BIPOC Liberation. In the work we share and co-create with audiences, we strive to embody ancestral liberation, healing and love in every step and every breath of our creative process and pedagogy. Our choreography aims to reach beyond the stage and into the streets; into our homes; into our institutions; into our hearts.

At the intersection of Queer-Affirming Feminist BIPoC cultural preservation + spacekeeping, historical intervention, social practice, concert dance, public spectacle, immersive interdisciplinary performance theatre, and protest/performance art, The Haus of Glitter Dance Company primarily performs Contemporary and Traditional West-African/Afrobeats, House, Vogue, Breakdance, Hip Hop, Drag, Theatre of the Oppressed, and loves collaborating with musicians, dancers, installation artists, performance artists, makers, multimedia artists, historians, and activist communities.

The Haus of Glitter Dance Company is a BIPOC affinity space and is also the leadership team for The Haus of Glitter Performance Lab, our current physical location + collective of performance artists. For more Information visit: https://www.hausofglitter.org/home/our-dance-company

Civil rights icon and Grammy Lifetime Achievement award-winner Mavis Staples performing at Innovation Park Saturday, September 9 

PROVIDENCE, RI – Mayor Brett P. Smiley today joined FirstWorks Executive Director Kathleen Pletcher, Director of Art, Culture, Tourism Joe Wilson Jr., Pneuhaus co-founder Matthew Muller, local artists and Providence community members to announce civil rights icon and Grammy Lifetime Achievement award-winner Mavis Staples, in addition to the other exciting musical performances, public art, good eats and curated spectacles festival goers can expect to see September 8-10 at Providence’s signature outdoor arts festival. 

“PVDFest has always been an immersive celebration of the arts, reflective of the talented local artists that are the backbone of our Creative Capital,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “This year we are bringing together neighborhoods, focusing in on the talented artists that are the core of our culture as a city, and using the Providence River to create a unique waterside festival that highlights everything that makes Providence special. We are excited to work with FirstWorks again to produce an unforgettable festival experience.” 

Due to the overwhelming amount of programming that occurs every year in June, the City announced the dates of this year’s festival will be September 8-10. In addition to the date change, this year the festival will be hosted in Innovation District Park along the Providence River. On Saturday, September 9, there will be all-day craft vendors markets along with curated performances in various locations across the festival footprint, leading up to a concert by Providence’s very own Flawless, and then a once-in-a-lifetime performance by gospel legend Mavis Staples at 6PM. Immediately following Staples’ riverside performance, the celebration will continue into the night with a full lighting by WaterFire, offering an experience you can only find in Providence. On Sunday, Sidy Maiga is producing his eleventh annual Afrika Nyaga drum and dance festival celebrating African culture and the diaspora in collaboration with Providence Foundation at PVDFest. Throughout festival weekend there will be food trucks celebrating gastronomic traditions from around the globe.  

“Festivals are in FirstWorks DNA. We are excited to partner once again with the City of Providence to create extraordinary experiences and memories in this newest evolution of the renowned festival we all love,” said FirstWorks Executive Artistic Director Kathleen Pletcher. “We are honored to have such a sustained partnership with the ACT Team. This year the Providence waterfront will be aglow like never before with world-class music and astonishing spectacles, culminating in a full WaterFire lighting on Saturday night. The weekend will prove once again why people come from across the world to celebrate local artists at PVDFest each year.” 

Since debuting in 2015, PVDFest has featured over 4,600 artists, performers, and curators, and has brought in hundreds of thousands of attendees during the festival weekend, providing artists opportunities to showcase their art. Returning to PVDFest this year for their eighth year is Pnuehaus, a Rhode Island-based interdisciplinary art and design studio that specializes in ephemeral art installations. At this year’s festival they will offer installations that deeply engages intrinsic qualities of materials to express their physical and dynamic nature.  

“We’re honored to have been a part of PVDFest since 2016,” said Pnuehaus co-founder Matt Muller. “It’s so great to see Providence come together and all the artists who can show their amazing work. From the music to vendors to visual arts, it’s a highlight of the arts in Providence.” 

The PVDFest footprint will be alive with performances, activities and experiences on Friday, September 8 from 5PM until 8PM, Saturday, September 9 from 12PM to 7PM, and Sunday 12PM to 6PM.  Applications for craft vendors, performers and visual artists will remain open through June 20 and sponsorship applications will remain open.  

“The innovative twists we are adding to this year’s festival exemplify why Providence has become a global destination for the arts,” said Director of Art, Culture, and Tourism Joe Wilson Jr. “We are working hand in hand with the city’s talented artists to showcase our arts culture in a way that has never been done before.” 

This year’s PVDFest is made possible with support from the following sponsors to date: Providence Tourism Council, The Boston Globe Rhode Island, ProvPort, Waterson Terminal Services LLC, iHeart Media, WPRI Media Group, Delta Dental, Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, Cornish Associates, First Bristol Corporation/Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites, The Foundry, Withum, Half Street Group, Matunuck Oyster Bar, Providence Monthly, Public’s Radio, Regency Plaza/Chestnut Hill Realty, Rhode Island Monthly. 

More information about the announced headliner performances can be found in the press kit and a full schedule of events will be released in the weeks leading up to the festival. For additional information on ways to participate in PVDFest 2023, visit pvdfest.com.  

Providence’s Signature Arts Festival to Close Summer 2023

PROVIDENCE, RI – Mayor Brett P. Smiley and Director of the Department of Art, Culture, Tourism (ACT) Joe Wilson Jr. today announced the return of PVDFest, Providence’s signature arts festival, happening September 8-10, 2023. PVDFest 2023 will bring the City together once again to celebrate Providence’s world-renowned artistic, cultural, and culinary communities.

“PVDFest the moment where we as a community celebrate all the creativity, uniqueness, and diversity that resides here in the Creative Capital,” said Mayor Brett P. Smiley. “I am excited to see our local artists bring their creative energy, world-renown talents and innovative ideas as we mark the festival’s 8th year. I hope to see everyone join us with their family and friends!”

Since debuting in 2015, PVDFest has featured over 4,800 artists, performers, and curators, and has brought in 596,000+ attendees during the festival weekend. PVDFest continues to grow each year, providing new and exciting ways to bring people together through the arts and embracing both local and global talent in a way that is uniquely Providence.

“Belonging, experimentation, and radical joy are three important values at the core of what our Department does day in and day out,” said Director of the Department of Art, Culture & Tourism Joe Wilson Jr.  “It follows then that PVDFest embraces these values, year after year, helping us realize our collective vision of Providence as a global destination for the arts, where all our neighbors celebrate diverse cultures and artistic experiences. This year’s festival will be one for the books!”

Beginning today, artists, performers, vendors, and volunteers may visit our relaunched website to initiate interest in participating in the festival via the appropriate interest form(s). The forms will be routed to ACT for processing and applicants will be contacted when festival planning gets underway.

Additional information about PVDFest will be released in the coming weeks. For more information about PVDFest, please visit PVDFest.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for many more exciting announcements in the near future.