Since 2015, PVDFest has brought thousands of people together for a one-of-a-kind celebration, with truly unmatched and unforgettable experiences. From public art installations to vibrant musical performances, to innovative food and drink offerings, and more, this family-friendly festival has something for everyone. And while the festival’s show-stopping headliners deservedly receive a lot of attention, the City’s local artists and hometown favorites are what make PVDFest uniquely Providence.
“Providence isn’t the Creative Capital on its own, and PVDFest serves as a tried-and-true outlet for the City’s creative energy,” said Mayor Jorge O. Elorza. “Our local artists are this festival’s DNA, enriching our city year-round with their diverse talents and important perspectives. I have no doubt that this year’s PVDFest will once again be one for the books, and I hope everyone joins us with their family and friends.”
Local artists will perform eclectic music from a wide variety of genres and flavors, including stylings from singer Alexus Lee and her band, and a mashup of musical genres, based in hip-hop with elements of pop, soul, Caribbean & R&B music, from An Artist Named Flizzl. The festival will also feature vibrant music and dance by Amaré Beyan and the sweet sounds of retro-pop with Alsarah & The Nubatones of Brooklyn, NY.
This year’s festival will also feature a stage dedicated to the magnificent art of dance, featuring folks like DJ Spinn from the electronic collective Teklife for an outdoor, interactive party. Other exciting performances will include the Middle Eastern belly-dancing wonder of The Azama Dance Company and the Bollywood rhythms of Dance BFF. The art of “Banig,” or Filipino mat wrapping, will be presented by Bhen Alan, accompanied by a performance by Filipino-American Community Dancers. All of this talent will be joined by Chicago dance group The Era Footwork Crew, who have pioneered the battle dance known as “Chicago footwork.”
Maybe dancing in the streets and music aren’t your thing? Fear not. Other hometown performers participating in the festival represent a wide range of talents, including unique performances by Amy the Mime, magical sleight of hand by Amazing Ivan, and artistic demonstrations by Gather Glass Blowing Studio that will blow your mind. See what we did there?
PVDFest is a family-friendly festival, with fun for all ages in all places. Squonk returns to PVDFest with their latest outdoor spectacle, Hand to Hand; a joyous, participatory event propelled by their irresistible music and signature giant purple puppet hands, each the size of a house and rigged like a sailing ship. Additionally, the Community Libraries of Providence are bringing CLPVD Library Fun, featuring fun activities and library information, and Circus Dynamics will offer a fun, interactive, fast paced, roaming variety show, complete with face-painting.
“PVDFest shines a bright light on the amazing talent we have here in Providence,” said Lizzie Araujo, Director of Art, Culture + Tourism. “I hope you’ll come join us for three days of performances and fun as we celebrate being back together again.”
Finally, look out for the festivals within the festival at PVDFest. On Sunday, June 12, bring your family and friends to the showcase of incredible music, dance and drums of Africa and the diaspora at the 10th Annual Afrika Nyaga Drum and Dance Festival. On June 11-12 at the Rink downtown, join thousands of participants in honoring the spire of fire “chama da Portugalidade,” a cultural ceremony bridging tradition, values, and instilling community pride during the Day of Portugal Festival. This will truly be a weekend of community, culture, and celebration!
PVDFest relies on the contributions of the hard-working volunteers to make the event a memorable experience for everyone. Be a part of the magic by volunteering for a few hours or a whole day this year by signing up today.
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 weeks ahead.
And meet us outside for the comeback!