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Parade

Photo of performers in a parade in Providence

3:00PM Start Time
Route: Washington Street starting at Empire and ending at City Hall Main Stage

Three arts champions have been named PVDFest Parade Grand Marshals this year.  

  • Anjel Newman, a Black American artist, creative director, and educator from Rhode Island, who specializes in using design principles to transform organizations with a focus on empathy, storytelling, and social justice. She serves as Co-Executive and Youth Program Director at AS220, teaches art and social justice, and is a member of the PPSD School Board. 
  • Chachi Carvalho, a talented emcee, song writer, poet, and entrepreneur who has performed for and captivated many PVDFest audiences over the years. He is the owner of We Own The Masters LLC. and co-owner of Beatbox Digital Recording Studio in Pawtucket. He is the founder and artistic director of the Culture Shock music festival and annual community celebration. 
  • Rodney Davis, a leading community champion and LGBTQ+ activist who has served for more than twenty years as co-chair and president of Rhode Island Pride. Rodney has also served in leadership roles for the Rhode Island Alliance, and has personally and professionally supported numerous organizations that promote social justice and community advancement.  

Parade Participants (Subject to Change)

  • Extraordinary Rendition Band with Grand Marshalls Chachi Carvalo, Anjel Newman, Rodney Davis, Lt. Governor Sabina Matos, Mayor Brett Smiley, and ACT Director Joe Wilson, Jr.
  • RAMP
  • The Boston Globe
  • King EeSy
  • Eunice Belly Dance
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters
  • RI Kung Fu & Lion Dance Club
  • Rip GALIANO
  • Rios de Agua Viva
  • Christian Miss
  • Sirr Jones
  • Amy the Mime
  • Coyote Brass Band
  • LBM Heavy
  • Society Art Collective
  • Selena Mars
  • The Providence Drum Troupe

If you’d like to participate in the 2024 PVDFest Parade contact Director of Special Projects Rebecca Noon at [email protected]

NOTE: This is a people-powered parade. No motorized vehicles and no bicycles. All forms of wheelchairs are welcome.