News Summary

Providence, Rhode Island, will be transformed this weekend by the inaugural ‘Downtown Celebrates Summer’ festival. With over 70 local restaurants participating, the event features unique culinary experiences, cultural exhibitions, and vibrant community activities. Attendees can enjoy guided tours, kayak rentals, and various performances, including traditional dances and ghost tours. The festival celebrates the end of Providence Restaurant Weeks and highlights the rich cultural landscape of the city, promising a fun-filled weekend for all ages.

Providence to Host “Downtown Celebrates Summer” Festival Featuring Cultural Events and Culinary Delights this Weekend

Providence, Rhode Island, is set to transform into a vibrant hub of culture and culinary delights on July 19-20 with the inaugural “Downtown Celebrates Summer” festival. This exciting event coincides with the final day of Providence Restaurant Weeks, featuring over 70 local restaurants offering special menus and prix fixe deals.

One of the highlights of the festival is a guided culinary journey called the Downcity Providence Food Tour, which begins at noon on July 19. Participants can indulge in a culinary experience for $79 as they explore the diverse food scene in downtown Providence. Additionally, the RISD Museum will unveil a new exhibition titled “Liz Collins: Motherlode,” showcasing the work of New York-based artist Liz Collins. Free admission to the RISD Museum will be available on Sunday, July 20, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the latest cultural offerings.

Festival-goers can also take guided tours of the Lippitt House Museum, renowned for its intricately decorated Victorian rooms, providing a glimpse into historical aesthetics. In the evening, attendees can experience ghost tours through Providence’s haunted East Side, blending history with thrilling stories of the past.

The festival coincides with the ongoing FringePVD Fest, which is New England’s largest fringe festival running from July 13-26. This vibrant fest showcases community dance classes, performances, and busking throughout various downtown locations over the weekend. A notable event on July 20 is the Downtown Park Wayfinding Kickoff, featuring the unveiling of 200 new banners along the Providence Riverfront, celebrating the city’s spirit and culture. The kickoff event runs from noon to 7 p.m. and will include performances and public art displays.

Families and outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to free kayak rentals along the Providence and Woonasquatucket Rivers, making it easier to appreciate the beautiful water landscapes. Interactive activities are also planned throughout the festival, including city-building activities for children and giant bubble demonstrations, ensuring fun for all ages.

Cultural performances will be a significant aspect of the festival, with flamenco dance workshops, traditional Chinese lion dancing, Laotian dance, and free bachata classes enriching the diverse arts scene. Another highlight will be the Puerto Rican Bay Fest, Rhode Island’s largest celebration of Puerto Rican culture, taking place on July 20 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at India Point Park. This event will feature live music, food, and family-friendly activities, further showcasing the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

For a unique experience, Venetian gondola rides will be available along the Providence Riverwalk, offering attendees a picturesque view of the waterway. Twilight river cruises will also be offered in the evening, providing complimentary wine from local Gooseneck Vineyards, enhancing the overall ambiance of relaxation and enjoyment.

The Providence Flea will return to District Park on Sunday, July 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring over 75 local vendors selling vintage items and artisan goods. This event contributes to the festival’s goal of showcasing Providence’s diverse cultural landscape and its reputation as a prime destination for food, arts, and entertainment.

With an array of events scheduled, the “Downtown Celebrates Summer” festival promises to be an unforgettable weekend in Providence. More detailed information about individual events and ticketing is available at GoProvidence.com.

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Additional Resources

• What’s Up Newp: Downtown Celebrates Summer Festival
• Providence Journal: Summer Festivals in Rhode Island
• Fun 107: Providence Juneteenth Waterfire Lighting
• Business Wire: United Natural Foods Celebrates Retailers
• Google Search: Providence Rhode Island Summer Events