Saturday, May 11 - Partial lighting

Partial Lighting in Waterplace Basin
Sunset ( 7:55 pm ) – 10:00 pm
Onshore programming and vendors open at 6:30 pm
Supported by Governor’s Office, Always Learning Rhode Island, National Governors Association, Rhode Island Department of Education in celebration of Learn365RI

The lighting will include a procession into the basin with torches held by high school and college students from around the state. Incredabowl, Matilda Empanadas, and Pam’s Grille on the Go food trucks will be located on Finance Way for visitors to enjoy. 

Beginning at 6:30 p.m., an educational Resource Fair will be held in the basin with representatives from Learn365RI / Always Learning RI, Litter-Free Rhode Island, Boys and Girls Clubs of Rhode Island, Rhode Island YMCA’s, Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner / RI Reconnect, University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, Community College of Rhode Island, RI Afterschool Network, Providence Promise, Onward We Learn, Camp RYSE, Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families and Rhode Island Department of Health.

At 7:00 p.m. there will be a variety of musical performances on the Basin Stage including a performance of the National Anthem by a student from Hope High School, the Smithfield High School Chorus, and the Achievement First Cheer Team. This portion of the evening will be MC’d by Commissioner of Education, Angélica Infante-Green.

Following the performances there will be a speaking program on the Basin Stage featuring remarks from Governor McKee, Commissioner of Education Angélica Infante-Green, and Senator Jack Reed. The speaking program will go right into the lighting ceremony.

WaterFire Ambassador + Merchandise Station will be open in front of the Basin Stage for visitors to donate to keep the fires burning. Shop + support with a purchase of locally designed WaterFire-inspired apparel and gifts.“By embracing a year-round approach to learning, we are reaffirming our commitment to providing all students with the resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive,” said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “We thank Governor McKee, municipal leaders, and our community partners for their efforts in support of our students and families, and look forward to uplifting this important work at WaterFire.”