Saturday, October 3 (Partial Lighting)

Saturday, October 3rd Details

Partial Lighting
Sunset (6:23 pm) – 10:00 pm
Onshore programming and vendors open at 5:30 pm

Basin Lighting Supported By:

Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation

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WaterFire Providence announces a partial lighting on Saturday, October 3, made possible through the support of the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation. This lighting is part of Gloria Gemma’s Flames of Hope celebration, which marks 20 years of partnership between the Foundation and WaterFire. The evening will share a story of hope, strength, courage, and determination, with fires burning in Memorial Park and at the Michael S. Van Leesten Pedestrian Bridge from shortly after sunset until 10:00 PM.

“The Gloria Gemma Foundation has proudly partnered with WaterFire Providence on the Flames of Hope celebration for the past 20 years. Each year, we look forward to this event because it not only reflects the mission of Gloria Gemma but also embodies what WaterFire is about—creating a sense of community and bringing people together. That is truly what this entire weekend is all about,” said Bryan Sawyer, Chief Operating Officer of the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation.

The Lighting
At 6:43 PM, WaterFire boats will travel from the Crawford Street Bridge to light the twelve braziers in Memorial Park and the five braziers on the abutments of the Michael S. Van Leesten Pedestrian Bridge by 195 District Park.

Illuminations of Life Torch Ceremony
Beginning at 6:45 PM, 150 breast cancer survivors and their loved ones will gather on the Crawford Street Bridge and carry torches along the river to 195 District Park, honoring those lost to breast cancer and those still fighting. The procession ends with a choreographed ballet performance by Shauna Fox Marceau as the braziers at the Michael S. Van Leesten Pedestrian Bridge are lit, while the braziers in Memorial Park are lit at the same time.

Flames of Hope at 195 District Park
The celebration continues at 195 District Park with a free concert, food, and dancing. Two ticketed events will also take place in the park.

Starry, Starry Night
The beloved installation returns to Memorial Park near the Crawford Street Bridge. Wish on a star or dedicate a luminaria candle lantern to add your light to the evening.

WaterFire Phone Booth
The iconic WaterFire Phone Booth can be found in Memorial Park. Step inside to leave a message for WaterFire’s future.

Music and Performance
Rhode Island–based singer-songwriter Music By Mel performs on the College Street Acoustic Stage beginning at 5:30 PM.

Arts and Makers
Artist and maker vendors line College Street from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM, including Pourever Creations, SepiaLepus Illustration, Joseph Mushipi, and Celeste Diaz Falzone.

WaterFire Marketplace
Visit the WaterFire Marketplace on College Street to support WaterFire with a donation or a purchase of locally designed jewelry, glassware, gifts, and apparel. More information and merchandise stations are on either side of the Michael S. Van Leesten Pedestrian Bridge.

Food
Food vendors on College Street include Sarcastic Sweets, Newport Chowder, and Good Vibes Beverages.

For the latest information, visit waterfire.org and follow WaterFire Providence on social media @waterfireprov.