Starts at Sunset - Thursday, July 25

 Please join us for the second Starts At Sunset event of 2024 on Thursday, July 25 supported by the Providence Tourism Council (PTC). Starts at Sunset started in 2023 and is a community gathering on the Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Pedestrian Bridge.  This unique activation invites artists and observers to experience a night of immersive placemaking set against the backdrop of a picturesque sunset. WaterFire volunteers will be illuminating the bridge with the glow of five braziers.

Starts at Sunset event takes place on Thursday, July 25, and will include programming, live music, and art activations along the bridge beginning at 7:30 PM. Sunset is at 8:10 PM, the five braziers will be lit at 8:15 PM and burn until 10:00 PM. 

The bridge’s lower deck will be transformed into a dedicated performance area, hosting acoustic music and other performances that will accompany the event’s overall ambiance. Mel, a rock n’ roll and soul singer-songwriter will be taking the stage to perform at 7:30 PM. Local poet, Charlene D’Sao Nicolau will be sharing their works and creativity on the stage throughout the evening as well. 

WaterFire merchandise will be available for purchase at both entrances to the bridge. Guests can pick up the latest WaterFire swag and are encouraged to donate at these stands as well.

Artists from near and far are invited to gather with their sketch pads and easels to draw and/or paint the scenes of the city.
In addition to the activation and gathering of artists on the bridge, there will be a variety of push carts offering tasty treats organized by the Providence Parks Department including  The Guild Beer Garden which will be located in 195 District Park on the cityside of the bridge and Tizzy K’s Cereal Ice Cream which will be open on the east side of the bridge.