Starts At Sunset, a community gathering on the Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Pedestrian Bridge is supported by the Providence Tourism Council (PTC). 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.
“Thanks to the generous sponsorship from the Providence Tourism Council, we are thrilled to bring back Starts at Sunset for a second year,” said Ed Cabral. “Support from our sponsors is essential, especially as WaterFire continues to seek additional funding to host community events. Their contributions ensure we can provide enriching experiences and significantly impact the local economy by bringing visitors to the city of Providence.”
The First Starts at Sunset event will take place on Thursday, June 20 with programming beginning at 8:00 PM including live music and art activations along the bridge. The five braziers will be lit at 8:41 PM and burn until 10:00 PM. June 20 marks the date of the Summer Solstice. Providence residents are encouraged to join in celebrating as the longest day of the year transitions into a beautiful full-moon sunset. Enjoy the magical combination of city views and the wonder of the natural world from the Providence Pedestrian Bridge.
2024 Starts at Sunset Schedule
Thursday, June 20
Summer Solstice Celebration
7:30 – 10:00 pm
Featuring: Providence Drum Troop, Olivia Dolphin, @BubbleManRI – Matthew Peterson, The Guild Beer Garden, Tizzy K’s Cereal Ice Cream, and (Bar)re Bell and Yoga (from 6-7 pm in 195 District Park)
Thursday, July 25
7:30 – 10:00 pm
Featuring: 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.
Thursday, September 12
6:30 – 9:00 pm
Featuring: Tori Jae, a multilingual pop/rock singer-songwriter from Fall River, MA will be taking the stage to perform starting at 6:30 PM. PVD Poetry will be on the bridge writing poems on the spot and sharing their work with the community during the event. Skyscrapers will be on the bridge with telescopes observing the night sky and sharing information about their programs. DESIGNXRI will be on the bridge with information about their upcoming Design Week RI which runs from September 13 to September 20.
“The Providence Tourism Council is thrilled to once again sponsor the Starts with Sunset series as we activate our Providence River and the 195 District Park in new ways. We are excited to see this program grow in bringing artists, businesses, residents, and visitors together for programming around the Pedestrian Bridge,” says Alexis Gorriaran, Chair and Commissioner of the Providence Tourism Council.
About the author
Tim Blankenship, newly appointed Director of Special Projects, is a 22-year veteran of WaterFire and a steadfast advocate for the organization’s mission to unite the community through shared artistic experiences. Having worked across multiple departments, including a decade in production and recent years with the creative services team, Tim brings unmatched institutional knowledge to his new role. He will focus on strengthening internal systems and supporting the creation of new visitor experiences at both the downtown installation and the WaterFire Arts Center.
I’m organizing a group for the Aug 31st show. Can you suggest a meeting place for us. Thank you- Maureen
Hi Maureen, the WaterFire Marketplace on Canal Street (between Steeple and Washington Streets) is the central hub of the event and is a good waypoint to gather groups before heading off the explore the rest of the event. Are all the members of your group travelling together or driving separately? You can learn more about parking and transportation options in our “Plan Your Trip” guide.