I have been attending WaterFire with my husband and our 11-year-old son for the last several years that we have lived in the Boston MetroWest area. Our favorite part is the lighting ceremony: my son enjoys watching the boats that go back and forth stocking all the braziers with more wood.
We love walking along the riverbank, enjoying all the sights and the sweet aroma from the pine logs always reminds us of camping and s’mores. It is a surreal experience: Downtown Providence and Waterplace Park feel incredibly Venetian with the gondolas and the amazing music from around the world.
But this year my 87-year-old papa, who lives in India, was visiting us for a few weeks. Since my mom passed away, he has had a rough couple of years. So we wanted him to have the best time while he was here with us by visiting all our favorite New England spots–including WaterFire.
Even though he is young at heart, he has limited mobility for long walking and prolonged standing. While researching if wheelchairs are allowed at WaterFire, I came across the amazing Access Boat program. I could not believe what I was reading: a free boat ride for those who are unable to enjoy WaterFire due to mobility and other issues? How thoughtful and inclusive!
My papa loved the whole experience of being out on the water, being so close to the bonfires, and loved chatting with our super sweet guide, Ken. He said it was one of the most memorable things he has experienced in the 87 years of his life! I have to agree that it is definitely one of a kind.
Seeing how many visitors attend from near and far is amazing. WaterFire is such a wonderful event that brings communities together, helps local businesses, and is an excellent way to enjoy the city and downtown. It is an all-in-one experience: cultural, social, culinary, musical, shopping, and sightseeing, and a visual treat for sure!
When prompted with questions to inspire this blog post, I was asked how I would describe WaterFire in three words. I responded: “Surreal! Magical! Must-see!”– with exclamation marks included. I emphatically hope absolutely everyone has the chance to experience WaterFire.
Arts experiences and events should be inclusive of everyone, and WaterFire’s Access Boat program is an admirable example of that. But WaterFire Providence needs your support to ensure they can continue to provide this free, accessible event for our whole community.
Can we count on you to join us? Can we count on you to help bring transformative, world-class arts experiences to our whole community?
