Providence as an Arts Destination

By Mayor Jorge Elorza

Tourism is one of the largest industries in Providence. Here in the Creative Capital we have so much to offer visitors. There are many wonderful things to enjoy and explore throughout our diverse neighborhoods. Music, art, culture and cuisine are in our DNA. From international film festivals to concerts in the park, gallery openings to the world- renowned magic of WaterFire Providence— you will find that there is truly something for everyone here.

We are proud to have hosted the first ever Providence International Arts Festival this month in downtown Providence.

Over the past few months, the City’s Department of Art, Culture + Tourism and FirstWorks has worked with local artists of all disciplines, arts organizations, cultural associations, and community groups to create a can’t miss spectacular experience for all. Artists and guests from all over the world gathered here in Providence to create, play, sing, and explore our Creative Capital.

With the large imprint of this festival, it brought a major economic boost for participating and surrounding vendors while showcasing the talent and creative nature of our residents.

We had 18 participating venues, 500 artists including international guests and locals and 30 public art projects for visitors to enjoy. The festival was truly something to remember.

Creative place making intentionally uses arts and culture to bring cross-sector partners together to transform places. This festival used the city’s neighborhood as its stage and the creative culture as here as a market to draw in thousands of visitors from across the globe. My vision for this festival is that it becomes an annual phenomenon for visitors and residents to enjoy for years to come.

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