Providence, Rhode Island’s signature event, PVDFest, takes over the city from June 7 to 10, shutting down traffic downtown and making way for 1,000 artists to perform. An estimated 75,000 participants have attended PVDFest in the last few years.
“We think of our city as a stage, as a canvas,” said Mayor Jorge Elorza. “We’re putting the artists first and bringing the audience to them.” It’s a homegrown effort—70% of the funds were privately raised this year—and one that brings locals into the street.
“This is unbeatable people-watching. I love the dancing in the street aspect,” said Elorza, who has traditionally led the parade, tambourine in hand.