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Welcome to Providence, a city founded on the pillars of tolerance and respect of individual beliefs and where those principles are still valued. While we are proud of many things about our home — our vibrant neighborhoods, our top-rated restaurants, eclectic arts scene and our beautiful architecture — it is our people that truly make our city special. That includes our thriving, diverse and dynamic LGBTQ+ community, whose influence may be found in every corner of our city. Come explore all that Providence has to offer.
While Providence celebrates inclusive fun year-round, June features one of New England's largest Pride festivals, Rhode Island PrideFest. The event takes over the I-195 District Park every June for a day-long celebration featuring a variety of activities, including live music performances, drag shows, dance parties, vendor booths and much more. Hosted by Rhode Island Pride, the day provides a welcoming environment where everyone can celebrate their relationships and identity.
The festival typically draws a large and diverse crowd, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, allies, families and supporters. It's a joyful and colorful event that promotes acceptance, visibility and solidarity within the community and beyond.
And don't think the party ends just because the sun goes down. The Illuminated Night Parade lights up Downtown Providence as it winds through the city streets among thousands of spectators. Stake out a prime viewing spot by the Providence Performing Arts Center for a procession of dazzling floats, performing artists and marching groups.
Downtown PVD's The Dark Lady is a popular nightclub known for its drag shows and energetic atmosphere. The Alley Cat is another spot worth checking out, offering a cozy ambiance and occasional themed nights. EGO Providence is known for its welcoming environment and lively dance floor, while The Stable is the perfect weekend recovery destination during its weekly Sangria Sundays.
And, of course, you can't forget about longstanding city staple Mirabar. Believe it or not, Mirabar's location today on Elbow Street is its fifth home in the capital city and seventh overall. The bar first opened in Woonsocket in 1947 and holds the distinction as Rhode Island's oldest continually operating gay bar. It's also one of the oldest in the country. Today, it's remained close to its roots and reputation as a safe and welcoming place for everyone while contributing to the city's vibrant nightlife.
"Providence's celebrated dining scene, vibrant arts and culture, and beautifully maintained historic landmarks make Providence a captivating and inspiring place to visit."
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September 23, 2026
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This year, Christmas is a DRAG! Get ready for some holiday hilarity as Haley Star and LaDiva Jonz bring an evening of cheeky drag comedy to the Stadium’s Marquee Room. You’ll want to be on the naughty list because Haley and LaDiva have filled Santa’s sack with fierce, festive fun!A Marquee Room event. Seating is limited.Adult Content.Tickets: $31
Yes. Providence was founded on principles of tolerance and respect for individual beliefs, and its thriving LGBTQ+ community is part of every corner of the city, from nightlife to arts and dining.
PrideFest takes place every June at I-195 District Park in downtown Providence; the 2027 festival is on June 19. The day-long celebration features live music, drag shows, dance parties and vendor booths.
It’s PrideFest’s nighttime parade of lit-up floats, performers and marching groups through downtown Providence. For a prime viewing spot, head to the area near the Providence Performing Arts Center.
Popular spots include Mirabar, EGO for dancing, The Stable for drag and Sangria Sundays, The Alley Cat, The Dark Lady and the Providence Eagle, most within walking distance of each other downtown.
Mirabar, which opened in Woonsocket in 1947, is Rhode Island’s oldest continually operating gay bar and one of the oldest in the country. It’s now on Elbow Street in downtown Providence.
This week we're getting ready for Easter with a delicious Cheddar Apple Bacon Scone from Vesta Bakery in Westerly. Allyson Mansfield, the pastry chef and owner of Vesta Bakery, shows us how to put together this sweet and savory scone. This week we're getting ready for Easter with a delicious Cheddar Apple Bacon Scone from Vesta Bakery in Westerly. Allyson Mansfield, the pastry chef and owner of Vesta Bakery, shows us how to put together this sweet and savory scone.
Read More Read MoreMiso Mozza is a modern Japanese-Italian fusion restaurant located in the heart of Federal Hill. Our menu brings together house made pastas, fresh sushi, and thoughtfully crafted dishes that highlight both Italian comfort and Japanese precision. Miso Mozza is a modern Japanese-Italian fusion restaurant located in the heart of Federal Hill. Our menu brings together house made pastas, fresh sushi, and thoughtfully crafted dishes that highlight both Italian comfort and Japanese precision.
Read More Read MoreIn Providence, where the legacy of the slave trade runs alongside centuries of vibrant Black community and culture, there's no shortage of ways to mark the occasion of Juneteenth In Providence, where the legacy of the slave trade runs alongside centuries of vibrant Black community and culture, there's no shortage of ways to mark the occasion of Juneteenth
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