PVDFest Coming Back At Full Force For 1st Time Since Pandemic

PROVIDENCE, RI — Festival lovers rejoice, because PVDFest is coming back to the city at full force on June 10 to 12.

This year's festival marks the first time since 2019 that artists from around the block and across the globe will meet in Providence’s Downtown neighborhood, coming together once again to celebrate the city's artistic, cultural, and culinary communities.

"So much has changed since we last danced in the streets of Downtown," Mayor Jorge Elorza said in a statement. "After two very difficult years, this year’s PVDFest is the opportunity we have all been waiting for. We will meet downtown for three days of unforgettable performances and installations, continuing our tradition of elevating local talent and supporting the exchange of creative ideas. Our creative community needs our support now more than ever, and I know Providence is ready to come together and celebrate."

Since its creation in 2015, PVDFest has featured over 4,400 artists, performers, and curators, and brought more than 481,000 attendees into the heart of Downtown. This year's festival will once again be put on by founding partner FirstWorks, a nonprofit.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, PVDFest was reimagined and scaled down. The festivals in 2020 and 2021 were decentralized, offering smaller outdoor events to keep people safe and try to keep the festival spirit alive. PVDFest encourages participants to experience what Providence means to them — while exploring art around every corner.

"Providence is open! PVDFest is a great opportunity to welcome back old friends and make new ones,"said City Council President John J. Igliozzi. "Visit our historic and culturally diverse city, check out our eclectic arts community, and dine in our world-class restaurants. You will not be disappointed."

Featured musicians and artists this year include Grammy Award-winning Rebirth Brass Band, trumpeter/vocalist Kermit Ruffins, eight-time Grammy Award-winner Eddie Palmieri, Squonk, Sidy Maiga and Hit La Rosa.

"FirstWorks is delighted to transform downtown Providence into a multistage arts extravaganza for all ages," said Kathleen Pletcher, the executive artistic director for FirstWorks. "Families can share the joy as they animate giant puppet hands as big as a house. Everyone can dance in the streets to an amazing array of musical wonders: from Friday evening’s New Orleans get-down bands to Latin Jazz legend Eddie Palmieri’s Salsa Orchestra. Artists and audiences are brimming with energy to create indelible memories together. This will be a festival of pure joy!"

City officials said more information about PVDFest will be released in the coming weeks.