WaterFire – the multisensory experience of crackling flames, evocative music and art amidst a backdrop of a calm river and vibrant city life – has become the signature attraction of downtown Providence.
The relationship between WaterFire and the restaurant and hotel community in downtown Providence has strengthened over the 15 years since WaterFire was created by Barnaby Evans. The economic benefit to the hospitality industry in the city and state from the influx of WaterFire visitors is tremendous. According to a study by former University of Rhode Island professor Timothy J. Tyrrell – now with the University of Arizona, the long-term economic impact of a WaterFire season on Providence alone is $40.5 million.
While the full lightings of the 100 braziers installed in the river just upstream from Hemenway’s and extending to Waterplace Park and its cluster of restaurants are most popular, the partial lightings attract crowds as well. The partial WaterFires take place in Waterplace Park and are sometimes extended down the river just past Café Nuovo. Eight full lightings and five partial WaterFires are scheduled for this season, which lasts until October 20. It is well-known that restaurant patrons find their experience is made exponentially more enjoyable when dining out in the city on a WaterFire night. Evans’ innovative work has also become close to the hearts of Providence’s restaurateurs.
The restaurant and hotel community underwrites the production of at least one full WaterFire each season. This year, the support of the downtown restaurateurs and hoteliers extended the June schedule. The businesspeople also come together to host fundraising events and partial lightings during the off-season. It is important to note that WaterFire is funded primarily by the generosity of its donors and sponsors. As Evans puts it, “WaterFire is always presented for free on a public stage, which is unusual for most arts groups. We, by the nature of WaterFire, do not even have a ticket to sell.”
For the June 12 lighting sponsored by the restaurateurs and hoteliers, they were asked for their reflections on the WaterFire experience. All expressed thoughts that went beyond the economic benefit their businesses received.
Christian Lindberg, general manager of The Melting Pot restaurant at Providence Place has been a WaterFire neighbor for several years, dating back to his days at the helm of Ruth’s Chris Steak House at the basin at Waterplace Park. He said, “We often speak of the beauty of WaterFire in our narrative, but seldom have the opportunity to describe it as what it has simply come to be to the many restaurants in the city: a great gift.”
At the Providence Marriott Downtown, guests can have a sample of WaterFire even before the main event. Jennifer Dahler, destination/online marketing manager said, “Our guests enjoy sipping a cool cocktail by a fire pit out at AQUA before heading out to WaterFire. Our hotel associates truly enjoy sharing the story of WaterFire with our guests. It’s what makes Providence special.”
The management of the Capital Grille said, “We’re proud to be a part of WaterFire and contribute to the beauty of downtown Providence.”
The funds can be used to purchase equipment, construct or rehabilitate business space or as working capital. The money cannot be used to pay expenses incurred before the loan is granted, according to information provided by the city. Money also cannot be used to pay off existing debt or for personal expenses.
WaterFire continues to be a spectacular event that shines a spotlight on Providence and the entire state. As Evans said, “The light we kindle at WaterFire illuminates our entire city, just as it also speaks to our future.” •
Bruce Newbury’s “Dining Out” food and wine talk radio show is heard Saturdays and Sundays on WPRV-AM 790 and stations throughout New England. He can be reached by e-mail at bruce@brucenewbury.com.
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