In a citynotedfor itsvibrant artsand culturalcommunity,noevent shines brighter thanWaterFire.Thisseriesofmore than100 bonfires installedonthe three riversofdowntownProvidenceenticeswith aromaticwoodsmoke, flickering firelight, andenchantingmusic.WhileWaterFire occurs several times amonthfromMay to October,each lighting hasaunique personality, featuring anything froman outdoor ballroomto live gargoylesto fire- eaters.Best of all, it’scompletely free.
ELEMENTAL ENTERTAINMENT:WaterFire has engaged the senses and ignited the emotions of more than 10 million visitors since the First Fire was lit in 1994.WaterFire is one of the most captivating regular events on Providence’s lively arts and cultural scene.
EVENT “Cocktail Culture”
INFO
April 15–July 31, 2011; Rhode Island School of Design Museum; www.risd museum.org
WHAT’S ON TAP
The famous Rhode Island School of Design’s museum remembers the glamour of a bygone era with an exhibit that examines our culture as refracted through a highball glass.This one-of-a-kind show features more than 200 objects—from decorative art such as barware, furni- ture, and photography, to stunning examples of cocktail attire from lauded designers like Balenciaga and Coco Chanel.
ESMO 2011
May16–19, 2011; Rhode Island Convention Center; www.esmo
The Institute of Electrical&Electronics Engineers’ (IEEE ) international conference for professionals involved in the engineering,construction, and operation of the world’s power-delivery systemswill take place at the award-winning Rhode Island Convention Center,and will feature live electrical-wire demonstrations in secure city locations.
Designed for teacher educators, programadministrators,and others who provide professional preparation and ongoing professional- development experiences for the early-childhood workforce, the Institute is expected to drawmore than 1,200 attendees to the Rhode Island Convention Center.
About 15,000 runners and rockers are expected to converge in Provi- dence for this musical road race,which features live bands,themed water stations,and cheerleaders every mile along the course.Weekend activities include a two-day Health&Fitness Expo at the Rhode Island Convention Center and a post-race finish-line concert.