[Outfit: Willow & Clay Surplice Jumpsuit (on sale), Havaianna flip flops, Rebecca Minkoff Mini Crossbody (similar), Wildfox Steff 50mm Sunglasses]
I had an awesome time in Providence over the weekend. The city celebrated it’s second annual PVDfest which is a four day, multi-arts festival that takes place over the public spaces, parts and outdoor spaces of Providence. Live music, dance, parades take over the streets — here’s just a taste of the parade!
It was such a cool experience and a great way to get a taste of all the creativity that’s oozing out of the city. The local restaurants were out serving drinks, and the vendors we’re out. We stopped in The Rosendale for drinks and lunch. Their Maestro Picante infused with jalapeno drink and banana infused shots are not to be missed (it tastes like desert!). Their menu is pretty spectacular as well – traditional bar food with a twist.
There’s also a number of street vendors out and I wasn’t about to pass up some oysters from the crew behind the Ocean State Oyster Festival (mark your calendars for Sept. 17th). Eat, drink and be merry was the total vibe walking down the streets of downtown.
Early evening we celebrated the festival at a a private reception with Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza. Providence has really been fortunate to have someone so invested in the city and the arts. They brought in international artists as well as locals to perform during the festival and their commitment to preserving the arts and youth programs to harness that creativity is something to be recognized. Also he let me take a selfie with him, so there’s that!
At night the city came alive with bands performing and outdoor art activities. I walked by a paint station where you trace your dates outline to create a totally impressionistic work of art. I should also note that every activity and performance is free and open to the public.
Other highlights from the trip was boating with Captain Tom and the Providence River Boat Company. Fun fact: you get to stand on the platform where “There’s Something About Mary” was filmed as you enter the dock to get on the boat.
A romantic Gondola ride with La Gondola – this man brought us biscotti’s and sang to us while we cruised along the water. All that was missing was James and an engagement ring.
Taking a walking art tour with The Avenue Concept led by Yarrow Thorne.
The Todd Oldham exhibit at the RISD Museum — and actually the entire museum is exquisite!
Thank you to the amazing tourism board for hosting me! For anyone headed out to Providence be sure to check out their site for recommendations and happenings at goprovidence.com