The DID Trash Cans are part of the Downtown Improvement District’s ongoing effort to keep the city center clean and welcoming. Fabricated by The Steel Yard, these sturdy receptacles are easy to spot thanks to their distinctive bright yellow rings.
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Sott’Acqua: A Tale of Two Cities transformed downtown Providence into a powerful, immersive dialogue between Florence and Providence. Together with @splendorofflorence, we filled our waterfront with art, history, and the shared story of two cities shaped by water, resilience, and creativity.
And now the journey continues.
In November 2026, A Tale of Two Cities will come to life once again — this time in Florence.
We can’t wait!
🎄 The countdown is on! From December 4-7 join us in celebrating community, light and joy at the PVD Holiday Festival in Downtown Providence. Stay tuned for details and special events!
Helen Rowe Metcalf changed the course of Providence history when she chose to invest in education instead of a public monument. In 1877, she used leftover funds from the Rhode Island Women’s Centennial Commission to found what would become the Rhode Island School of Design (@risd1877) a bold move many thought was too risky for women to lead.
Her vision created a space where early students—mostly women—could study jewelry-making, furniture design, and textiles, supporting Providence’s booming industries. Metcalf personally shaped the school’s curriculum, teaching standards, and daily operations, laying the foundation for one of the world’s top art and design schools.
Today, RISD stands as a testament to women’s leadership, creativity, and innovation in art, design, and Rhode Island history. Her legacy continues to inspire students, makers, and the entire Providence RI community.
#RISD #HelenRoweMetcalf
Thousands of you joined us in downtown Providence this weekend as we honored Día de los Muertos in partnership with @rilatinoarts, @waterfirepvd, and local artists.
At the Downtown Providence Park Network, our hope was for you to learn and experience the scared Mexican tradition. The bright marigolds, or cempasúchil, guided the spirits home with their color and fragrance. Candles lit their way with warmth and light. Pan de Muerto represented the circle of life and the love that endures. We shared more than 500 pieces baked by the family at @la.artesa.bakery with hot chocolate as families, friends, and visitors gathered to honor their loved ones. The ofrenda held photos, water, and cherished mementos, creating a bridge between the living and the departed. Traditional Mexican dance @grupomisolha filled the evening with music.
Thank you for adding the name of your loved ones to the ofrenda by @alhteran. In Providence, everyone belongs.
Downtown Providence was filled with light, color, and remembrance as we celebrated Día de los Muertos, one of Mexico’s most beautiful traditions.
Surrounded by marigolds, candles, music, and dancing, we honored life, love, and memory together. The scent of pan de muerto and the warmth of hot chocolate carried the spirit of Mexico through our city. @la.artesa.bakery
It was an honor for us to organize and host this moving celebration and to share this evening of magic and community with all who visited downtown at @waterfireprov
This is Providence — a city that celebrates every culture and every story. Here, everyone belongs. 🌼
If you missed tonight, join @rilatinoarts and @waterfirepvd tomorrow at the Southside Cultural Center at 4:30 for another beautiful celebration of Día de los Muertos. Thank you @alhteran
#DiaDeLosMuertos #DowntownProvidence #CulturaViva #everyonebelongshere
30 Exchange Terrace
Providence, RI 02903