Recap: Waterfire | Providenece

Me and my lovely Fab! Friends headed out to Providence to experience Waterfire a artistic celebration of the city of downtown Providence. We got there just around the time the sun was setting and watched as gondolas brought the wood to the bonfire piles in the water and eventually lit them. The city lights were turned off and there was calming music that echoed throughout the downtown. Surprising it was just at the right volume...

Apparently the display goes for 4 miles, but we probably walked about one :) It is really neat how you can go right along the water by going down sets of stairs next to the bridges for an up close and personal time with the fire or simply walk along the city and enjoy the atmosphere. And if you get tired of walking there are plenty of places to sit and take a break.

We saw some couples and families actually on gondolas in the water, probably cost a pretty penny, but they seemed to be enjoying themselves.

Along the river there are few places to stop for food unless you want snacks like fried dough, french fries or popcorn. There are a lot of restaurants close to the Providence Place (mall), but they had crazy wait times. We did happen to stop by Napa Valley Grille (111 Providence Place) and didn't have a wait at all. The prices were a little higher than American Joe's or Uno's Pizzeria - (don't even try The Cheesecake Factory - it's like a 2 hour wait!!), but if you want something fast and filing this may be the way to go. Be sure to ask for the small menu! The regular menu entrees are around $35. The small menu that has sandwiches, burgers and mac and cheese that will run you around $14. And their wine selection is extensive.

After some munchies we continued on to the Ballroom, now don't be fooled this ballroom is outdoors, but it set up with a wooden dance floor, chairs for viewing and an easily accessible beer garden. The night we visited it was all about swing complete with zoot suits, swinging skirts and a full brass band. We didn't get in on the action, but had a nice time people watching.

Band - Roger Ceresi and The Allstars

I absolutely recommend you check out Waterfire. It's a great way to get out of the city and experience something different. It is a bit on the romantic side so I have to put it in the "Get your boo to take you" category. There are three more chances to catch it this year. For more info click here!!

*Fab! Girl Tip: This is a GREAT date idea...AHEM- I REPEAT FELLAS (okay ladies too...) this is a GREAT date idea!! And can be totally inexpensive. The festival is outside, and absolutely FREE (though they ask for a $3 donation) parking is around $10 for the entire night- also FREE you find street parking. And if you're really on a budget you can bring your own picnic basket with your favorite wine and cheeses, or pre-made dinners (stop by the Stop and Shop or Whole Foods deli's for some ideas...) maybe pick up some dessert from your favorite pastry shop and you're good to go!

If you want to ball it out - get a gondola.

P.S. - If this is a first date...proceed with caution ;)

Stay Fab! :)