This is no joke. Corporate sponsors have been peeling off for various reasons and last summer’s schedule had to be pared down. WaterFire nights continue to be well-attended but it has been easy to take it for granted — it’s just free. But is your firewood free? They must have enormous operating costs. WaterFire executive artistic director, Barnaby Evans, sends this message:
Despite this success, as an entirely free event, you have likely heard that we are struggling financially. As a long-time supporter, we owe you an explanation. The City contributes in-kind and helps with police and the State recognizes our economic importance and contributes about 10% of our budget. For years the bulk of our expenses were covered by corporate sponsors. This worked until the pandemic, which accelerated a long-term trend of businesses closing, consolidating, or moving overseas. Many of our original sponsors no longer exist, have left Rhode Island, or have reduced their presence–decimating our sponsorship support. If we are to continue, we must increase individual contributions from friends like you who love WaterFire.
Go here to donate.
And the season isn’t even over: They will have to find room in their budget for the upcoming New Year’s Eve Celebration at District Park and the Pedestrian Bridge.
WaterFire is excited to be working with the Providence Tourism Council once again to bring back a special Starts at Sunset activation on the 29th anniversary of WaterFire’s first lighting in Providence. . . Catch performances by the Providence Drum Troupe and the Extraordinary Rendition Band followed by an Illuminate PVD Fireworks show at 8:30pm.
There are many demands on your end-of-year giving — some of which may feel more urgent — but we really don’t want to lose this unique Providence event.