This February, downtown Providence transforms into a hub of art, light, and celebration as Lumina 2025: “Play!” takes over from February 1-17. Organized by the Downtown Providence Park Network (DPPN) and the Downtown Improvement District, the festival invites the community to connect through creativity and wonder.
Building on last year’s success, which drew 300,000 visitors and nationwide recognition, Lumina 2025 promises an even more extraordinary experience. Interactive installations, captivating performances, and contributions from Rhode Island’s top artists position the festival as the region’s premier winter event.
A centerpiece of the festival, POP!, features glowing monoliths that blend music, light, and playful surprises. Created by Gentilhomme and brought to life by QDSi, these vibrant characters – POPO, POPUP, POPLI, POPETTE, and POPOTIN – are sure to enchant audiences of all ages.
Visitors seeking musical experiences can enjoy Harmony Lanes, in which stationary bikes produce colorful light shows synced with music. Meanwhile, Harmonies, an interactive display of oversized glowing instruments, transforms downtown into a symphony of light and sound.
The festival also highlights Rhode Island artists, showcasing unique works by Cristin Searles, Linsey Wallace, Bláithín Haddad, Saberah Malik, Max Van Lorimer, Jessica Ricci, and Tiffiniy Cheng. Performances add to the excitement, including the Ice Dance International at the renovated Providence Rink and high-energy showcases from the Rhode Island Ballet and Big Nazo. Families can enjoy workshops, street performances, and the lively beats of the Providence Drum Troupe.
Beyond the artistic displays, Lumina 2025 strengthens community bonds by partnering with local businesses. Sip-n-Hop tours, curated dining experiences, and pop-up events encourage visitors to explore Providence’s rich cultural scene. Best of all, the festival is free, ensuring that everyone can join the celebration. For more information, visit DowntownParks.org.
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