‘Three Nights of Lights’ holiday festival to return to Providence

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Providence’s “Three Nights of Lights” will return for its second year.

Mayor Brett Smiley said downtown will light up with holiday magic from Dec. 1 to 3 in the festive celebration organized by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau.

“Weekends like these exemplify why Providence is the entertainment capital of Rhode Island,” he said. “‘Three Nights of Lights’ is the best way to gather together with our community to celebrate the holiday season and witness first-hand why Providence is a travel destination all year long.”

“Three Nights of Lights” will kickoff Special Olympics Donut Week. Dunkin’ locations in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts will donate 25 cents from every donut sold to the Special Olympics.

The festival will include a holiday market, ice sculptures, live performances, and illuminated murals.

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley announces the plans for “Three Nights of Lights.” (WLNE)

Santa Claus will visit downtown for some of the festivities, including the tree lighting with the mayor and WaterFire.

The celebration will begin with two tree lightings on Friday, Dec. 1.

It will be Smiley’s first time as mayor to light the Christmas tree at City Hall. The annual ceremony will be held at 5:30 p.m.

A second tree lighting will be held at The Providence Ice Rink at the same time.

The outside of Grace Episcopal Church will be illuminated with a winter lights display with music and digital audio each night from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. There will be a live ensemble performance on Saturday, Dec. 2.

The holiday WaterFire show will be held on Saturday starting at 5:30 p.m.

People can take photos in Santa’s Village and by the 15-foot Christmas tree donated by Stanley Tree Service, Inc.