City of Providence announces official start of the holiday season

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Providence’s mayor gathered with carolers and the famous “Grinch” to officially declare the beginning of the holiday season.

Holiday cheer was in the air as decorations made their way up and around Rhode Island’s capital city.

“First, the downtown festivities begin his weekend where downtown Providence will be transformed into a holiday wonderland,” said Mayor Brett Smiley.

“The Grinch” also joined the mayor as a special guest and officially declared the beginning of holiday programming in Providence.

“He experienced a profound change of heart. This change was so remarkable, on this day, November 28th, we celebrate ‘The Grinch’ and his incredible journey and the day his heart grew three sizes,” Smiley continued.

Performances of “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical” will begin at the Providence Performing Arts Center on Tuesday. Shows will run until Sunday.

Kennedy Plaza also made its annual transition to an ice rink, along with ice bumper cars that are available to ride.

The official lighting of the Christmas tree in Kennedy Plaza will be on Friday at 5:30 p.m. On Saturday, a special partial WaterFire lighting will be held for the holidays.

A menorah lighting will also take place outside of City Hall on Dec. 10., celebrating Hanukkah.

Federal Hill also kicked off its Christmas on the Hill last Saturday.

“The holidays in Providence are so important and warm and an opportunity for us to come together as a community to celebrate and to think about family and friends,” Smiley said.