Fall is a wonderful time to visit Providence. Cooler temperatures, changing leaves and a full calendar of festivals and events make September through November one of our favorite times of year in the city.
If you’re planning a fall getaway to Providence, here are five events to add to your itinerary.
WaterFire Providence
September 17 & 26 | October 3, 17 & 29 | November 7
One of Providence’s most iconic experiences, WaterFire brings firelight, music, and art to the rivers and public spaces of downtown Providence. Fall offers several opportunities to experience WaterFire, from traditional full lightings to smaller special events.
Full WaterFire Lightings: September 26, October 17 and November 7
Partial Lighting: October 3
Starts at Sunset: September 17 and October 29
The Starts at Sunset events offer a more intimate WaterFire experience on the Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Pedestrian Bridge, with five braziers illuminating the bridge alongside art and programming.
The Christopher Dodge House is just a short walk from Waterplace Park and downtown Providence, making it easy to experience one of the city’s signature events during your fall stay.
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo
October 1 – November 1
A favorite Rhode Island fall tradition, the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular returns to Roger Williams Park Zoo with thousands of intricately carved and illuminated pumpkins.
This year’s theme, The Great Pun-Kin Trail, brings plenty of clever carvings, laughs and impressive pumpkin artistry to the zoo’s nighttime trail. It’s a fun way to celebrate the Halloween season while visiting Providence.
RISD Craft
October 10
RISD Craft returns to historic Benefit Street on Saturday, October 10. This juried outdoor sale features work by Rhode Island School of Design alumni and is a great opportunity to browse one-of-a-kind art and handmade goods.
You’ll find everything from jewelry and ceramics to textiles, prints, furniture and more—all in one of Providence’s most beautiful historic neighborhoods.
Federal Hill Columbus Day Festival
October 9 – 12
Head to Federal Hill for the 41st Annual Columbus Weekend Festival, a four-day celebration in one of Providence’s best-known neighborhoods.
Atwells Avenue comes alive with food, live entertainment, vendors and plenty of Italian-American tradition. Come hungry—Federal Hill is known for its restaurants, bakeries and specialty food shops, making this a particularly delicious way to spend a fall afternoon in Providence.
Rhode Island Comic Con
November 6 – 8
Fall fun continues into November with Rhode Island Comic Con, one of Providence’s biggest annual events.
Held at the Rhode Island Convention Center and Amica Mutual Pavilion, the three-day event brings together celebrity guests, artists, comics, collectibles, cosplay and pop culture fans from across New England and beyond.
The Christopher Dodge House is conveniently located just outside downtown, making it easy to enjoy Comic Con while staying away from the busiest part of the city.
Plan Your Fall Getaway to Providence
Whether you’re coming for WaterFire, pumpkins, local art, great food or Comic Con, there’s plenty happening in Providence this fall.
Make the Christopher Dodge House your home base while you explore the city. Our historic Providence bed and breakfast is located just outside downtown and across from the Rhode Island State House, with complimentary breakfast and on-site parking included with your stay.
We look forward to welcoming you to Providence this fall!
