Behind the Magic: WaterFire Walking Tours

Photograph by Jen Bonin

WaterFire Walking Tours are back for the 2024 season!

Experience the magic of WaterFire like never before with this behind-the-scenes walking tour! Led by long-time WaterFire volunteers, this tour covers the remarkable origin story, artistry, and hidden gems of Providence’s most cherished event. Your guide will bring you through the heart of the city, walking alongside the path of the braziers that will be lit just a few short hours later. 

The tour starts at 129 Dyer St in Providence and ends at Waterplace Park. Like all WaterFire lightings, this tour is rain or shine! Please wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather and bring a water bottle. The tour route is about half a mile, taking a leisurely pace with plenty of stops. Please note that the tour route does include some uneven walkways, cobblestone sidewalks, and stairs. The whole tour is about 90 minutes.

Tickets are $25 and also include a certificate to add a wish to the Starry, Starry Night installation during the lighting. Be sure to select your preferred date/time at checkout: we cannot issue refunds for tickets bought in error. Behind the Magic tours will take place at most full lightings throughout the 2024 season. We hope to announce more lightings as funding becomes available, so check back regularly for updates about tour dates.

This unique experience is both a perfect introduction to WaterFire for new visitors and an intriguing glimpse behind the scenes for those who have been coming to WaterFire for years. Whether it’s your first lighting or your fiftieth, we are excited to have you join us!

Everything we do is made possible by your support; thank you for your help keeping the fires burning!