Experience: The Braz ier Society

A writer gets the VIP treatment of a sustaining member

BY CAITLIN HOWLE

The thick scent of burning wood floats through the air and the tiniest wisp of smoke seems to be wafting across the Providence skyline. I am standing, enamored with all around me, in the tent of the elite Brazier Society at WaterFire. The Brazier Society welcomes companies and individuals who generously give to the nonprofit and I have been invited as a guest. Not only does this mean delicious hor d’oeuvres and drinks, but also an opportunity to get up close and personal with the braziers on the Woonasquatucket River.

As I eagerly wait at the Brazier Society tent, a page comes to my party and leads us to the boats. I come to the dock where my boat awaits and look at the large eight-seater floating peacefully on the river. I feel a fleeting moment of panic that I will fall in the water, but the calming smell of burning wood grows heavy. As I step down into the boat, I’m so close to a brazier that I can feel the heat of the fire radiating from it.

The boat is launched and we begin our journey; I am suddenly in awe of how quiet it is. Though there are people crowded around the river, all looking down at us and the river lit with braziers, I barely notice them. As we approach the basin, I see the dancing flames of light and all I hear are the soft crackles and pops of the luminous braziers. By the time our half-hour boat ride ends, I am in love. I am in love with WaterFire, and I am in love with Providence.

Water Views

Experience the magic of the installation head on from the water via La Gondola, o ering authentic Venetian gondola rides, or aboard Providence River Boat Company. Last August’s Clear Currents’ Community Paddling Night was a big success so keep posted at WaterFire. org for updates on 2023. The WaterFire Access Boat is available for individuals with accessibility issues by reservation. Volunteers and Brazier Society members have other boat options as well.

Immersive Experience

There are myriad opportunities to volunteer at WaterFire, including manning guest stations, welcoming visitors, helping build the actual braziers (an 18+ activity), and assisting at the Starry, Starry Night and Luminaria installations. For the more adventurous, volunteers are needed for boat crews that tend the fires, and the strike crew who return all things WaterFire back to their places. Membership in the Brazier Society or becoming a volunteer are exciting ways to experience the flames up close by boat. Learn more at WaterFire.org

Hotel Providence

Nestled in the city’s Art & Theater district, New England residents can enjoy a 20 percent discount off rates with proof of valid ID at check in. Marble bathrooms are part of the sophisticated European-inspired guest rooms and suites. 139 Mathewson Street

: 4 : 9 : 10 : 5

Renaissance Providence

Downtown Hotel

Adore a State House view? This former Masonic Temple makes a chic first impression with its sophisticated lobby. Features include onsite eatery Public Kitchen & Bar, fitness center, and hotel valet parking with 24-hour in/out privileges is available for a daily fee.

5 Avenue of the Arts

: 2 : 6 : 3

RISE ‘N SHINE COFFEE BAR

97 Holden St., Providence | @RiseNShineCo eeBar

Espresso bar with organic co ee, signature drinks and fresh pastries

Sip

NEW HARVEST COFFEE & SPIRITS

10 Sims Ave, Providence | NewHarvestCo ee.com

Our flagship cafe accentuates the journey from co ee seed to cup and the journey of grain to glass with an array of spirits.

3

CAFÉ ZOEY

791 Hope St, Providence | CafeZoey.com

Friendly Cafe on Upper Hope, Providence’s most colorful spot. Crepes, Wa es & the finest Espresso, Co ees and Teas. Kosher too

SMALL POINT CAFÉ

230 Westminster St, Providence | SmallPointCafe.com

The comfortable place to be, serving the Downcity of PVD since 2011. The finest espresso, co ees, teas, treats, sandwiches & salads.