New attractions include salsa nights, roller derby and more on week night
May 29, 2019
PROVIDENCE, RI – Providence Mayor Jorge O. Elorza will join Department of Parks Director Wendy Nilsson, Department of Art, Culture + Tourism Director Stephanie Fortunato, ALEX AND ANI City Center Manager Brant Gawrys, and community partners to kick off the summer programming season at ALEX AND ANI City Center, announcing a series of new and returning activities coming to the downtown facility. In addition to bumper cars and performances, the Providence Rink will host a new Summer Salsa Blast series and debut new recreational sports leagues, roller skating and lawn games throughout the summer.
“The ALEX AND ANI City Center is one of our most inviting, welcoming and dynamic public spaces that our families enjoy year-round,” said Providence Mayor Jorge O. Elorza. “This year’s programming offers something to every resident, regardless of age or interests. I am excited to see this great facility in the heart of our thriving and vibrant downtown bring people together and help our residents and visitors connect with the spaces around them.”
The City Center is scheduled to host three free, family-friendly Latin music and dance events this summer as part of expanded programming. The Summer Salsa Blast events will take place on July 20, August 24 and September 14 (6PM-12PM) and will include group lessons, music and dancing with program partner Mambo Pa Ti Dance Company. Food trucks and refreshments will also be available.
“We’re excited to welcome this new season of programming with the addition new activities that inspire people to get active and outdoors this summer,” said Department of Parks Director Wendy Nilsson. “Whether it’s spending quality time with family and friends, challenging yourself to a new activity, or finding new ways to be fit, the City Center is sure to welcome residents and visitors into our Downtown with a variety of recreation and entertainment opportunities.”
Also new to the neighborhood is Trinity Brewhouse’s seasonal, outdoor beer garden, located in Biltmore Park just steps away from the rink. The beer garden will serve a rotating selection of Trinity Brewhouse beers, offerings from Rhode Island and New England-based craft breweries, wine, cocktails and local food vendors. The beer garden will be operating Wednesdays through Saturdays from 4:30PM to 10:00PM for the duration of summer and early fall, weather permitting.
Just next week, PVDFest will be returning to the ALEX AND ANI City Center for this year’s festival, hosting the Rhode Island Day of Portugal on Saturday June 8 and Sunday June 9. Programming includes outdoor cultural displays, arts and crafts, traditional Portuguese music and entertainment, a “chama da portugalidade” torch procession, and Day of Portugal parade. This family-friendly event celebrates the vibrant history of the Portuguese community in Rhode Island and welcomes all to participate.
The Providence Rink offers availability for public and private events throughout the summer and fall. Other specialty events include Providence Roller Derby; Day Trill by Stay Silent; Fitness in the Parks; and much more.
Summer programming schedules will be held at ALEX AND ANI City Center Monday through Friday evenings, weather permitting, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Schedule is subject to change.
For most up to date scheduling, please visit https://theprovidencerink.com/.
Super Fun Activities Club (SFAC) Adult Sports League
WHEN: Mondays 6:30PM-9:00PM, Tuesdays 6:30PM-9:00PM
WHAT: Dodgeball and volleyball leagues
PRICING: Prices and registration available through superfunactivitiesclub.com
WHEN: Wednesdays 5:00PM-10:00PM
WHAT: family-friendly bumper car races
PRICING: racing rental $7, racing package of 6 $35, online reservations are recommended
WHEN: Thursdays 5:00PM-10:00PM
WHAT: family-friendly roller skating and roller blading
PRICING: adults $7, children (under 13) $4, seniors (64+) $4, military (with ID) $4
Summer Hangout Series
WHEN: Fridays 4:00PM-10:00PM
WHAT: featuring lawn games, volleyball, bumper cars, music, giveaways and more
PRICING: free admission except for bumper cars $6, walk ups only
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