WaterFire Providence, an acclaimed public art event that began in 1994, will celebrate its 500th lighting in 2026. This milestone honors the event’s history of bringing community together through fire, water, and music along the Providence River. To mark the occasion, WaterFire is inviting community members to become one of 500 “Milestone Torchbearers.” These participants will play an active role in the lighting ceremonies by carrying flaming torches down the steps into the basin at Waterplace Park, helping to ignite the fires that define the event. Each torchbearer will receive a commemorative photo to remember their involvement. The torch processions are intimate, with up to 50 participants per event, and require individuals to be comfortable handling a lit torch weighing about two pounds. The lighting begins at sunset, preceded by a safety briefing. Barnaby Evans, WaterFire’s Executive Artistic Director, emphasized the importance of community support to ensure the event continues for many more years. Spots for torchbearers are limited and expected to fill quickly. Interested individuals can reserve their place for the 2026 season by contacting WaterFire’s community relations manager.