Providence, Rhode Island, Mayor Brett Smiley said Wednesday that gospel singer Mavis Staples will headline this year’s PVDFest, which is undergoing a number of changes, including a new location and a shift to fall.
The festival will take place from September 8 to 10 in Innovation District Park, which is the area surrounding the pedestrian bridge, reports WJAR.
Staples will perform on September 9. It is also planned to have the WaterFire event for that night.
Other artists scheduled to appear over the festival weekend include Stay Silent PVD, Flawless, Afrika Nyaga Drum and Dance Festival and Pneuhaus, a group known for their giant inflatable sculptures.
Smiley said PVDFest has been moved from the summer to the fall shoulder season when there are fewer events in town. He said it will give area businesses a post-Labor Day boost.
The mayor also responded to criticism that the festival is moving from its previous downtown location.
He said this year’s PVDFest presented an opportunity to use a popular public space that’s just a five-minute walk from at least three Providence neighborhoods.
Regarding the open container ban this year, he said there are plenty of places around the venue to have a drink.
