Good morning, Providence.

Retail chains will be closed on Christmas (Dec.

25) and have adjusted hours on Christmas Eve, so Providence shoppers should plan their last-minute trips accordingly. Call your local store to confirm hours as nearly all major chains such as Walmart, Target, and Home Depot will be closed on Christmas.

Verizon Fios stopped carrying FOX channels in Providence on Dec.

15 due to a contract dispute with Cox Media Group. The company says it is working to reach a new agreement (customers may consider a TV antenna for local access) and restore service for sports and entertainment.

A 77-year-old Coventry woman last seen on Wednesday at 7 a.m. near Carley Drive was located safely as her Silver Alert closed shortly before 11 a.m. Thursday, according to police.

A.T. Wall, a longtime corrections director known for his humane approach and Yale Law background, is celebrated posthumously for reshaping Providence’s corrections system by emphasizing inmate rehabilitation and fairness.

Colleagues (former officials) say his legacy sets a strong example for our community.

Six restaurants are brightening the holidays with festive decorations and seasonal menus; Miracle Bar in Providence, Tree House Tavern in Warwick, Annie’s in Newport, Macera’s in Cranston, The Square Peg in Warren, and The Old Grist Mill Tavern in Seekonk (MA) offer unique dining experiences.

Johnston High School senior Olivia Iafrate will play flag football at the NFL Pro Bowl in San Francisco as one of 32 high school girls chosen nationwide; her selection will spotlight emerging talent + inspire local sports fans.

Johnston High School senior Olivia Iafrate was chosen as one of 32 girls to play flag football at the NFL Pro Bowl Games in San Francisco on Tuesday, Feb.

3 - her selection follows a standout moment scoring a touchdown at a recent Patriots game.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Providence Performing Arts Center — Ticket required — Experience a magical holiday adventure with captivating circus acts and festive music.

The Nutcracker Ballet

1:00-2:30 p.m. — Veterans Memorial Auditorium — Cost not specified — Celebrate the holiday season with Clara's enchanting journey in this classic ballet.

The Nutcracker - Ballet Rhode Island

1-2:30 p.m. — Veterans Memorial Auditorium (The VETS) — Ticket prices vary — A magical holiday ballet experience where Clara journeys through an enchanting world of sweets and dreams.

Alex Cohen Acoustic Performance

7-11 p.m. — Black Oak Kitchen & Drinks — Free entry — Enjoy acoustic renditions that create a lively atmosphere for all ages.

Day Trill

5-8 p.m. — Fete Music Hall — $35 — Enjoy a vibrant music experience featuring an exciting lineup with Where’s Nasty and Slick Vick.

Disney On Ice: Mickey's Search Party

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Amica Mutual Pavilion — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the magic of Disney as you follow a thrilling adventure in Mickey's Search Party.

Tree of Life Charcuterie Resin Tray Workshop

7-9:30 p.m. — Paint and Vino — Complimentary beverage included — Create a beautiful charcuterie resin tray while enjoying a fun night out.

Lego Building Activities

3-5 p.m. — Community Libraries of Providence: Rochambeau Library — Free entry — Build and play with Legos in a fun and welcoming environment for all ages.

Providence New Year’s Eve Celebration and Illuminate PVD Fireworks Display

The Providence Tourism Council, the City of Providence, and Mayor Brett P. Smiley are thrilled to announce the 3rd annual citywide New Year's Eve celebration with the Illuminate PVD Fireworks at the 195 District Park and the Michael Van Leesten Pedestrian Bridge on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 5:00 to 9:00 pm. Featuring local musicians, dance performances, a 360-degree photo booth, and a DJ spinning tunes all night, the party, fueled by a selection of food trucks and a tented beverage garden, will groove right up to the fireworks display at 8:30 PM.

Musical Mondays with Teacher T

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Community Libraries of Providence: Rochambeau Library — Free — Enjoy an engaging morning of guitar, singing, and dancing in the children's library.