Good morning, Providence.

Joseph Machado, a 78-year-old veteran injured in Vietnam, received his Purple Heart on Tuesday at the Rhode Island Veterans Home in Bristol after a 55+ year delay caused by an administrative oversight; Sen. Jack Reed's office helped secure the medal.

Providence residents can shop local this holiday season with a digital gift card guide featuring downtown shops + cafes and restaurants.

The guide offers last-minute gift ideas that support small businesses while helping buyers find a useful, seasonal present.

Coffee chains including Starbucks, Dunkin, Aroma Joe's, McDonald's and IHOP are open today + customers should check local apps for exact hours.

Providence musician Christopher Mitchell reported his car windows were smashed and essential gear stolen at Union Station Brewery on Monday night — local friends quickly launched a GoFundMe to help him replace his equipment.

A PixlParade survey of about 2,000 Americans shows National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation topped the national ranking, while Rhode Island viewers favored The Holiday (2006).

The survey offers locals guidance on which holiday films to rewatch and which ones to skip.

Little Compton claims a tie to 'It's A Wonderful Life' as scriptwriters Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett summered on Bailey's Ledge (a local landmark).

Town historian Marjory O’Toole explained that the film’s Bedford Falls nod reflects nearby names from New Bedford and Fall River.

A local bird rescue group is asking for help tracking a weak brown pelican near Point Judith after strong southwest winds blew the bird off course last week.

The group urges anyone who sees the pelican to call (513-236-0654) so it can receive care.

Santa visited Women and Infants Hospital's NICU today to bring holiday cheer as part of Project Sweet Peas' annual tradition.

The nonprofit provided holiday costumes (and keepsake photos) to support families with premature or sick babies during the season.

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.

Mojo Brookzz Comedy Show

9:30 PM - 12:30 AM — Comedy Connection — Tickets available — Enjoy the humor of Mojo Brookzz, a star on the We Them Ones Comedy Tour.

Fight Life Pro Wrestling: Never Easy

3-6 p.m. — Lighthouse Skatepark — Snacks and drinks available — Enjoy an afternoon of live indy wrestling featuring top performers in a vibrant venue.

Birdhouse Painting Workshop

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Knight Memorial Library — Reservations required — Create and paint your very own wooden birdhouse in this hands-on workshop.