waterfire centers on a series of 100 bonfires that blaze just above the surface of the three rivers that pass through the middle of downtown providence. the string of fires illuminates nearly two-thirds of a mile of urban public spaces and parks, and residents and visitors gather to stroll along the river while listening to a memorable and eclectic selection of classical and world music that serves as a melodic accompaniment to the normal sounds of urban life. the fires are tended from sunset to past midnight by black-clad performers in boats who pass quietly before the flames. there are no admission charges to waterfire.