Downtown Providence Block Pawty Returns December 6 with Festive Fun for Pets and Their People
Free downtown Providence celebration features 25+ vendors, dog-friendly contests and competitions, Santa Paws photos, the Tail Wag Tavern and more.
PROVIDENCE, RI — Downtown Providence is going to the dogs this holiday season — in the best possible way! The second annual Holiday Paws Downtown Block Pawty returns on Sunday, December 6, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., transforming the Westminster and Aborn Street area into a festive, dog-friendly holiday celebration filled with shopping, entertainment, contests, competitions and activities for pets and their people.
Produced by BCR Creative Relations LLC, Holiday Paws is free and open to the public, welcoming dog lovers, families, holiday shoppers and visitors of all ages to celebrate the season while supporting Providence Animal Rescue League (PARL).
Following a successful inaugural event in 2025 that welcomed approximately 750 attendees and more than 50 dogs, organizers are expanding this year’s celebration with additional activities, shopping opportunities and festive experiences throughout the downtown event footprint.
“Last year’s Holiday Paws showed us just how much people love coming together downtown to celebrate the holidays with their dogs,” said Brendan Chipley Roane, founder of BCR Creative Relations and producer of Holiday Paws. “This year, we’re building on that excitement with more shopping, activities, contests and opportunities to connect. We want Holiday Paws to become a holiday tradition that brings people downtown, supports local businesses and makes a meaningful difference for animals in our community.”
Holiday Shopping, Contests and Plenty of Pawty Fun
Holiday Paws will feature a curated marketplace of more than 25 vendors, bringing together pet-focused businesses, Rhode Island artisans, makers and holiday gift vendors. Visitors can shop for unique gifts, discover local businesses and enjoy a festive atmosphere throughout the downtown celebration.
Four-legged guests can join the fun through holiday-themed contests and friendly competitions, including festive costume showcases and other playful activities celebrating the personalities and talents of participating pups.
Families and pet owners can also capture a special holiday memory with Santa Paws, with professional holiday photographs available for purchase.
A centerpiece of this year’s celebration will be the Paws & Play Heated Lodge, presented by Chaffee Industrial Roofing. The 20-by-30-foot heated tent will offer a welcoming retreat from the December weather, complete with comfortable seating, festive decorations and dog-friendly experiences.
The celebration will also feature the Tail Wag Tavern, a festive gathering spot for adult guests, along with entertainment, interactive activities and photo opportunities.
Attendees can also participate in a holiday raffle featuring prizes donated by local businesses and community supporters.
Community Support Makes the Pawty Possible
Holiday Paws is made possible through the generosity of local businesses, sponsors, vendors and community partners.
Portions of event proceeds and sponsorships directly benefit Providence Animal Rescue League, with remaining funds supporting the production and operations of this free community celebration.
“Keeping Holiday Paws free and accessible is incredibly important to us,” added Roane. “Our sponsors and community partners make that possible while helping us support PARL and bring people together for a fun, festive day downtown.”
Additional sponsorship opportunities remain available for businesses of all sizes, while individuals and community members can support the production and operation of the free, community event through the Community Supporter Campaign.
Part of a Festive Day in Downtown Providence
Holiday Paws will take place alongside other downtown holiday programming, including the PVD Holiday Festival and InDowncity Holiday Market, giving visitors even more reasons to spend the day exploring Providence.
With seasonal shopping, entertainment and holiday activities taking place throughout downtown, December 6 promises to be a lively day for residents and visitors alike.
Event Details
Event: Second Annual Holiday Paws Downtown Block Pawty
Date: Sunday, December 6, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Westminster and Aborn Streets, Downtown Providence, Rhode Island
Admission: Free and open to the public
Benefiting: Providence Animal Rescue League
Website: www.holidaypawsblockpawty.com
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. Santa Paws photographs, raffle tickets and select offerings are available for purchase.
For event information, sponsorship opportunities and participation details, visit the event website.
About Holiday Paws Downtown Block Pawty
Holiday Paws Downtown Block Pawty is an annual dog-friendly holiday street celebration in downtown Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 2025 and produced by BCR Creative Relations LLC, the event brings together local businesses, pet lovers, families and community partners for a festive experience celebrating the holidays while supporting Providence Animal Rescue League.
About BCR Creative Relations
BCR Creative Relations LLC is a Providence-based creative production and communications company specializing in events and experiences, marketing and communications, and business development and partnerships. Through community-focused initiatives and collaborative experiences, BCR works to connect people, businesses and places.