Special to The Journal

This time every year, people consciously and unconsciously yearn for more – not more presents or cookies but more connection, more sparkle, more warmth tingling from head to toe.

Family and "me time" is an important addition to the holiday to-do list and helps remind us of the season’s important messages. Find – or boost – your holiday spirit this year with one or more of these area activities:

PVD Holiday Festival and WaterFire

Dec. 4-7, downtown Providence. From a holiday market and City Hall tree lighting to performance artists and a special WaterFire, this free family-friendly event has it all. Take a break from shopping local artisans’ wares for ice skating or ice bumper cars (each for a fee) at The Providence Rink at Kennedy Plaza. Visit goprovidence.com

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