Aerial dancers were leaping off the side of a 10-story office building as part of an opening ceremony for the signature culture festival of Rhode Island's capital city.

This year's PVD Fest began Thursday afternoon and continues through Sunday in Providence.

Four dancers from Oakland, California-based Bandaloop were harnessed with ropes hanging from the top of an office tower near Providence City Hall. They return for performances on Friday and Saturday nights.

This marks the third year of Providence's free celebration, which includes music and dance, art installations and food. The festival's downtown portion culminates Saturday with a parade, dance party and nighttime musical performances around Kennedy Plaza. A full schedule is available at www.pvdfest.com .

The festival continues Sunday with an art event in the city's West End.