Nearly 400 years of historic charm breeds the coziest of holiday seasons on The Classic Coast. Think cobblestone streets lined with the glow of white lights, the glitter and gold of Gilded Age mansions bedecked with dozens of Christmas trees and thousands of poinsettias, and warm, quaint shops with candlelit windows. Truth be told, enchanting doesn't quite begin to explain it.
We rounded up some of the most classic holiday events in and around Newport this season. Full of tradition and enchantment, here's everything you need to make the season merry and bright.
Holiday Events
All things merry and bright.
- Holidays at The Newport Mansions
- Sparkling Lights at The Breakers
- Newport Harbor Illuminated Boat Parade
- Newport Nutcracker
- Santa Magic at Long Wharf
- Bristol Santa House
- Bristol Holiday Preview Weekend
- Christmas in Newport
- Christmas at Blithewold Manor
- Warren Holiday Festival
- Lighting of the Lighthouse
- Hotel Viking Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Market
- A Rough Point Holiday
- Holiday Bright Night in Tiverton
- Bristol's Tree Lighting + Grand Illumination
- Annual Bowen's Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting
- Bristol Christmas Festival: European Marketplace
- Christmas Open House at Glen Manor House
- Christmas at Linden Place
- A Coggeshall Christmas
Holidays at The Newport Mansions
Back to Top of List- Where:
- The Breakers, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer* and The Elms*
- When:
- November 22, 2024 - January 1, 2025
- Hours:
- Open daily 10:00am – 4:00pm
Wander the mansions, The Breakers, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer* and The Elms* bedecked in ornamented evergreens, Christmas trees that reflect the rooms they occupy, wreaths, fresh flowers, dining tables set with period silver and china, decorations on all mantelpieces and many more festive touches.
Please note: All houses closed Thanksgiving Day, November 28 and Christmas Day, December 25. Houses close early on December 24 at 2:00 PM.
THE SCHEDULE
THE BREAKERS
Dates: Open daily, November 22, 2024 - January 1, 2025.*
Hours: Open daily 10:00am – 4:00pm
MARBLE HOUSE
Dates: Open daily, November 22, 2024 - January 1, 2025.*
Hours: Open daily 10:00am – 4:00pm
CHATEAU-SUR-MER
Dates: Open daily, November 22, 2024 - December 8, 2024
Hours: Open daily 10:00am – 4:00pm
THE ELMS
Dates: Open daily, December 7, 2024 - January 1, 2025.*
Hours: Open daily 10:00am – 4:00pm
ROSECLIFF
Dates: Open daily, December 9, 2024 - January 1, 2025.*
Hours: Open daily 10:00am – 4:00pm
Please note: Rosecliff will NOT be decorated for the holidays.
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Sparkling Lights at The Breakers
Back to Top of List- Where:
- The Breakers
- When:
- Various evenings, November 22 – December 29, 2024
- Hours:
- Timed admission, 4:00 to 6:00 PM, (every half-hour)
An outdoor magical wonderland.
For the fourth year, the exterior of The Breakers and its landscape will be awash in thousands of festive colored lights illuminating the grounds' paths and trees. The gardens will be decorated in different themes as holiday music fills the air. Walk through a dazzling 50-foot-long tunnel of light, see illuminated snowmen, reindeer and many more sparkling surprises. Afterwards, don't forget to make your way to the Children’s Cottage outlined in lights to take a peek through the windows at Santa’s Workshop.
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Newport Harbor Illuminated Boat Parade
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Newport Harbor
- When:
- Friday, November 29th at 6:00 PM
- Cost:
- Free
Bundle up and head to the harbor for the Illuminated Boat Parade as boats deck the hulls and festive music heralds the arrival of the holiday season. Watch the parade of lights are boats compete for best decorated.
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Newport Nutcracker
Back to Top of ListIsland Moving Company invites you to enjoy their Rhode Island ballet tradition, A Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff. Follow the young protagonist through the rooms of Rosecliff mansion as she celebrates the holiday season with her family, battles with the Mouse King, dances with the Snow Queen, and travels with her beloved Nutcracker to the magical Land of Sweets.
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Santa Magic at Long Wharf
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Shops at Long Wharf
- When:
- November 30th from 4:00 - 6:00 PM (Rain Date: December 1st)
The name say's it all—Santa Magic.
Come join the shops at Long Wharf for their 4th annual tree lighting. This is a free community event with Santa. Tree lighting, pictures with Santa, kids crafts, letters to Santa, music and much more.
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Bristol Santa House
Back to Top of List- Where:
- 140 High Street, Bristol, RI
- When:
- Various Dates
File under: places that make you feel like a kid again.
The Bristol Santa House is an inclusive experience for children with disabilities and their families to visit with Santa Claus. The Bristol Santa House welcomes the public, but please know that the core mission is serving families with special needs children, who schedule private visits to ensure an accessible experience.
THE SCHEDULE
- 11/23: Santa Claus Party
- 11/28: Closed — Happy Thanksgiving
- 12/1: Open to the Public
- 12/5: Open to the Public
- 12/7 & 12/8: Bristol Christmas Festival
- 12/7: Bristol Grand Illumination
- 12/12: Open to the Public
- 12/14: Open to the Public
- 12/15: Open to the Public
- 12/19: Open to the Public
- 12/20: Open to the Public
- 12/21: Open to the Public
- 12/22: Open to the Public
- 12/23: Open to the Public
Public visits are always free, wait times may vary. For the full schedule, and hours of operation, click here.
Bristol Holiday Preview Weekend
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Downtown Bristol. RI
- When:
- Friday, November 22nd & Saturday, November 23rd
Shop, Stroll & Be Merry!
The BMA (Bristol Merchants Association) is hosting their 29th annual Holiday Preview Weekend. Starting on Friday, followed by all-day strolling on Saturday.
Follow the luminaries to stores participating in the Holiday Preview! Find unique gifts, sip refreshments and delight in the sights & sounds of the season. Bring a friend or two along and make an evening of it!
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Christmas in Newport
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Throughout Newport
- When:
- November 22 - December 31
Christmas in Newport began as a two-week festival that celebrated the non-commercial traditions of the holiday season. Now in its 54th year, the annual program boasts multiple activities for nearly each day of the December calendar.
Enjoy a series of concerts, tree lightings, craft fairs and so much more.
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Holiday Small Works Exhibit
Spring Bull Studio & Gallery Dec 13, 2024 - Dec 30, 2024Holiday Small Works Exhibit An Art Exhibition at Spring Bull Gallery November 2 - December 30 Sunday… Read More
Advent Evenings at Historic Saint Mary's Church
St. Mary’s Church Dec 18, 2024Beautiful and historic Saint Mary's Church, home to Rhode Island's oldest Catholic parish, invites… Read More
Twas the Night Before Christmas
Newport Colony House Dec 14, 2024Four readings of the Clement C. Moore poem by well known Newporters on this 201st anniversary of its… Read More
67th Annual Service of Lessons and Carols
St. George's School Dec 13, 2024A candlelight Christmas Service of Nine Lessons & Carols will take place in the majestic St… Read More
The Newport Navy Choristers Present "Christmas in Song" A Concert to Benefit Lucy's Hearth
Saint Barnabas Church Dec 13, 2024Join us for a heartwarming evening of music and community as the Newport Navy Choristers present… Read More
Victorian Carolers at Belmont Chapel
Island Cemetery Newport Dec 13, 2024A "Very Merry Dickens Carolers" at Belmont Chapel. Read More
Holiday Cocktail Cruise
Coastal Queen Cruises, from Newport Dec 14, 2024Holiday Cocktail Cruise - 75 minutes long, beginning in Bowen's Wharf, Newport ($42 per person)… Read More
Holiday Cranberry Mimosa Cruise
Coastal Queen Cruises, from Newport Dec 14, 2024Holiday Cranberry Mimosa Cruise - 75 minutes long, beginning in Bowen's Wharf, Newport ($42 per… Read More
Christmas Open House at the Irish History Museum
The Museum of Newport Irish History Interpretive Center Dec 14, 2024The Museum of Newport Irish History will hold the 8th Annual Christmas Open House at its… Read More
Classical Christmas with Frisson
Emmanuel Church Dec 14, 2024Newport Classical’s community holiday celebration, Classical Christmas, returns to the English… Read More
Holiday Wreath Making Workshop
Newport Vineyards Dec 15, 2024Sip, shop & deck the halls as we host The Greek Gardener for a holiday wreath making workshop!… Read More
113th Annual Medieval Christmas Festival
St. George's School Dec 17, 2024A theatrical performance of the Biblical story of Christmas in the magnificent Gothic chapel at St… Read More
Yuletide Melodies
Provence Sur Mer Dec 18, 2024Puddingstone cordially invites you to a holiday caroling extravaganza co-hosted and sponsored by… Read More
Christmas at Blithewold Manor
Back to Top of ListEach year, Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum transforms into a sparkling display of Christmas magic to celebrate the season. Wander the elaborately decorated rooms and enjoy a glimpse into the family's Christmas and New Years traditions. (Closed December 24th and 25th)
Don't Miss: Stroll the grounds at night to catch Blithewold's newest holiday display, Sparkle! Explore the beautifully lit gardens and grounds with custom light displays, handmade bamboo ornaments, “selfie” photo opportunities, and a scavenger hunt with clues hidden throughout. Finish the night around cozy fires, s'mores kits, seasonal music, hot drinks, and so much more!
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more holiday events at blithewold
Winter Afternoon Tea
Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum Dec 13, 2024 - Jan 03, 2025We invite you for Tea in Blithewold’s festively decorated Dining Room, a place where fine meals have… Read More
Sparkle! Holiday garden gathering and fun
Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum Dec 13, 2024 - Jan 04, 2025Festive holiday fun for the entire family! Explore Blithewold’s illuminated gardens and grounds as… Read More
Music in the Living Room Concert Series at Blithewold
Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum Dec 14, 2024 - Dec 22, 2024Enhance your visit to Blithewold and enjoy the holiday decorations in the Mansion by attending our… Read More
Warren Holiday Festival
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Downtown Warren
- When:
- November 29th & 30th
Starting nearly 40 years ago, the annual Warren Holiday Festival was created to kick-off the holiday season.
Today, the event marks its 36th season with events on both Friday, November 29th and Saturday, November 30th. Events include visits from Santa paired with hot chocolate and cookies, to holiday crafts and festive shows, to downtown caroling and the iconic Main Street light ceremony.
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Lighting of the Lighthouse
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Newport Harbor Island Resort, Newport
- When:
- Saturday, November 30 at 5:00 PM
Make your way to Newport Harbor Island Resort for a lighting of the lighthouse on Saturday, November 30 at 5:00 PM.
Enjoy holiday carolers, festive decor, spiked ciders and hot chocolate for the kids, all with panoramic views of the iconic Newport Bridge. Guests and locals alike are welcome to join us in kicking off Newport’s holiday festivities!
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Hotel Viking Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Market
Back to Top of List- Where:
- The Courtyard, Hotel Viking
- When:
- Friday, November 29 from 5:00 - 8:00 PM
- Cost:
- This event is open to house guests as well as the public!
The Hotel Viking Annual Christmas Tree Lighting in the Courtyard is back!
Think: fun and festivities live music, a special visit from Santa, holiday cookies, hot chocolate and new this year, a Holiday Market, where you can start your holiday shopping early!
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A Rough Point Holiday
Back to Top of ListExperience the holiday traditions at Doris Duke’s Newport home during the coziest and merriest days of the year.
Rooms of the museum will be spruced up for the Christmas holiday, while other rooms will be cloaked in their winter coverings. Together, these spaces tell the story of Rough Point’s holiday traditions and the off-season routines of one of Newport’s summer cottages.
Tickets can be purchased here, and are free for Newport County residents.
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Holiday Bright Night in Tiverton
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Historic Tiverton Four Corners
- When:
- Friday, December 6 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM
- Cost:
- Free
Picture this: the quaint and charming Tiverton Four Corners decked in holiday decor and illuminating lights with open galleries, holiday shopping, exclusive deals and a visit from Santa.
Stay for the opening of The Four Corners Arts Center 11th Annual re-Tree Community Exhibition, adding even more lights and magic to the event.
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Bristol's Tree Lighting + Grand Illumination
Back to Top of ListBristol's Tree Lighting and Grand Illumination heralds the arrival of the holidays in downtown Bristol with live music and entertainment, a Christmas sing-a-long, a visit from Santa, the Grand Illumination of the town tree and more.
This year will feature a parade in celebration of the 37th Grand Illumination beginning at 5:30 PM, with live music from the local school choruses and a talented soloist.
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Annual Bowen's Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting
Back to Top of ListMake your way to Bowen's Wharf for an enchanting day of caroling, holiday shopping, and family fun on Saturday, December 7 for the 54th Annual Bowen's Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting.
Festivities begin at 12:30 with a visit from Santa, followed by an afternoon of live music and a carol sing-along. At 6:00 PM, head to the center of the wharf to watch as the mayor of Newport lights the tree, followed by the cheerful arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus by boat, weather permitting.
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Bristol Christmas Festival: European Marketplace
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Downtown Bristol, Burnside Building, 400 Hope St, Bristol, Ri
- When:
- December 7th & 8th
A European-style Christmas market in downtown Bristol makes its return December 7th and 8th.
This two-day festival will feature rustic huts, festival foods like holiday pastries, wine, and pretzels, live music, craft vendors and so many more seasonal favorites.
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Christmas Open House at Glen Manor House
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Glen Manor House, Portsmouth
- When:
- December 8, 2024 from 1:30 to 4:00 PM, Santa Arrives: 2:45 PM
With extraordinary decorations and Yuletide cheer, the Glen Manor House will be open to the public at their annual Christmas Open House event. Bring the family for a holiday celebration and more. Santa will arrive at 2:45 PM for pictures alongside local talent and entertainment.
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Christmas at Linden Place
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Linden Place, Bristol
- When:
- December 13th from 4:00 - 8:00 PM
Celebrate Christmas at Linden Place.
Experience a decorated mansion with a knowledgeable docent available to share insights into the mansion's rich history. Don't forget to stop in the gift shop for holiday shopping, with no ticket required to browse and purchase. Tickets for the full house experience are available for advance purchase at standard admission pricing, but visitors are welcome to shop without a ticket.
A Coggeshall Christmas
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Coggeshall Farm, Bristol
- When:
- December 14th & 15th, 21st & 22nd
- Cost:
- $20 Adult / $15 Youth (4-17)
Head to the farm to get into the holiday spirit.
Frolic through our pathway of trees, play some traditional games, and listen to a story with our life-size Christmas tree, Tinsel. Take a turn in our larger-than-life candy world game. View handmade ornaments on close to 20 trees found throughout the farm, and make a few ornaments of your own to bring home. Enjoy a gingerbread display, music, and more!
On December 21 and 22, Mason and Twine will be on the farm with their amazing mobile coffee shop, serving up delicately composed chocolates & craft espresso beverages.
Pre-registration is recommended for this event due to limited spaces. Early pre-registration by December 1 receives $2 off per person.
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more festive fun
View AllTwas the Night Before Christmas
Four readings of the Clement C. Moore poem by well known Newporters on this 201st anniversary of its…
Holiday Lantern Tour
Take a lantern-lit stroll through Newport’s historic streets and learn how early Newporters…
Hot Chocolate Bar at The Chanler
Cozy up by the fire pit or take in the breathtaking views of the Cliff Walk with a cup of our…
Advent Evenings at Historic Saint Mary's Church
Beautiful and historic Saint Mary's Church, home to Rhode Island's oldest Catholic parish, invites…
Christmas Open House at the Irish History Museum
The Museum of Newport Irish History will hold the 8th Annual Christmas Open House at its…
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