Newport, RI: Newport’s Winter Glory

Newport, Rhode Island sparkles between December and March, when the historic port city takes a step back from the excitement of summer and returns to a more easygoing cadence. It is a perfect time for visitors to enjoy this magical place, where iconic seasonal activities invite you in, and where the charm and beauty never goes away.

Christmas in Newport

Newport celebrates Christmas for the entire month of December. Now in its 54th year, the ‘Christmas in Newport’ program offers an array of incredible cultural and musical events, including a performance of Handel’s Messiah, Santa Claus visits, tree lightings, caroling, teatime and holiday dinners. It is also a way for residents, shopkeepers and local civic leaders to raise thousands of dollars to give back to charities throughout the community.

Polar Plunge

There’s no better way to greet the New Year with vigor and enthusiasm than by taking a dip in the ocean on January 1, 2025! The 21st annual Polar Plunge at Easton’s Beach is organized by the Newport Polar Bears Club. All proceeds from the swim go to A Wish Come True, which grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses in Rhode Island.

Newport Winter Festival

The 36th Annual Newport Winter Festival runs from February 14-23 and offers 10 days of live music, foodie contests, kid-centric activities and more than 150 events. It’s a perfect way to mark school vacation week, or just to soak up the family atmosphere. For the kids, there’s magicians, storytellers, a teddy bear picnic and lots of fun activities. For adults, there are live bands, craft brews and comedy shows. A fun and delicious part of the Festival is the annual Burger Bender, where local restaurants throw their buns into the ring with hopes of being crowned the Best Burger. There’s beef yes, but also seafood, chicken and plant-based burgers!

Irish Heritage Month

Newport’s Irish connections date back to the 18th century, and the Hibernian spirit has thrived ever since. During Irish Heritage Month each March, Newport offers dozens of concerts, cultural and historical events, lectures and pub and culinary activities. The highlight of the season is the 68th Annual Newport St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 15, 2025. The two-hour parade kicks off at Newport City Hall, travels down Thames Street to Carroll Avenue through the Fifth Ward and ends at St. Augustine’s Church. It’s a great family event full of Irish pride.

UPCOMING EVENTS IN NEWPORT

December 1
Nutcracker Ballet
Rosecliff Mansion

December 4
Festival of Lights
Ochre Court

December 7
Christmas by the Sea Market
Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina

December 8
Ballad of Bethlehem
First Presbyterian Church

December 14
Classical Christmas with Frisson
Emmanuel Church

January 1
Polar Bear Plunge
Easton’s Beach

February 14-23
Newport Winter Festival
Various Venues

March 1-31
Irish Heritage Month
Various venues

March 15
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Downtown Newport

DiscoverNewport.org