Founded in 1971, Christmas in Newport began as a two-week festival that celebrated the noncommercial traditions of the holiday season. Now in its 45th year, the annual program spans 30 days of celebration hosted by residents, shopkeepers and local do-gooders who raise thousands of dollars to give back to charities throughout the community. Luckily for participants, that means multiple activities for nearly each day of the December calendar.
Christmas in Newport officially kicks off on Tuesday, December 1 at 6 pm in Washington Square with an address from Mayor Jeanne-Marie Napolitano, a tree lighting, live entertainment and a cannon salute from Newport Artillery Company. The event is free and open to the public.
Arrive early to visit the Newport Historical Society’s Holiday Open House. Tour the colony house and enjoy festive music from around the world in celebration of the holiday season. 5-6 pm.
The program spans through December 31 with a robust roster of festival holiday events and happenings. The schedule below is courtesy of christmasinnewport.org
Ongoing
Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff Performance by Island Moving Company. Times and ticket prices vary.
Rosecliff Mansion, 548 Bellevue Ave. 401-847-4470. islandmovingco.org
Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest Deadline to enter is Thursday, December 10. Judging takes place on Friday, December 11. Register your home or business at info@christmasinnewport.org. Categories include: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial. Details at christmasinnewport.org
New England’s Largest Gingerbread Lighthouse The culinary staff from the Marriott Hotel has constructed a 16 foot masterpiece. Free but visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to fill the sleigh for local Community food pantries. Saturday-Thursday 9 am-4 pm and on Fridays from 9 am-5 pm.
Newport Visitor Information Center, America’s Cup Ave.
Wednesday, December 2
The Nativity of Christ Puppet Show A telling of the birth of Christ in larger-than-life black art puppetry. 7:00 pm.
The United Congregational Church of Newport, 524 Valley Rd., Middletown. 401-846-3515.
Thursday, December 3rd
Holiday Tea at the Edward King House Tea served to celebrate the holidays in the fashion of the late 1800’s. White gloves and lovely hats welcome. $5 per person. 1:30-3 pm.
35 King St., Newport. 401-846-7426. edwardkinghouse.org
8th Annual Singing for Shelter Acoustic Christmas Concert For the benefit of Lucy’s Hearth and The McKinney Shelter. $15 (children with an adult are free). For tickets call 849-4250 or mgorman20@cox.net. 7-9:30 pm.
Channing Church, 135 Pelham St.
The Nativity of Christ Puppet Show A telling of the birth of Christ in larger-than-life black art puppetry. 7:00 pm.
The United Congregational Church of Newport, 524 Valley Rd., Middletown. 401-846-3515.
Friday, December 4th
Annual Newport Hospital Auxiliary Holiday Craft & Bake Sale Handiwork and craftsmanship of local artisans and employees. Bake sale and raffle. Funds raised will go towards the purchase of a new CT scanner. 9-4 pm.
The Hill Courtyard at Newport Hospital, Powell St. 401-845-1638. discovernewport.org
Santa visits the Giant Gingerbread Lighthouse at the Newport Visitor’s Information Center Visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to fill the sleigh for local food pantries. 1-5 pm. Free.
Newport Visitor Center, 23 America’s Cup Ave.
Holiday Lantern Tour Hear the history of early American holiday traditions on an evening walking tour. Learn how colonial Newporters recognized (or didn’t) the holidays. Reservations required, 841-8770. $15 adults, $10 NHS members and active duty military with ID, $5 children ages 5-12. Weather permitting. 4:30 pm.
Departs from Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
Salve Regina University Madrigal Chorus performs at Seamen’s Church Institute, 4 pm. Free.
Seamen’s Church Institute, 18 Market Sq. 401-847-4260.
Mt. Zion Christmas Concert Local musicians come together with the Voices of Zion to celebrate ‘Jesus Is The Reason for the Season.’ Free will offering. 7 pm.
Mt. Zion Church, 31 Van Zandt Ave. 401-849-3569. sf288@aol.com
Mistletoe Madness at Glen Manor House Cocktail reception, dancing, admission TBA.7-11 pm.
3 Frank Coelho Dr., Portsmouth. 401-683-4177. info@glenmanorhouse.com
The Nativity of Christ Puppet Show A telling of the birth of Christ in larger-than-life black art puppetry. 7:00 pm.
The United Congregational Church of Newport, 524 Valley Rd., Middletown. 401-846-3515.
Saturday, December 5th
15th Annual Lucy’s Hearth Designer Wreath Sale Christmas wreaths and table top decorations created by designers, artists, gardeners and florists from the community. Also gourmet sweets bake sale. All proceeds go to Lucy’s Hearth. 9-12 pm.
Easton’s Beach Rotunda, 175 Memorial Blvd. 401-847-2021.
Santa’s Workshop $5 per child includes a goody bag, crafts, cookie decorating, one ride on the carousel, one ride on the mini train. Tickets purchased at the door, no advanced sales. noon-3 pm.
Easton’s Beach Rotunda, 175 Memorial Blvd. 401-845-5800.
45th Annual Bowen’s Wharf Tree Lighting and Open House Frosty the Snowman and caroling starting at 4:30 pm. City official lights the tree, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by boat (weather permitting) at 5:45 pm. Live Music. Free.
Bowen’s Wharf, America’s Cup Ave. 401-849-2120. info@bowenswharf.com
UnDecked Halls: Behind the Scenes at Doris Duke’s Mansion in Winter Experience the quiet house, see the decorated staff wing, and hear about Miss Duke’s tropical holiday. Learn how Rough Point’s winter caretaking traditions have remained the same for the past half century. Tour the first floor and enjoy refreshments in the staff dining room, not normally open to the public. Tours offered every ½ hour. Adults $10, children under 12 $8.
Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Ave. 401-847-8344. newportrestoration.org
Discover Colonial Newport in Winter Walking Tour Hear stories of religious diversity and entrepreneurship, and learn how Newporters made their way during Newport’s colonial winter. 11 am., sponsored by The Newport Historical Society. $15 adults, $10 for NHS Members and active duty military with ID, $5 children ages 5-12. Reservations required. Weather permitting.
Departs from the Museum at the Brick Market, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
Trinity Christmas Silver Tea Holiday high tea. $12. Noon-4 pm.
Honyman Hall, Trinity Church, Queen Anne Sq., Newport. 401-862-4474. trinitynewport.org
Christmas Cards for Mariners Drop in to warm up with hot chocolate and write a Christmas card to be delivered to men and women serving on the seas this Christmas. Free. 2-4 pm.
Seamen’s Church Institute, 18 Market Sq. 401-847-4260.
Newport County Orchestra Holiday Concert SRU Chorus and Madrigal Ensembles perform a variety of masterworks of holiday favorites. $8 general admission, $5 seniors and students. 3 pm.
Casino Theater, 9 Freebody St. 401-341-2297. davispd@salve.edu
Swanhurst Chorus presents “’Tis the Season: A Traditional Christmas,” featuring a delightful arrangement of carols old & new by Rutter, Willcocks, Vittoria, Des Pres, and others. Tickets $20 in advance, $23 at the door, and $10 for full-time students. 8 pm.
Emmanuel Church, Spring & Dearborn St. 401-682-1630. swanhurst.org
Sunday, December 6th
Visit with Santa Claus at the Breakers The jolly old elf will visit with children and hear their Christmas wish list. Refreshments. Regular daytime admission. Noon-3 pm.
44 Ochre Point Ave. 847-1000. newportmansions.org
Edward King House Annual Craft Fair Local Artisans and crafters. , 1-4 pm. Free.
35 King St. 846-7426.
Christmas at Whitehall 1730’s Festivities Seasonal music, lifting a cup of wassail and learning about our heritage. Sponsored by The National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the state of RI. Donations welcome. 2-4 pm.
Whitehall Museum House, 311 Berkeley Ave., Middletown. 401-423-0831. whitehallmuseumhouse.org
Newport Community Band Holiday Concert SRU Newport Community Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Flute Ensemble performing holiday favorites. Admission $8, $5 for students and seniors. 3 pm.
Casino Theatre, 9 Freebody St. 401-341-2295. davisp@salve.edu
Advent Service of Lessons and Carols St. John’s Church and Emmanuel Church combine choirs with The Choir School of Newport County. Free-will offering. Child friendly for ages 5 and up. 5 pm.
Church of St. John the Evangelist, 61 Washington St. at Willow St. 401-848-2561. saintjohns-newport.org
Tuesday, December 8th
Cookie Decorating at The Hampton Inn and Suites Enjoy free Christmas cookie decorating of the season for children 3 & older, accompanied by an adult. Call 848-6555 to make your reservation. 5-7 pm.
Hampton Inn and Suites, 317 West Main Rd., Middletown.
Thursday, December 10th
Newport Gallery Night Member Galleries, Museums and Cultural Institutions are open and host special events, artists, demos, etc. Free. 5-8 pm.
Throughout Newport. newportgalleries.org
Living Nativity presented by Cluny School Live animals and choral music enhance this annual reenactment of the “First Christmas” under the stars. A gift to the community expressing the true meaning of Christmas. Hot chocolate and sweets served before and after the presentation which lasts 25-30 minutes. Bring a blanket and flashlight. Free. Raindate is Dec. 16. 6 pm.
Cluny School, 75 Brenton Rd. 401-855-2252. clunyschool.org/events
Student’s Impressions of Christmas in Newport Student K-12 art exhibit, commemorative Christmas in Newport postmark, United States Postal Service. Light refreshments. Free. 5:30-7:30 pm.
Newport Yacht Club, 110 Long Wharf. 401-846-9410.
Friday, December 11th
Ladies Night & Preview Party for the Artisan Craft Fair & Boutique Sale at Potter League for Animals, 5-7 pm.
87 Oliphant Ln., Middletown. 846-0592 X116. potterleague.org
Christmas in Song by the Newport Navy Choristers Concert to benefit The Artillery Company of Newport. Admission $10 adults, children/seniors $5, family $20. 7:30pm.
St. Lucy’s Church, 909 W. Main Rd., Middletown. newportnavychoristers.org
St. George’s School Service of Lessons & Carols The birth of Jesus is told by lesson and song. Congregational singing and carols by the School choir. Free. 7:30 p.m.
372 Purgatory Rd., Middletown. 401-847-7565. stgeorges.edu
Annual Tree Lighting and Grand Opening of the Newport Skating Center Celebrate with good cheer, hot cocoa and cookies, carolers, visits with Santa and the elves, and skating performances with the Island Skating Academy. 5pm.
Newport Skating Center, America’s Cup Ave. newportskatingcenter.com
Saturday, December 12th
Christmas Treasures at Trinity Church Local artisans, seasonal items. Free. 10-4 pm.
Honyman Hall, Queen Anne Square. 401-862-4474. trinitynewport.org
UnDecked Halls: Behind the Scenes at Doris Duke’s Mansion in Winter Experience the quiet house, see the decorated staff wing, and hear about Miss Duke’s tropical holiday. Learn how Rough Point’s winter caretaking traditions have remained the same for the past half century. Tour the first floor and enjoy refreshments in the staff dining room, not normally open to the public. Tours offered every ½ hour. Adults $10, children under 12 $8.
Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Ave. 401-847-8344. newportrestoration.org
Artisan Craft Fair & Boutique Sale at Potter League for Animals. 10-5 pm.
87 Oliphant Ln., Middletown. 401-846-0592 X116. potterleague.org
Open House at the International Tennis Hall of Fame Donate a canned good for the local food bank and enjoy free admission to the museum. 10-5 pm.
194 Bellevue Ave. tennisfame.com
Discover Colonial Newport in Winter Walking Tour Hear stories of religious diversity and entrepreneurship, and learn how Newporters made their way during Newport’s colonial winter. 11 am., sponsored by The Newport Historical Society. $15 adults, $10 for NHS Members and active duty military with ID, $5 children ages 5-12. Reservations required. Weather permitting.
Departs from the Museum at the Brick Market, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
Emmanuel Church Handbell Choir performs at Seaman’s Church Institute. Free. 11 am-12 pm.
18 Market Sq. 401-847-4260.
House Tour of the Seamen’s Church Institute Behind the scenes tour of the 1930 waterfront institution, featuring chapel frescoes by artist Durr Freedley. Free. 12 pm.
18 Market Sq. 401-847-4260.
Santa at the Brick Market Place 12:30-3:30 pm. Thames St. Free
Christmas Open House at the Irish Museum View the exhibits while enjoying Celtic holiday music, eggnog and cookies. Celtic-inspired bracelets and lapel pins available for sale with proceeds to benefit the Museum – 3:30-4:30 pm., caroling by the Ancient Order of Hibernians Men Singers. Free. Noon – 4:30 pm.
The Museum of Newport Irish History Interpretive Center, 648 Lower Thames St. NewportIrishHistory.org NewportIrishHistory@gmail.com
Holiday Ornament Workshop with Lisa May at Deblois Gallery, Noon-1:30 pm. 134
Aquidneck Ave., Middletown. Must register. 401-847-9977. debloisgallery.com
Sparky’s Puppets present “Stories from Snowy Lands” for children ages 4-12 and their families. Watch Jack Frost bring a snowman to life, see a bear go ice fishing and visit a toy maker on a wintry day. No registration required. 2:30 pm.
Newport Public Library, 300 Spring St., lower level program room. 401-847-8720 X204.
A Child’s Christmas in Wales by Dylan Thomas A delightful reading of this classic holiday story with festive chamber music and carols by Aurea, the Alchemy of Music and Words. $30 general admission, $25 Seniors, $8 Students. 3 pm.
Emmanual Church, 42 Dearborn St. 401-847-0675. emmanuelnewport.org
Holiday Lantern Tour Hear the history of early American holiday traditions on an evening walking tour. Learn how colonial Newporters recognized (or didn’t) the holidays. Reservations required, 841-8770. $15 adults, $10 NHS members and active duty military with ID, $5 children ages 5-12. Weather permitting. 4:30 pm.
Departs from Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
Holiday House Tour at the Edward King House Tour of the house, classical harpist and refreshments. 6-9 pm.
35 King St. 401-846-7426.
Christmas Choral Concert Performances by the Salve Regina Department of Music, Theatre and Dance. $8 general admission, $5 for seniors/students. 8 pm.
Ochre Court, 100 Ochre Point Ave. 401-341-2295. stjean@salve.edu
Sunday, December 13th
Artisan Craft Fair & Boutique Sale at Potter League for Animals. 10-5 pm.
87 Oliphant Ln., Middletown. 401-846-0592 X116. potterleague.org
Visit with Santa Claus at Marble House The jolly old elf will visit with children and hear their Christmas wish list. Refreshments. Regular daytime admission. Noon-3 pm.
Bellevue Ave. 401-847-1000. newportmansions.org
Christmas Open House at Glen Manor House Local Talent, Santa arrives at 2:45 to greet children. Free. 2-4 pm.
3 Frank Coelho Dr., Portsmouth. 401-683-4177. info@glenmanorhouse.com
Community Chanukah Events at Touro Synagogue A history “answer hunt” for children and adults at the Loeb Visitors Center. Free and open to everyone. From 3-5 pm: a traditional Chanukah party at the Levi Gale House, 85 Touro St. Light the Chanukah candles and stay to enjoy the latkes, music, dancing, children’s entertainment and more. Free. 2pm. Reservations strongly recommended.
50 Spring St. cji@tourosynagogue.org.org
Christmas Choral Concert Performances by the Salve Regina Department of Music, Theatre and Dance. $8 general admission, $5 for seniors/students. 8 pm.
Ochre Court, 100 Ochre Point Ave. 401-341-2295. stjean@salve.edu
Traditional Christmas Tea at St. Columba’s Chapel Parish Hall Bring your friends and enjoy an oasis of calm in a busy season. $12 adults, $5 children under 12. Sittings at 3 and 4 pm.
55 Vaucluse Ave., Middletown. 401-847-5571. stcolumbaschapel.org
Blue Christmas A Community Prayer Service of Remembrance & Peace. Christmas can be a painful time for many. Discover hope and experience healing at this worship service and fellowship afterward. 4 pm.
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 525 Broadway. 401-846-9567. stpetersri@coxmail.com
St. Petersburg Men’s Ensemble (Russia) In Concert This ensemble will present a dazzling concert of Russian choral music and folk songs for the season. $20 suggested donation. 7 pm.
Emmanuel Church, 42 Dearborn St. 401-847-0675. EmmanuelNewport.org
Music of the Christmas Season Brass, Organ, handbells and vocal choir, and an opportunity to sing some favorite carols. Free. 7 pm. Rain date: December 20th.
First Presbyterian Church, Broadway at Everett St. 401-847-1749. music@fpcnewport.org
Monday, December 14th
Christmas Concert for Charity Proceeds to benefit the needy in our community. Donation of $10. Wakefield concert Band performing. 6:30 pm.
Jesus Saviour Church, 509 Broadway. 401-390-1746. http://www.jsaviour@jesussaviour.necoxmail.com
Tuesday, December 15th
Caroling on Broadway from the Colony House steps to Equality Park, Join the caroling with Christopher Carbone and the Off Broadway Neighborhood Association. Free. 3:30 pm.
401-481-5135. amy@amyhoag.com
Christmas Crafts at Homewood Suites Enjoy free Christmas craft decorating of the season, for children 3 and older accompanied by an adult.5-7 pm
348 West Main Rd., Middletown. 401-848-2700 to make your reservation.
104th Annual Medieval Christmas Pageant Candlelit service of the portrayal of the Christmas story. Free. 7:30pm.
St. George’s School Chapel, 372 Purgatory Rd., Middletown, 401-847-7565. stgeorges.edu
Wednesday, December 16th
29th Annual WADK 1540 Christmas Concert Featuring Marley Bridges Theater choral ensemble and Larry Brown’s Swinglane Orchestra. Free Admission. Donations of non-perishable food items accepted for local charities. 7 pm.
Newport Marriott, America’s Cup Ave. 401-846-1540.
Thursday, December 17th
Christmas on the Point A merry concert of organ music, caroling, and traditional reading of the Christmas Story. Suggested donation $15, seniors/students $10, children ages 5-12. Free. 7 pm.
Church of St. John the Evangelist, 61 Washington St. at Willow St. 401-848-2561. saintjohns-newport.org
Friday, December 18th
Holiday Lantern Tour Hear the history of early American holiday traditions on an evening walking tour. Learn how colonial Newporters recognized (or didn’t) the holidays. Reservations required, 841-8770. $15 adults, $10 NHS members and active duty military with ID, $5 children ages 5-12. Weather permitting. 4:30 pm.
Departs from Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
Annual Deblois Gallery Holiday Party 5-7 pm.
134 Aquidneck Ave., Middletown. 401-847-9977. debloisgallery.com
Holiday Dance party at the Edward King House No partner or dance experience necessary. $25 in advance. 7 pm.
35 King St. 401-846-7426. edwardkinghouse.org
Saturday, December 19th
UnDecked Halls: Behind the Scenes at Doris Duke’s Mansion in Winter Experience the quiet house, see the decorated staff wing, and hear about Miss Duke’s tropical holiday. Learn how Rough Point’s winter caretaking traditions have remained the same for the past half century. Tour the first floor and enjoy refreshments in the staff dining room, not normally open to the public. Tours offered every ½ hour. Adults $10, children under 12 $8.
Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Ave. 401-847-8344. newportrestoration.org
Discover Colonial Newport in Winter Walking Tour Hear stories of religious diversity and entrepreneurship, and learn how Newporters made their way during Newport’s colonial winter. 11 am., sponsored by The Newport Historical Society. $15 adults, $10 for NHS Members and active duty military with ID, $5 children ages 5-12. Reservations required. Weather permitting.
Departs from the Museum at the Brick Market, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
Hoppy Holidays at Newport Storm Brewery Annual Christmas open house celebration with guided tours, entertainment and snacks. $10 admission. 12-6 pm.
293 JT Connell Rd. rmello@newportstorm.com
Santa Claus Arrives at the Clock Tower Square Cookie decorating. Free. Noon-2 pm.
Rt. 114 in Portsmouth
Community Tree Decorating and Santa Visit at Seamen’s Church Institute Bring an ornament and help decorate the tree beginning at 1 pm. Santa arrives at 2 pm and will read a classic Christmas tale. Free.
18 Market Sq, 401-847-4260.
Holiday Lantern Tour Hear the history of early American holiday traditions on an evening walking tour. Learn how colonial Newporters recognized (or didn’t) the holidays. Reservations required, 841-8770. $15 adults, $10 NHS members and active duty military with ID, $5 children ages 5-12. Weather permitting. 4:30 pm.
Departs from Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
26th Annual Christmas in Sign Presented by The James L. Maher Center. Christmas and holiday music performed in sign language under black lights. Free. 5 pm.
Casino Theater, 9 Freebody St. 846-4600 or visit mahercenter.org.
Holiday Evening Duet at The Elms and Marble House Enjoy two houses for the price of one during this evening open house event, with live music and refreshments. $35 in advance, $45 at the door, children 6-17 $10 in advance, $15 at the door. 6-9 pm.
Bellevue Ave., 401-847-1000. newportmansions.org.
Return to Camelot at St. Mary’s Church A special Christmas themed Return to Camelot program featuring Jacqueline Bouvier and John F. Kennedy. Free; donations welcome. 7 pm.
Spring St., stmarynewport.org
23rd Annual “Messiah and Carol Sing: The Christmas Story” by Swanhurst Chorus. Handel’s Messiah as well as beloved carols. A festive “Wassail Bowl” reception will follow. Admission is $10 adults, $5 children 12 and younger, and $25 maximum per family. 7 pm.
Emmanuel Church, Spring & Dearborn Sts. 401-682-1630 or swanhurst.org
Sunday, December 20th
Visit with Santa Claus at the Elms The jolly old elf will visit with children and hear their Christmas wish list. Refreshments. Regular daytime admission. Noon – 3 pm.
Bellevue, Avenue, 401-847-1000. newportmansions.org
American Girl Holiday Party Presented by the Newport Recreation Deptartment and Edward King House. Crafts, cookie decorating, doll fashion stroll. $15 per child, adults are free. All children must be accompanied by an adult. 2-3:30 pm. Advanced reservations required.
The Edward King House Senior Center, 35 King St. 401-845-5800. Reservations are limited.
Rhode Island’s Ballet Theater Holiday Dance Concert A holiday dance show for children and families. $25 per person. 3 pm.
Stanford White Casino Theatre, 9 Freebody St. 401-847-5301. ribt-nm@cox.net
Christmas Pageant with Live Nativity Come and see the Holy Family, sing with the angels and heavenly hosts, greet the wise men and pet the sheep. Community event – refreshments served. 4-7 pm.
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 525 Broadway, 401-846-9567. stpetersri@coxmail.com
Thursday, December 24th
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES ISLAND CHURCHES
Children’s Christmas pageant with Holy Eucharist 4 pm.
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 324 East Main Rd., Portsmouth. 401-846-9700. smcportsmouth.org
Family Service with Pageant and Carols A traditional Christmas Eve Family Service. 5 pm.
St. Columba’s Chapel, 55 Vaucluse Ave. Middletown. 401-847-5571.
Christmas Eve Services with Holy Eucharist 6 pm and 9 pm.
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 324 East Main Rd., Portsmouth. 846-9700. smcportsmouth.org
Candlelit Christmas Eve Services 5 and 10 pm.
Church of St. John the Evangelist, 61 Washington St. at Willow St. 401-848-2561. saintjohns-newport.org
“Quiet Christmas” St. Columba’s Chapel A Meditative Service with acoustic guitar and keyboard accompanying carols. 7:30 pm.
55 Vaucluse Ave. Middletown. 401-847-5571.
Choral Eucharist with Choir A Traditional Christmas Eve Service. 10 pm.
St. Columba’s Chapel, 55 Vaucluse Ave. Middletown. 401-847-5571.
Friday, December 25th
Christmas Day Service with Holy Eucharist and Music 10 am.
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 324 East Main Rd., Portsmouth. 846-9700. smcportsmouth.org
WADK Radio 29th Annual Christmas Concert featuring the Larry Brown Swinglane Orchestra and the Marley Bridges Theater Company Choral Ensemble. Tune to WADK AM 1540. 9 am.
Saturday, December 26th
45th Annual Christmas in Newport Candlelight Tour of Historic Private Homes Maps available at the Newport Visitor Information Center in mid-December. $3 per house, payable at the door of each house, different houses open each day of tour. 401-741-5920. No advance reservations are necessary. 4-7 pm.
Discover Colonial Newport in Winter Walking Tour Hear stories of religious diversity and entrepreneurship, and learn how Newporters made their way during Newport’s colonial winter. 11 am., sponsored by The Newport Historical Society. $15 adults, $10 for NHS Members and active duty military with ID, $5 children ages 5-12. Reservations required. Weather permitting.
Departs from the Museum at the Brick Market, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
Holiday Lantern Tour Hear the history of early American holiday traditions on an evening walking tour. Learn how colonial Newporters recognized (or didn’t) the holidays. Reservations required, 841-8770. $15 adults, $10 NHS members and active duty military with ID, $5 children ages 5-12. Weather permitting. 4:30 pm.
Departs from Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
Sunday, December 27th
45th Annual Christmas in Newport Candlelight Tour of Historic Private Homes Maps available at the Newport Visitor Information Center in mid-December. $3 per house, payable at the door of each house, different houses open each day of tour. 401-741-5920. No advance reservations are necessary. 4-7 pm.
Christmas Lessons and Carols Hear the stories of the season, sing your favorite carols at this combined service, followed by an open house at the rectory. 9 am.
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 324 East Main Rd., Portsmouth. 401-846-9700. smcportsmouth.org
Road to Independence History Walking Tour Riots and rebellions, enemies and allies. Learn about Newport’s role in the American Revolution. $15 adults, $10 NHS members and active duty military with ID. $5 children ages 5-12. Reservations required. Weather permitting. 11 am.
Departs from the Museum at the Brick Market, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
Christmas on Historic Hill: A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols A candlelight service featuring the choir and clergy of Trinity Church. Free will offering. 4 pm.
Trinity Church, One Queen Anne Sq. 401-846-0660. trinitynewport.org
Monday, December 28th
45th Annual Christmas in Newport Candlelight Tour of Historic Private Homes Maps available at the Newport Visitor Information Center in mid-December. $3 per house, payable at the door of each house, different houses open each day of tour. 401-741-5920. No advance reservations are necessary. 4-7 pm.
Rogues & Scoundrels History Walking Tour See where scoundrels lived, pirates profited and criminals were punished. Find out why this colony was known as “Rogue’s Island.” $15 per person, $10 for NHS members and active duty military with ID, $5 children ages 5-12. Reservations required. Weather Permitting. 11 am.
Departs from the Museum at the Brick Market, 127 Thames St. 401-841-8770. newporthistory.org
Tuesday, December 29th
UnDecked Halls: Behind the Scenes at Doris Duke’s Mansion in Winter Experience the quiet house, see the decorated staff wing, and hear about Miss Duke’s tropical holiday. Learn how Rough Point’s winter caretaking traditions have remained the same for the past half century. Tour the first floor and enjoy refreshments in the staff dining room, not normally open to the public. Tours offered every ½ hour. Adults $10, children under 12 $8.
Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Ave. 401-847-8344. newportrestoration.org
Wednesday, December 30th
Lessons and Carols at St. Mary’s Church Readings and carols for the Christmas season, as well as festive choral music from the Gregorian chant to modern compositions, sung by St. Mary’s Parish Choirs and guest singers. Free. 7 pm.
St. Mary’s Church, Spring St. stmarynewport.org