The Magical Holidays in Newport: the Hammetts Hotel Guide to Thanksgiving through New Year’s
Exploring Newport
10.29.2024
An iconic destination throughout the year, Newport sparkles particularly brightly in the holidays, making it the ultimate home for seasonal cheer. From mid-November through New Year’s, the City by the Sea brims with winter traditions, delightful events, and a cozy winter ambiance. And with Hammetts Hotel as your base, you’ll be in the center of holiday magic—whether you’re most interested in family-friendly activities, historical heritage, or a combination of the best Newport has to offer. Here is the Hammetts Hotel guide to the best of Newport holiday traditions.
Newport Feasts: Culinary Thanksgivings & Cozy Comfort Food
For an unforgettable Thanksgiving dinner look no further than the iconic Clarke Cooke House, which serves a gourmet Thanksgiving menu in a warm, historical atmosphere. Nearby, 22 Bowen’s Wine Bar & Grille and The Mooring also offer holiday-inspired menus that pair classic New England flavors with festive flair. For more laid-back meals that still offer the utmost in coziness, check out Brick Alley Pub.
Holiday Mansions Tour: A Gilded Age Christmas
The decorations in the grand Newport mansions at Christmastime put the “gilded” in Gilded Age! The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms, in particular, come alive from mid-November through New Year’s with their holiday décor, thousands of lights, and 19th-century grandeur. Tours of the “cottages” are available and feature dazzling rooms, enormous Christmas trees, and, at The Breakers, a life-sized gingerbread house!
Christmas in Newport: A Month of Cheer
Beginning in mid-November, Christmas in Newport is a beloved annual festival that has been running for more than five decades. Featuring everything from concerts to candlelight house tours, the events focus on historic preservation and celebrate the community spirit of Newport. Some highlights include the Holiday Bazaar and performances of The Nutcracker at Rosecliff.
Santa on the Wharf: The Ultimate Meet-and-Greet
It’s true! Santa comes to Newport—specifically to Bowen’s Wharf every Saturday from Thanksgiving weekend through mid-December. The jolly old man is available for photo ops and visits with believers of all ages—all against the beautiful backdrop of Newport Harbor.
Ice Skating at Gurney’s Newport Resort
The best way to work off the hot chocolate and candy canes is with a turn around the ice at Gurney’s skating rink. The rink, which sits on the waterfront, offers skates for rent as well as refreshments for purchase. We recommend visiting after dusk for a skate under the stars and twinkling lights.
Hanukkah in Newport: Menorah Lighting at Touro Synagogue
Fun fact: The oldest synagogue in the United States is located in Newport, Rhode Island. Touro Synagogue hosts an annual Menorah Lighting in Washington Square that is open to all. Go on the first night of Hanukkah to learn about Newport’s traditions and celebrate the Festival of Lights.
Deck the Halls… With Lights!
The annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Bowen’s Wharf is a magical evening of lights, carolers and shopping local. On the hunt for treats to fill stockings or leave under the tree? Stop into Anchor Toffee, Kiel James Patrick, Monelle Newport and Scrimshanders.
Home for the Holidays: Hammetts Hotel, The Best Hotel in Newport for the Holidays
For both elegance and ease, nothing ranks higher than Hammetts Hotel for the holidays. With its vibrant waterfront location, just steps from Bowen’s Wharf and within walking distance to most holiday events, Hammetts Hotel lets you immerse yourself in Newport’s holiday magic. With beautifully designed rooms and festive décor, it’s the best hotel in Newport for a sophisticated yet homey holiday escape.