Last updated: November 11, 2024
Get a bird’s eye view of the holidays in North Providence! Our guide highlights all the key festive events and activities. For both native North Providence dwellers and eager tourists, this guide unlocks the city's holiday treasures.
Popular events include the enchanting production of Trinity Rep’s A Christmas Carol, where the cherished tale of Scrooge is brought to life on stage in a heartwarming retelling. Another spectacle is The Nutcracker at the VETS, featuring stunning choreography and beautiful music that transports audiences into a winter wonderland. And the Holiday Evenings at the Newport Mansions is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing the elegant decorations and festive spirit of these historical estates. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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North Providence Holiday Light Displays
Holiday Evenings at the Newport Mansions
Explore the grandeur of Newport Mansions during the holiday season with lavishly decorated rooms, nearly 30 exquisitely decorated Christmas trees, hundreds of poinsettias, garlands, wreaths, and fresh floral arrangements.
North Providence Holiday Markets and Shopping
Rhode Island Christmas Festival
The Rhode Island Christmas Festival is a two-day event at the West Warwick Civic Center, featuring shopping, food trucks, and live music. Santa arrives on Sunday at noon, followed by the Family Parade and Little Miss and Little Mr. Christmas pageant.
Holiday Market Sip & Shop - Newport Vineyards
Join us for the first collaboration between Newport Vineyards and Field of Artisans, featuring over 25 artisan vendors. Sip while you shop from a variety of estate-grown wines, seasonal hard ciders, and beers from Taproot Brewing Co. Enjoy our Sunday brunch menu from 10am to 2pm and our regular dining menu from 11am to 6pm.
Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market)
Christkindlmarkt is a traditional German Christmas market featuring local artisans, craftsmen, and women selling a variety of gifts. The event offers traditional food and drink, including Glühwein (mulled wine) and Goulash dinner.
North Providence Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Trinity Rep’s A Christmas Carol
Trinity Rep’s A Christmas Carol is a reimagined production of Charles Dickens' classic novella, featuring Ebenezer Scrooge's transformative journey through the supernatural. Directed by Tatyana-Marie Carlo, this holiday tradition has been a beloved New England family event for over 45 years, bringing generations together to celebrate the timeless story of redemption and joy.
The Nutcracker at the VETS
The Nutcracker at the VETS features Ballet RI's production with spectacular sets, charming characters, and delightful young dancers. This holiday spectacular includes BRAND NEW surprises and an exclusive post-show meet and greet with Nutcracker characters.
Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village
Celebrate the holiday season at Old Sturbridge Village with historic interpreters, live music, and classic Christmas projects. Stroll through the decorated village, sample sweet treats, and enjoy festive decorations.
A 1940's Radio Christmas Carol
A 1940s Radio Christmas Carol brings Charles Dickens' holiday classic to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast, complete with vintage commercials, fruitcake advertisements, and live sound effects. The handful of actors bring dozens of characters to the stage, as the familiar story unfolds with Ebenezer Scrooge's thrilling journey to learn the true meaning of Christmas.
Miracle on 34th Street
A heartwarming musical adaptation of the classic tale where a department store Santa Claus claims to be the real Kris Kringle, challenging the beliefs of those around him and ultimately proving the power of faith and Christmas spirit.
Twas the Night Before Christmas - Providence Ballet Theatre
Providence Ballet Theatre presents Twas the Night Before Christmas, a holiday performance inspired by Clement Clarke Moore's classic poem. The stage is transformed with visions of sugar plums, prancing reindeer, and swirling snow, featuring a cast of professional dancers and local children.
Holiday Carnival at Olde Mistick Village
Join us at Olde Mistick Village for a holiday celebration featuring carolers, a brass band playing holiday favorites, and Santa's special appearance. Santa's Workshop Children's Gift Store will be set up in the Meeting House, offering great gifts for family and friends.
North Providence Other Holiday Activities
Santa Pictures - Providence Place
Capture a special moment with Santa at Providence Place, where you can take memorable photos with the jolly old elf amidst a bustling shopping and dining destination.
Cruise with Coastal Queen to the Newport Illuminated Boat Parade
Join Coastal Queen as she crosses Narragansett Bay to participate in the Newport Illuminated Boat Parade. This award-winning boat, decorated with festive lights, will join other illuminated vessels in Newport Harbor, offering a unique and memorable experience.
Coastal Queen’s Candy Cane Express
The Candy Cane Express Cruise for kids offers a delightful holiday experience aboard the Coastal Queen. The boat will cruise through Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay, where Mrs. Claus will read to the children while they enjoy hot chocolate. Each child will receive a candy cane as they depart the boat.
Holiday Lantern Tour
Join an evening lantern-lit walk through historic Newport to learn about early American holiday traditions and how Newporters observed the holidays.
Santa's Arrival - Ocean Community Chamber of Commerce
Santa Claus, Winter Lady, and other holiday characters will make their debut in Dixon Square via fire trucks to bring in the Holiday Season. Free coloring books, crayons, and lollipops will be handed out to all children in attendance. Santa and friends will greet the children at this Annual Holiday Tradition. This is a free family event that may take place indoors if there is inclement weather.
Dinner with Santa - Ocean House
Join Ocean House for a special dinner with Santa and Mrs. Claus, featuring a festive buffet dinner in the Seaside Ballroom and Drawing Room. Meet both Santa and Mrs. Claus while enjoying beer and house wine for adults.
