Providence Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Providence and surrounding areas
The downtown area anchors Providence's the Christmas season with Christmas lights and Holiday lights reflecting off the rivers near WaterPlace Park and Benefit Street’s historic homes. Enjoy The Nutcracker, A Christmas Carol, and Illuminate PVD New Year's Eve Celebration and Fireworks Display for seasonal entertainment and family-friendly performances close to Trinity Square and the RISD Museum. From holiday markets to evening light displays, Providence’s winter festivities offer a rich mix of activities and attractions for visitors and residents.
Find the best Providence Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
29 eventsCity-wide holiday celebration with historic traditions
Christmas Shows
20 eventsNew England's beloved holiday tradition in an intimate theater setting.
Christmas Lights
16 eventsMillions of twinkling lights illuminating a zoo after dark.
Other Christmas Activities
32 eventsNew Year's Eve fireworks over the Providence River
Editor's Picks (6)
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Christmas in Newport
(Newport)
City-wide holiday celebration with historic traditions
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A Christmas Carol
New England's beloved holiday tradition in an intimate theater setting.
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Illuminate PVD New Year's Eve Celebration and Fireworks Display
New Year's Eve fireworks over the Providence River
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The Nutcracker
Annual holiday tradition featuring Tchaikovsky's classic ballet.
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Sparkling Lights at The Breakers
(Newport)
Holiday lights and mansion tour
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Holidays at the Newport Mansions
(Newport)
Historic Gilded Age mansions adorned for the holidays
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Parties Near Providence
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Providence.
The Chocolate Expo 2025 Rhode Island Holiday Edition
Holiday edition chocolate expo with balloon art and balloon popping party.
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Stay informed about events and activities in Providence
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Also Near Providence
Pawtucket
- 2025 Christmas is for Kids Toy Run
- Mixing with the Queens: Holiday Cocktails Edition
- Foundry Artists Holiday Show & Sale
Smithfield
- Santa Arrives and Lights Up Putnam
- Gingerbread House Contest
- Candlelight Shopping in Historic Chepachet Village
Bristol
See all in Bristol →Providence Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual events include Christmas on the Hill, the Holiday Lights Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo, and the WaterFire lightings in downtown Providence.
Providence is known for its European-style Christmas on the Hill celebration, featuring handmade Rima lights and festive street performances unique to the city.
Federal Hill and downtown Providence are especially popular for their festive light displays, with Federal Hill offering a European-inspired atmosphere.
You'll find Christmas markets and local makers at events like Christmas on the Hill, downtown Providence vendor stalls, and seasonal pop-ups throughout the city.
Free activities include strolling through holiday light displays in Federal Hill and downtown, attending public tree lightings, and enjoying caroling events around the city.
Families enjoy the Holiday Lights Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo, visits with Santa at the zoo, and festive events like Christmas on the Hill with carolers and performances.