Founded in 1971, Christmas in Newport began as a two-week festival that celebrated the noncommercial traditions of the holiday season. Now in its 40th year, the annual program boasts multiple activities for nearly each day of the December calendar.

In a community collaboration among residents, businesses and the city, only clear bulbs illuminate the scenic harbor and wharves, the restored colonials of the Point and Historic Hill sections, and the Victorian splendor of Bellevue Avenue.

The lights are meant to simulate candlelight, and are the brainchild of Christmas in Newport founder Ruth Myers, who wished to recapture the candlelit holidays of bygone days. With a volunteer base numbering 1500, the non-profit organization, Christmas in Newport, raises thousands of dollars for charity each year. In keeping with the true spirit of the season, any event listed in the annual program must be free of charge or must benefit a non-profit institution or charity.

For more information about Christmas in Newport, call our hot line at  (401) 849-6454, or visit our web site at http://www.christmasinnewport.org/ (courtesy of CC inspire)  For a listing of accommodations in the Newport area, please write the Gateway Information Center at 23 America's Cup Avenue or call (800) 326-6030.

2010 Christmas in Newport

Calendar of Events
  Denotes Children's and family events

December 1st - Wednesday
	Official Opening of Christmas in Newport, 6 p.m., Washington Sq. Features proclamation from the Mayor, tree lighting, Newport Artillery cannon salute, live entertainment. Free. 849-6454. www.christmasinnewport.org
	The Newport Historical Society’s Holiday Open House, Newport Colony House, Washington Square, 5-6 p.m. Tour the Colony House and exhibit, Hand Written History: Correspondence of Great Americans, featuring written or signed correspondence by George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and more, before the Official Opening Ceremony of Christmas in Newport. Donations welcome. 846-0813 or 841-8770.
	Festival of Lessons & Carols, St. John’s Church, Washington & Willow Sts. 6 p.m. The Schola Cantorum of St. John’s will offer its Annual Festival of Advent Lessons & Carols. The service is patterned after that presented at King’s College, Oxford. Free-will offering. 848-2561 or www.saintjohns-newport.org
	Island Moving Company Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff, 548 Belleview Ave. 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Be a part of the story as you follow the dazzling performers through the spectacular setting of Newport’s most romantic mansion. $75 Golden Circle, $60 Silver seating, $35 child pillow seating for 10 yrs. & younger. 847-4470. http://www.islandmovingco.org
December 2nd - Thursday
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is Thursday, December 16 to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 17th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
	CANCELLED: Murder at the Museum, 7p.m., Newport Art Museum’s John N.A. Griswold House, 76 Bellevue Ave. Family-friendly interactive mystery performed by the Marley Bridges Theatre Co. Museum member adults $20, non-members adults $30; Museum member youth (17 and under) $10, non-member youth $15. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
	Island Moving Company Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff, 548 Belleview Ave. 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. See Dec.1 for details.
	Holiday Open House and Tree Lighting at 41°N, Sparkling Lights, Santa Claus, and the Swanhurst Chorus. Sample complimentary hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and hot cocoa. 5:30PM. 351 Thames Street, www.41north.com
December 3rd - Friday
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., departs Newport Station, 19 America’s Cup Ave. Share the magic as the Conductor reads the Chris Van Allsburg classic tale of a young boy’s unforgettable journey to the North Pole. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, caroling, hot chocolate and cookies, and a special gift for every child who truly believes. Reservations required. Adults $29.95, Children $19.95. 841-8700. www.newportdinnertrain.com
	Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport, departing from the Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St., 5 p.m. Discover the authentic history of Newport holiday traditions on a lantern-lit stroll through the exquisitely preserved streets of downtown Newport. See where some colonial Newporters celebrated Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukah and New Year as early as the 1700s, and learn why other Newporters scorned such celebrations. $12 adults, $8 NHS members & children. Reservations recommended. Weather Permitting. 841-8770.
	Holiday Critter Glitter Jewelry Preview Party at Potter League for Animals, 6-8 p.m., 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. Sale of jewelry benefits the Potter League. Refreshments. Tickets $25 per person. 846-8276.
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is Thursday, December 16 to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 17th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
	Island Moving Company Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff, 548 Belleview Ave. 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. See Dec.1 for details.
December 4th - Saturday
	Annual Craft Faire at the Edward King House Senior Center, 9-3 p.m., 35 King St. Free admission. 846-7426.
	Family Tour and Art Project, 10-11:30 a.m., Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave. Museum member families $14, non-member families $18. Price includes cost of admission. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
	“A Winter’s Tail,” 11 a.m. to noon or 1-2 p.m., Newport Public Library – Friends Bookstore, Spring St. For children 5-9 yrs. They will read seasonal tales to a Potter League trained “Reading Fur Fun” dog. Enjoy crafts and refreshments while waiting to read to the dogs. Free. (401)619-5660.
	Santa’s Workshop, noon-3p.m., Easton’s Beach Carousel & Rotunda. Fun afternoon for families to enjoy crafts, ride the carousel and visit with Santa who arrives by fire truck at 12:30p.m. $5 per child includes a goody bag and 1 ride on the carousel and 1 ride on the mini-train. Refreshments. Admission limited due to space capacity. 845-5800.
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 3 for details.
	10th Annual Lucy’s Hearth Designer Wreath Sale, 9-1 p.m., Rotunda at Easton’s Beach. Christmas wreaths and table top decorations created by designers, artists, gardeners and florists from the community. All proceeds go to Lucy’s Hearth. 848-7515.
	CANCELLED: St. John’s Christmas Bazaar, corner of Washington & Willow Sts., 10-2 p.m. Crafts, baked goods, holiday items and more! Free. 848-2561 or www.saintjohns-newport.org
	Holiday Craft Fair at Potter League for Animals, 10-4 p.m., 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. Free admission. 846-8276.
	UnDecked Halls: A Glimpse Behind the Shutters at Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Ave., 10-3 p.m. (last tour at 2:30) Enjoy an authentic view inside heiress Doris Duke’s Newport mansion in the winter. Experience the quiet house, decorated staff wing, hear about Miss Duke’s tropical holiday spent in Hawaii, and learn how Rough Point’s winter caretaking traditions have remained the same for the past half century. The tour is of the first floor of the house and refreshments are served. $10 adults, $8 children under 12 yrs. Tickets sold at the door. 847-8344. liz@newportrestoration.org
	Keeping Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. Glimpse the simple Christmas festivities of the early 1800s in a Federal-style Newport home. Meet the two Whitehorne daughters and learn about the history of the holiday and why some less tolerant colonies had outlawed holiday celebrations. Sample one of Mrs. Whitehorne’s desserts and take away a booklet of authentic colonial recipes. $5 per person, children under 5 are free. 847-2448. liz@newportrestoration.org
	Keeping Warm In The Colonial Period, Historic House Tour of Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House, tour departs from the Museum at the Brick Market, 127 Thames St., 11:30 a.m., sponsored by the Newport Historical Society. Hear the house’s unique history and learn how 18th century residents made their way through the winter. Admission $15 per person, $10 for NHS members. Reservations required. 841-8770.
	Trinity Christmas Silver Tea and Boutique, Honyman Hall, Trinity Church, Queen Anne Sq., 1-4p.m. Tea, crafts and seasonal greens. $8. 846-0660.
	Swanhurst Chorus “Queen of Heaven” Christmas Choral Concert, St. John’s Church, Washington & Willow Sts., 7:30 p.m. with a pre-concert lecture at 7 p.m. The evening will feature the works of Mozart in honor of the Virgin Mary. Tickets are $20 in advance, $23 at the door, and $10 for full-time students. Tickets and info at 682-1630 or www.Swanhurst.org
	40th Annual Bowen’s Wharf Tree Lighting and Open House, America’s Cup Ave., 4:30p.m. Frosty The Snowman and caroling, City Official lights the tree, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by boat (weather permitting)at 5:45p.m. Free. 849-2120. www.bowenswharf.com
	Salve Regina University’s 34th Annual Governor’s Ball, Ochre Court, 100 Ochre Point Ave. $150 per person, corporate sponsorship available also. Black tie gala with proceeds benefiting Salve Regina’s scholarship fund. 401-341-2381 or muredduc@salve.edu
	Holiday Evenings at The Breakers, 6-8 p.m.. Live holiday music and refreshments. Adults $28 in advance, $35 at the door, Children 6-17 yrs. $10. 847-1000 for reservations. www.newportmansions.org
December 5th - Sunday
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 3 for details.
	Keeping Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. Glimpse the simple Christmas festivities of the early 1800s in a Federal-style Newport home. Meet the two Whitehorne daughters and learn about the history of the holiday and why some less tolerant colonies had outlawed holiday celebrations. Sample one of Mrs. Whitehorne’s desserts and take away a booklet of authentic colonial recipes. $5 per person, children under 5 are free. 847-2448. liz@newportrestoration.org
	Holiday Craft Fair at Potter League for Animals, 10-4 p.m., 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. Free admission. 846-8276.
	Christmas at Whitehall, “A 1730’s Christmas”, 2-4 p.m., Whitehall Museum House, 311 Berkeley Ave., Middletown. A colonial Christmas party, candle-lit tours of the historic home of George Berkeley, wassail, cookies and music of the period. Sponsored by The National Society of the Colonial Dames of America. Free, donations accepted. 849-3672. www.whitehallmuseumhouse.org
	“Deck the Hall”, 5:30 p.m., at the International Tennis Hall of Fame & Museum, 194 Bellevue Ave. Annual outdoor tree lighting ceremony with caroling by the Cluny School Choir and refreshments. Free. 849-3990 or visit www.tennisfame.com
	Visit with Santa Claus at The Breakers, noon – 3 p.m., 44 Ochre Point Ave. The jolly old elf will visit with children and hear their Christmas wish list. Refreshments. Regular daytime admission. For info 847-1000. www.newportmansions.org.
	CANCELLED: Vanderbilt Hall Vintage Open House: 11 am – 5 pm, 41 Mary St. Vanderbilt Hall will open their doors for the public to see what Peter de Savary has done to the mansion. The Vanderbilt Hall Cigarette Girls will serve house-made Christmas cookies and Snugglers to enjoy while the mansion staff will provide tours of the property, with special emphasis on Peter de Savary’s priceless American Illustration art collection. The Vanderbilt Spa, will provide mini-treatments and various Newport retailers will showcase their holiday gifts. From 2pm-3pm, Destination Chocolate will provide a complimentary fine chocolate tasting. Free 619-3522
	"The Polar Express" movie, will be shown free of charge with the donation of a canned food item, 2 p.m. at the Jane Pickens Theatre.   Sponsored by Memorial Funeral Home.  For more info call: 846-0698.
December 6th - Monday
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is Thursday, December 16 to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 17th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
	Holiday Gingerbread House, 8 a.m.-9 p.m., open daily at The Newport Marriott Hotel, 25 America’s Cup Ave. Free with canned good donation for charity. 849-1000.
December 7th - Tuesday
	All in A Chord, Woman’s Barbershop Chorus, 1:30 p.m., Edward King House Senior Center, 35 King St. Limited Seating. $5 for members, $8 for non-members. 846-7426.
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is Thursday, December 16 to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 17th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
December 8th - Wednesday
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is Thursday, December 16 to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 17th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
	Potter League for Animals “Candlelight Memorial Celebration,” 6:30 p.m. at the Potter League for Animals, 87 Oliphant Land, Middletown. Come celebrate all the animals that have touched your life. Refreshments. $10 donation at the door is appreciated. RSVP to Susan at 846-0592 or susanr@potterleague.org.
	Christmas Acoustic Concert, 7-9:30p.m., Channing Memorial Church, 135 Pelham St. Many of the area’s fine musicians will perform acoustic music for the benefit of Lucy’s Hearth and the McKinney Shelter. $10 donation. Advance tickets @849-4250 or MGorman20@cox.net. Limited tickets at the door.
December 9th - Thursday
	Meet the Artist Kim Salerno – Gallery Talk, 5:30 p.m., Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave. Free. The Museum is open free of charge 5-8 p.m. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
	MUSE Reception, 5-7 p.m., Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave. MUSE exhibition curated by high school students. Free. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
	Student’s Impressions of Christmas in Newport of 2010, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Newport Yacht Club, Long Wharf. Art show by Newport Schools K-12 grade students and US Postal Service commemorative postmark for Christmas in Newport. Free. 846-9410 or 846-5843.
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is Thursday, December 16 to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 17th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
	Murder at the Museum, 7p.m., Newport Art Museum’s John N.A. Griswold House, 76 Bellevue Ave. Family-friendly interactive mystery performed by the Marley Bridges Theatre Co. Museum member adults $20, non-members adults $30; Museum member youth (17 and under) $10, non-member youth $15. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
December 10th - Friday
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 3 for details.
	Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport, departing from the Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St., 5 p.m. See Dec. 3 for details.
	Christmas in Song by the Newport Navy Choristers, 7:30 p.m., St. Lucy’s Church, 909 W. Main Rd., Middletown. Concert to benefit Potter League for Animals. Admission $10 adults, $6 children under 12 & seniors, $20 family. www.newportnavychoristers.org 849-1135.
	St. George’s School, Service of Nine Lessons and Carols, 372 Purgatory Rd., Middletown, 7:30 p.m. The birth of Jesus is told by lesson and song. Congregational singing and carols by the School choir. Free. 847-7565. www.stgeorges.edu
	30th Annual Newport Yachting Center Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Sovereign Bank Family Skating Center, 5:30 p.m., America’s Cup Ave. Music, ice skating, carols, refreshments, Santa and Mrs. Claus and other surprises. Free. 846-1600. www.skatenewport.com
December 11th - Saturday
	Redwood Library and Athenaeum Holiday Open House, 11-3p.m., 50 Bellevue Ave. Music, entertainment, refreshments for children and adults, as well as tours of the historic Library. Free and open to the public. 847-0292. www.redwoodlibrary.org/events.
	Newport County Inn’s Bed and Breakfast Christmas Tours, 3-7 p.m., various Inns around Newport, inns locations to be announced. Tickets can be purchased at the Newport Visitors Center or at the first house each day of the tour. Light refreshments served. $10 for one day. 855-8701 or visit www.NewportInns.com.
	Victorian Christmas Feast, 7 p.m., Newport Art Museum’s John N.A. Griswold House, 76 Bellevue Ave. Dinner theatre with a Victorian theme performed by the Marley Bridges Theatre Co. Museum members $100, non-members $125. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 3 for details.
	UnDecked Halls: A Glimpse Behind the Shutters at Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Ave., 10-3 p.m. (last tour at 2:30) See Dec. 4 for details.
	Keeping Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. See Dec. 4 for details. 849-1135.
	Keeping Warm In The Colonial Period, Historic House Tour of Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House, tour departs from the Museum at the Brick Market, 127 Thames St., 11:30 a.m. See Dec. 4 for details.
	Visit from Santa Claus and Reading of Night Before Christmas, International Tennis Hall of Fame & Museum, 194 Bellevue Ave., 3 p.m. Adults $16. Children 16 yrs. and younger are free. 849-3990. www.tennisfame.com
	Christmas In “Sign”, sponsored by the James L. Maher Center, 4p.m., Casino Theatre. Christmas songs and dances performed in black light and in sign language. 846-0340. $6 adults, $4 for children. 846-0340 X109 or http:www.ovationtix.dom/trs/pr/778955 for tickets & info.
	The Invisible Church Concert, 7 p.m., Community Baptist Church, 50 Dr. M.F. Wheatland Blvd. A celebration of the endurance and spirit of the “Invisible Church.” Come and share the rich history of songs that tell the story of Black America. Free will offering. 847-1707 or (401)225-0848.
	Christmas Choral Concert, 8 p.m., Salve Regina University, Ochre Court, 100 Ochre Point Ave. SRU Chorus, Madrigals. $8 general admission, $5 seniors and students. 401-341-2295.
	Holiday Evenings at The Breakers, 6-8 p.m.. Live holiday music and refreshments. Adults $28 in advance, $35 at the door, Children 6-17 yrs. $10. 847-1000 for reservations. www.newportmansions.org
December 12th - Sunday
	Newport County Inn’s Bed and Breakfast Christmas Tours, 2-5 p.m., various Inns around Newport, inns locations to be announced. Tickets can be purchased at the Newport Visitors Center or at the first house each day of the tour. Light refreshments served. $10 for one day. 855-8701 or visit www.NewportInns.com.
	Music in the Galleries – Holiday Concert with the Navy Band Northeast’s Woodwind Quintet, Crosswinds, 2 p.m., Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave. Free. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 3 for details.
	Keeping Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. See Dec. 4 for details.
	Christmas Open House, 2-4 p.m., Glen Manor House, 3 Frank Coelho Dr., Portsmouth. Local entertainment. Free. 683-4177.
	The Newport Community Band at Salve Regina University Concert, 3 p.m., Casino Theatre, 9 Freebody St. Symphonic Band performing holiday favorites. Admission $8, $5 for students and seniors. 401-341-2295.
	Visit with Santa Claus at Marble House, noon – 3 p.m., Bellevue Ave. The jolly old elf will visit with children and hear their Christmas wish list. Refreshments. Regular daytime admission. For info 847-1000. www.newportmansions.org.
December 13th - Monday
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is Thursday, December 16 to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 17th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
	"A Living Nativity" presented by Cluny School, 75 Brenton Rd., 6:00pm. Live animals and choral music will enhance this annual reenactment of the "first Christmas" under the stars. A gift to the community expressing the true meaning of Christmas. Please bring a blanket and flashlight. In the event of bad weather, the Living Nativity will be presented on Dec. 20. Free. 841-9753, clunyschool.org
	Holiday Gingerbread House, 8 a.m.-9 p.m., open daily at The Newport Marriott Hotel, 25 America’s Cup Ave. Free with canned good donation for charity. 849-1000.
December 14th - Tuesday
	Nutmeg and Mistletoe Concert, 7:00p.m., Ocean Cliff ballroom, Ocean Dr. New England’s best musical performers come together in a concert of holiday music to benefit the Matthew Quinn Scholarship at Rogers High School. Admission $15. 683-6565. dicklupinomusic@gmail.com
	Rogers High School Winter Concert, 7:00p.m., Rogers High School, 15 Wickham Rd. Donations accepted at the door. 847-6235.
	The Newport County Orchestra Holiday Concert, sponsored by the Salve Regina Music Department, 7:30p.m., Casino Theatre, 9 Freebody St. Admission $8, $5 for students and seniors. 401-341-2295.
	99th Annual Medieval Christmas Pageant, St. George’s School Chapel, 372 Purgatory Rd., Middletown, 7:30 p.m. Candlelit service of the portrayal of the Christmas story. Free. 847-7565. www.stgeorges.edu
December 15th - Wednesday
	23rd Annual WADK-AM/WJZS-FM Christmas Concert, 7 p.m., Newport Marriott Hotel Atrium, 25 America’s Cup Ave. Free, canned food donation requested to benefit local charity. 846-1540.
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is Thursday, December 16 to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 17th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
	Thompson Middle School Winter Concert, 7:00p.m., Thompson Middle School, 55 Broadway. Donations accepted at the door. 847-1493.
December 16th - Thursday
	Victorian Christmas presented by Sneak Peak Productions, 1:30 p.m., Edward King House Senior Center, 35 King St. Limited Seating. $5 members, $8 non-members. 846-7426.
	CANCELLED: Murder at the Museum, 7p.m., Newport Art Museum’s John N.A. Griswold House, 76 Bellevue Ave. Family-friendly interactive mystery performed by the Marley Bridges Theatre Co. Museum member adults $20, non-members adults $30; Museum member youth (17 and under) $10, non-member youth $15. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is TODAY, to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 17th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
	Holiday Gingerbread House, 8 a.m.-9 p.m., open daily at The Newport Marriott Hotel, 25 America’s Cup Ave. Free with canned good donation for charity. 849-1000.
December 17th - Friday
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 3 for details.
	Victorian Christmas Feast, 7 p.m., Newport Art Museum’s John N.A. Griswold House, 76 Bellevue Ave. Dinner theatre with a Victorian theme performed by the Marley Bridges Theatre Co. Museum members $100, non-members $125. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
	Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport, departing from the Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St., 5 p.m. See Dec. 3 for details.
December 18th - Saturday
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 3 for details.
	Glitter & Gold, A Gilded Age Holiday Concert at the Stanford White Casino Theatre, 8p.m., 9 Freebody St. Step back into the 1890s when Theatre Street Productions presents a living history concert of operatic and holiday favorites. Tickets $30 per person. 341-2250 or http://www.ovationtix.com/trs/pe/8436295. Proceeds benefit Salve Regina’s Theatre Arts Program. For more info www.theatrestreetproductions.com
	UnDecked Halls: A Glimpse Behind the Shutters at Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Ave., 10-3 p.m. (last tour at 2:30) See Dec. 4 for details.
	Keeping Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. See Dec. 4 for details.
	18th Annual Messiah & Carol Sing: “The Christmas Story”, 7 p.m., Emmanuel Church, Spring & Dearborn Sts. Shanhurst Chorus will feature much of the Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah and the telling of the Christmas Story. Bring your own score and sing along. Wassail Bowl reception following. Admission $10, $5 for children 12 and under, and $25 maximum per family. 682-1630 or www.Swanhurst.org.
	Holiday Evening Duet at the Elms and Marble House, 6-8 p.m. See two houses for the price of one. Take a leisurely self-guided evening stroll through both Marble House and The Elms, enjoy live holiday music and refreshments. Adults $28 in advance, $35 at the door, Children 6-17 yrs. $10. 847-1000 for reservations. www.newportmansions.org Please note, daytime tour tickets are not valid for Holiday Evening admission.
	"Hoppy" Holiday Party, 12-5pm, the NEW Newport Storm Brewery. Fresh beer on tap, brewmaster tours, hot rum drinks, a ‘cook-off’ of foods made with Newport Storm Beer and Thomas Tew Rum, and the launch of two new Newport Storm ales! $10 for adults and free for children. Proceeds support Coastal Extreme Brewing's charitable giving program. www.NewportStorm.com 401-849-5232
	Holly Days, In honor of the 60th Anniversary of the Sanctuary, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. for a day full of holiday fun. Entrance fee includes story time by the fire, face painting, children’s crafts, hot cocoa & cider, cookie decorating, live animal presentations, interpretive hikes, roasting marshmallows by the fire, a gingerbread competition, a visit from Santa, and much more. Pre-registration is strongly recommended. For additional information and a complete schedule of the day’s activities, please visit www.normanbirdsanctuary.org or call 401-846-2577.
December 19th - Sunday
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 3 for details.
	FILLED - American Girl Christmas, 1-3p.m., Edward King Senior Center. Storytelling, crafts, refreshments, Doll Fashion Stroll. Admission limited due to space capacity. $10 per couple (1 adult/1 child) and $5 for each additional child. 845-5800. Sponsored by Newport Recreation Dept and Edward King Sr. Center. Due to tremendous response to this new “Christmas in Newport” family event titled “American Girl Christmas Party” there are no more openings for new reservations or drop-ins.
	Keeping Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. See Dec. 4 for details.
	“Christmas On Historic Hill,” Service of Lessons and Carols, Trinity Church, Queen Anne Sq. Time 4 p.m. A candlelight service featuring the musicians of Trinity Church. Free will offering. 846-0660. www.trinitynewport.org
	Visit with Santa Claus at The Elms, noon – 3 p.m., Bellevue Ave. The jolly old elf will visit with children and hear their Christmas wish list. Refreshments. Regular daytime admission. For info 847-1000. www.newportmansions.org.
	The Nativity Story movie, 2 p.m., Jane Pickens Theater, sponsored by St. Paul's United Methodist Church. Canned goods donation for local food pantry is requested for admission to this event. Free popcorn. Seating limited to 300. 846-0966.
December 20th - Monday
	Holiday Gingerbread House, 8 a.m.-9 p.m., open daily at The Newport Marriott Hotel, 25 America’s Cup Ave. Free with canned good donation for charity. 849-1000.
December 21st - Tuesday
	Lunch with the Artist: Versions of the Nativity: Art in an Envelope, 12 p.m., Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave. Discussion over lunch about seasonal cards, hosted by Richard Tyre. Bring a lunch. Free for Museum members, $5 for non-members. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
December 22nd - Wednesday
	Holiday Gingerbread House, 8 a.m.-9 p.m., open daily at The Newport Marriott Hotel, 25 America’s Cup Ave. Free with canned good donation for charity. 849-1000.
December 23rd - Thursday
	A Reading of Night Before Christmas for families, 2 p.m., Edward King House Senior Center, 35 King St. Free. 846-7426.
December 24th - Friday
	CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES ISLAND CHURCHES
	Candlelight Christmas Eve service at Newport Congregational Church, 73 Pelham St. at corner of Spring St. 6 p.m. 849-2238. NCCUCC@Newportcongregationalchurch.org
	The Church of S. Jon the Evangelist presents A Festival of Lessons and Carols for Christmas on Friday, Christmas Eve, December 24 at 4 PM At the corner of Washington and Willow Streets on the Point in Newport This service, modelled upon the traditional Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols first held on Christmas Eve in 1918 at King's College Chapel in Cambridge, England, has been described as one that "presents the Christmas story in an ambience of mystery, splendor, hope and joy". Free and open to the public; a free-will offering will be taken.
December 25th - Saturday
	A JOYOUS CHRISTMAS TO ALL
December 26th - Sunday
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave. Ride along scenic Narragansett Bay in antique railroad coaches, decorated, enclosed and heated. Adults $7.50, Seniors $6, Children $5, first class $11. 401-624-6951.
	40th Annual Christmas in Newport Candlelight Tour of Historic Private Homes, 4-7 p.m. 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)293-0965. Please, no children under 10 years of age allowed on tour.
December 27th - Monday
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave. Ride along scenic Narragansett Bay in antique railroad coaches, decorated, enclosed and heated. Adults $7.50, Seniors $6, Children $5, first class $11. 401-624-6951.
	40th Annual Christmas in Newport Candlelight Tour of Historic Private Homes, 4-7 p.m. 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)293-0965. Please, no children under 10 years of age allowed on tour.
December 28th - Tuesday
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave. Ride along scenic Narragansett Bay in antique railroad coaches, decorated, enclosed and heated. Adults $7.50, Seniors $6, Children $5, first class $11. 401-624-6951.
	40th Annual Christmas in Newport Candlelight Tour of Historic Private Homes, 4-7 p.m. 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)293-0965. Please, no children under 10 years of age allowed on tour.
December 29th - Wednesday
	UnDecked Halls: A Glimpse Behind the Shutters at Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Ave., 10-3 p.m. (last tour at 2:30) Enjoy an authentic view inside heiress Doris Duke’s Newport mansion in the winter. Experience the quiet house, decorated staff wing, hear about Miss Duke’s tropical holiday spent in Hawaii, and learn how Rough Point’s winter caretaking traditions have remained the same for the past half century. The tour is of the first floor of the house and refreshments are served. $10 adults, $8 children under 12 yrs. Tickets sold at the door. 847-8344. liz@newportrestoration.org
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave. Ride along scenic Narragansett Bay in antique railroad coaches, decorated, enclosed and heated. Adults $7.50, Seniors $6, Children $5, first class $11. 401-624-6951.
December 30th - Thursday
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave. Ride along scenic Narragansett Bay in antique railroad coaches, decorated, enclosed and heated. Adults $7.50, Seniors $6, Children $5, first class $11. 401-624-6951.
	Murder at the Museum, 7p.m., Newport Art Museum’s John N.A. Griswold House, 76 Bellevue Ave. Family-friendly interactive mystery performed by the Marley Bridges Theatre Co. Museum member adults $20, non-members adults $30; Museum member youth (17 and under) $10, non-member youth $15. 848-8200. www.newportartmuseum.org
December 31st - Friday
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave. Ride along scenic Narragansett Bay in antique railroad coaches, decorated, enclosed and heated. Adults $7.50, Seniors $6, Children $5, first class $11. 401-624-6951.

ADDITIONAL ATTRACTIONS

Belcourt Castle, 657 Bellevue Ave. Guided tours hourly on Saturdays in Dec. between 11-4 p.m. Guided tours on Sundays in Dec. at 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. Adults $15, Seniors and college students $10, student 13-18 yrs $7, child 6-12 yrs. $5, child under 6 free.
Champagne Candlelight Tour, 6 p.m. on Sundays, Mondays & Fridays during the month of Dec. Admission $18. 846-0669.
www.Belcourtcastle.org

Holiday Gingerbread House, starting Dec. 7th - 8 a.m.-9 p.m., open daily at The Newport Marriott Hotel, 25 America’s Cup Ave. Free with canned good donation for charity. 849-1000.

International Tennis Hall of Fame and Museum, Newport Casino, Bellevue Ave. Open 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission. 849-3990. www.tennisfame.com.

Newport Historical Society Museum and Library, 82 Touro St. Open Tuesday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 9:30 a.m. – noon. 846-0813.

Newport Yachting Center/Sovereign Bank Family Skating Center. Daily skating, skate rental available. Admission. 846-1600 x209.

Potter League for Animals Holiday Critter Glitter Jewelry Sale, 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. Dec 5-13 from 10-5 p.m. Free admission. 846-8276.

Preservation Society of Newport County,, Bellevue Ave. The Breakers, Ochre Point Ave.; The Elms, Bellevue Ave.; Marble House, Bellevue Ave. Three great houses adorned with period-inspired ornaments, elaborate yuletide decorations, fresh flowers, trees, wreaths and garlands. The Breakers 9-last tour at 4 p.m., The Elms and Marble House 10-last tour at 4 p.m. Admission. All three houses $28 adult, $9 children 6-17 yrs. For more info 847-1000 or www.newportmansions.org Properties closed Christmas Day.

Holiday Evening at The Breakers, Dec 4 & 11. Live holiday music and refreshments. 6-8 p.m. Adults $28 in advance, $35 at the door, Children 6-17 yrs. $10. 847-1000 for reservations. www.newportmansions.org

Holiday Evening Duet at the Elms and Marble House , Dec 18. See two houses for the price of one. 6-9 p.m. Take a leisurely self-guided evening stroll through both Marble House and The Elms, enjoy live holiday music and refreshments. Adults $28 in advance, $35 at the door, Children 6-17 yrs. $10. 847-1000 for reservations. www.newportmansions.org Please note, daytime tour tickets are not valid for Holiday Evening admission.

Redwood Library, 50 Bellevue Ave. Open Monday, Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Tuesday – Thursday from 9:30 a.m. – 8 p.m., and Sunday from 1 – 5 p.m. 847-0292.

Sovereign Bank Family Skating Center, America’s Cup Ave. Outdoor waterfront skating facility, skate rentals, concessions, lessons available. Starting mid-December. $7 adults, $5 children 3-11 and seniors 55+.

The Newport Historical Society's Museum of Newport History at the Brick Market, 127 Thames St, Washington Sq. Open M-Thur 10-6 p.m., Fri-Sat 10-8 p.m. Sunday 10-5 p.m. Admission is by donation. 841-8770.

Trinity Church, Queen Anne Square. Open Sundays from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. $2 donation suggested. 846-0660.

Victorian Christmas Tours, Astors’ Beechwood Mansion, 580 Bellevue Ave., times and days vary in the month of Dec. Step back to Christmas 1891 with music and holiday fun. $20 adults, $8 youth, $50 for family of 2 adults and 4 youth. 846-3772. www.astorsbeechwood.com

Viking Bus Tours, Ocean Drive, Bellevue Ave, historic buildings and points of interest. 847-6921.

The Colony House on Washington Square is decorated on the exterior by the Newport Garden Club.