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. Click here to view last year (2010) events.

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.

2011 Christmas in Newport

Calendar of Events
  Denotes Children's and family events

December 1st - Thursday
	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
	Island Moving Company Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff, 548 Belleview Ave. Times vary. Be a part of the story as you follow the dazzling performers through the spectacular setting of Newport’s most romantic mansion. Admission is $30-$75. 847-4470. http://www.islandmovingco.org
	The Newport Historical Society’s Holiday Open House, Newport Colony House, Washington Square, 5-6 p.m. Tour the Colony House before the Official Opening Ceremony of Christmas in Newport. Donations welcome. 846-0813 or 841-8770.
	Winter Cheer for Adults, 2 options: 9:30 – 12:30 p.m. or 6-9 p.m., Newport Art Museum Coleman Center for Creative Studies, 26 Liberty St. Create one-of-a-kind holiday gifts with clay. Must register for 2 sessions (Dec 1 & 8). Museum members $60, non-members $70, $10 studio fee. 848-8200 or www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	Winter Cheer for Kids, 4-5:30 p.m., children ages 6-10 yrs can create one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and ornaments. Newport Art Museum Coleman Center for Creative Studies, 26 Liberty St. Must register for the two sessions (Dec. 1 & 8). Museum members $40, non-members $50. 848-8200 or www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	Reading and Performance of “A Christmas Carol” , by actor Robb Dimmick at the Newport Public Library, 300 Spring St., 7 p.m. in the Program Room. Free. 847-8720 X103 or plarose@newportlibraryri.org
	Free Screening of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, 5:30 p.m. - Free reindeer noses for first 60 movie-goers. For further detail, you can visit www.janepickens.com
December 2nd - Friday
	Island Moving Company Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff, 548 Belleview Ave. Times vary. Be a part of the story as you follow the dazzling performers through the spectacular setting of Newport’s most romantic mansion. Admission is $30-$75. 847-4470. http://www.islandmovingco.org
	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 $32.95, Children $22.95. 841-8700. www.newportdinnertrain.com
	Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport, departing from the Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St., 4:30 p.m. Discover the authentic history of Newport holiday traditions on a lantern-lit stroll through the exquisitely preserved streets of downtown Newport. Hear how the colonists in Newport did or did not celebrate the holidays. $12 adults, $10 NHS members & children. Reservations recommended. Weather Permitting. 841-8770.
	Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair, 5-8 p.m., Newport Art Museum Coleman Center for Creative Studies, 26 Liberty St. Featuring creative offerings by Newport Art Museum Coleman Center faculty. Free. 848-8200 or visit www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	Holiday Critter Glitter Jewelry Sale at Potter League for Animals – Girls Night Out – Preview Party, 6-8 p.m., 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. Wine and chocolate tasting, door prizes, sale of jewelry benefits the Potter League. Free admission. 846-8276.
	Rogers H.S. Theatre production of "Annie", in the Rogers H.S. auditorium at 7:00 PM on Friday and Saturday evening with a matinee on Saturday at 2:00 PM. For more info contact Peter Corr at rocketfish@hotmail.com
	Wreath Sale to benefit Cluny School, 3-5pm, outside Segway store, 438 Thames Street. Fresh & fragrant 24-inch, double-faced Canadian balsam wreaths, lovingly hand-decorated by Cluny School parents. Proceeds to benefit Cluny School, Newport’s only Catholic elementary school. Click here for styles and prices. 835-8775
December 3rd - Saturday
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 2 for details.
	41st 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. Live Music. Free. 849-2120 www.bowenswharf.com
	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. 846-4152. liz@newportrestoration.org
	UnDecked Halls: Behind the Scenes at Doris Duke’s Mansion in Winter, 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. Tours offered every ½ hour. $10 adults, $8 children under 12 yrs. Tickets sold at the door. 847-8344. liz@newportrestoration.org
	Boxing Day at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House: 1760, 11:30 a.m., tour departs from the Museum at the Brick Market, 127 Thames St. Hear the unique history of this house and learn how 18th century residents made their way through the winter. Admission $15 per person, $10 for NHS members. Reservations required. 841-8770.
	Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport, departing from the Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St., 4:30 p.m. See Dec. 2 for details.
	35th Annual Governor’s Ball, 9 p.m., Salve Regina Univ., 100 Ochre Point Ave. $150 per person, with corporate sponsorship available. Black tie gala with proceeds benefiting Salve Regina’s scholarship fund. 1-877-778-4438. Advancement@salve.edu
	11th Annual Lucy’s Hearth Designer Wreath Sale, 9-12 p.m., Rotunda at Easton’s Beach. Christmas wreaths and table top decorations created by designers, artists, gardeners and florists from the community. Gourmet sweets bake sale also. All proceeds go to Lucy’s Hearth. 848-7515.
	Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair, 10-4 p.m., Newport Art Museum Coleman Center for Creative Studies, 26 Liberty St. Featuring creative offerings by Newport Art Museum Coleman Center faculty. Free. 848-8200 or visit www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	Trinity Christmas Silver Tea and Boutique, Honyman Hall, Trinity Church, Queen Anne Sq., 1-4p.m. Tea, crafts and seasonal greens. The 1726 church will be open for visitors. $8. 846-0660.
	Family Holiday Workshop, 1-4 p.m., Newport Art Museum Coleman Center for Creative Studies, 26 Liberty St. Make stamped accordion books with your family. No registration required. Craft takes 1 hr. Museum members $12, non-members $15. 848-8200. www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	Victorian Christmas Feast, 7-10 p.m., Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave. Enjoy a festive St. Nicholas Day celebration with dinner, dancing, choral concert and traditional holiday cheer with the Marley Bridges Theatre Company. Museum members $100, non-members $125. Reservations required. 848-8200. www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	Swanhurst Chorus presents “Of December Five-and-Twenty”,The Church of St. John the Evangelist on ‘The Point,’ Washington and Willow Sts., 7:30 p.m. Concert featuring favorites by David Willcocks, John Rutter and others. $20 per person in advance, $22.50 at the door, $10 for full-time students. 682-1630. www.Swanhurst.org
	Holiday Open House Weekend at the Potter League, noon – 4 p.m., 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. Fun activities for you and your dog at the Training Center. Demonstrations, tips and tricks, refreshments and more. Free. Leashed, well-behaved dogs welcome. 846-8276.
	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. $5 per child includes a goody bag and 1 ride on the carousel, 1 ride on the mini-train and visit with Santa. Tickets are purchased at the door, no advanced sales. 845-5800.
	Rogers H.S. Theatre production of "Annie", in the Rogers H.S. auditorium at 7:00 PM on Friday and Saturday evening with a matinee on Saturday at 2:00 PM. For more info contact Peter Corr at rocketfish@hotmail.com
	Kids Cookie Decorating Party, Hyatt Regency Newport - December 3, 10 & 17, 2011, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Children are invited to decorate cookies, participate in a “snowball” relay race and pin clothes to a giant gingerbread man blindfolded! Hot cocoa will be served. Please bring an unwrapped toy to benefit the Girls and Boys Club of Newport County or make a monetary donation to Give Kids the World. Hyatt Regency 1 Goat Island, 401-851-1234
	Wreath Sale to benefit Cluny School, 10-2pm, outside Segway store, 438 Thames Street. Fresh & fragrant 24-inch, double-faced Canadian balsam wreaths, lovingly hand-decorated by Cluny School parents. Proceeds to benefit Cluny School, Newport’s only Catholic elementary school. Click here for styles and prices. 835-8775
December 4th - Sunday
	Christmas at Whitehall,"A 1730 Christmas", 2-4 p.m., Whitehall Museum House, 311 Berkeley Ave., Middletown. A 1730’s Christmas celebrated in a 1729 colonial home. Singing of carols, 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. Free, donations accepted. 849-3672 or 846-3116 day of event. www.whitehallmuseumhouse.org or nancpb@yahoo.com
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 2 for details.
	"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
	Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. See Dec. 3 for details.
	Family Holiday Concert, 2 p.m., Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave. Navy Band Northeast: Top Brass Quintet performs for “Music in the Galleries.” Free. 848-8200 or visit www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	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.
	Holiday Open House Weekend at the Potter League, 3-5 p.m., 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. Tree lighting, Blessing of the Animals, behind the scenes shelter tours, refreshments and more. Free admission. Leashed, well-behaved dogs welcome. 846-8276.
	Wreath Sale to benefit Cluny School, 10-2pm, outside Segway store, 438 Thames Street. Fresh & fragrant 24-inch, double-faced Canadian balsam wreaths, lovingly hand-decorated by Cluny School parents. Proceeds to benefit Cluny School, Newport’s only Catholic elementary school. Click here for styles and prices. 835-8775
December 5th - Monday
	Giant 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.
	Bead for Life Jewelry Fundraiser, 7-9 p.m. at People’s café, 282 Thames St. Support impoverish Ugandan women who are lifting their families out of poverty with their handmade, high-quality beaded jewelry. For more info www.beadforlife.org. 662-7839.
December 6th - Tuesday
	Giant Holiday Gingerbread House, 8 a.m.-9 p.m., open daily at The Newport Marriott Hotel, 25 America’s Cup Ave. Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves will greet children and take photos today. Free with canned good donation for charity. 849-1000.
	Trim-A-Tree at the Elms, Exhibition of Holiday Trees created by 4th grade students from public and private schools in Newport. 5-7 PM. Admission is free.
December 7th - Wednesday
	Sketch a Winter Scene with Newport Artist Joseph Matose, 1-3 p.m., 164 Broadway. Learn how to draw winter scenes, limited to 10 participants, advance registration required. $5. 849-5421. www.newportartist.com
	4th Annual Christmas Acoustic Concert, 7-9:30p.m., Channing Memorial Church, 135 Pelham St. Many of the area’s finest musicians will perform acoustic music for the benefit of Lucy’s Hearth and the McKinney Shelter. $15 adults, children with adult free. More info @849-4250 or MGorman20@cox.net.
	The Nativity of Christ Puppet Show, 7p.m., The United Congregational Church of Newport, 524 Valley Rd., Middletown. The ChiRho Puppets, a larger than life puppet show with angels, dancing sheep, and singing animals. Free will offering. www.uccmiddletown.org.
	Festival of Lessons & Carols for Advent, 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, Cambridge. Free-will offering. 848-2561 or www.saintjohns-newport.org
	The Schola Cantorum of St. John's will offer its Annual Festival of Advent Lessons & Carols, at 6 PM at The Church of St. John the Evangelist, located on "The Point" at the corner of Washington and Willow Streets, Newport. The service is patterned after that presented at King's College, Oxford and made popular in the United States during the early part of the 20th century. Repertoire will include ancient chant, traditional Advent carols and hymns, as well as wonderful new settings of older texts, and will make full use of St. John’s beautifully restored Hook & Hastings organ. For further information, please call the Parish Office at 848-2561 or Organist/Choirmaster Jonathan F. Babbitt at 401-682-1630. A free will offering will be taken.
December 8th - Thursday
	The Nativity of Christ Puppet Show, 7p.m., The United Congregational Church of Newport, 524 Valley Rd., Middletown. The ChiRho Puppets, a larger than life puppet show with angels, dancing sheep, and singing animals. Free will offering. www.uccmiddletown.org.
	Giant 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.
	Winter Cheer for Adults, see Dec 1 for details.
	Winter Cheer for Kids, see Dec 1 for details.
	Newport Gallery Night, Newport Art Museum is open 5-8 p.m., Free. 848-8200 or visit www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	Student’s Impressions of Christmas in Newport of 2011, 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.
	Holiday Critter Glitter Jewelry Sale at Potter League for Animals – Guys Night Out, 6-8 p.m., 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. Beer tasting & tasty appetizers, door prizes, gift wrapping, personal shopping assistance. Sale of jewelry benefits the Potter League. Free admission. 846-8276.
	Holiday Tales by Pat Perry, (Sneak Peek Productions) Thursday, December 8th, 1:15pm, $3 for members, $5 for non-members Event to take place at the Edward King House Senior Center 35 King Street, Newport. For additional information or reservations call 846.7426. Transportation available for members.
December 9th - Friday
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 2 for details.
	The Nativity of Christ Puppet Show, 7p.m., The United Congregational Church of Newport, 524 Valley Rd., Middletown. The ChiRho Puppets, a larger than li fe puppet show with angels, dancing sheep, and singing animals. Free will offering. www.uccmiddletown.org.
	Christmas in Song by the Newport Navy Choristers, 7:30 p.m., St. Lucy’s Church, 909 W. Main Rd., Middletown. Concert to benefit Christmas in Newport. Admission $10 adults, $5 children under 12 & seniors, $20 family. www.newportnavychoristers.org
	Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport, departing from the Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St., 4:30 p.m. See Dec. 2 for details.
	Salve Regina University Christmas Choral Concert, 8 p.m., 100 Ochre Point Ave. SRU Chorus, Madrigals, Men’s and Women’s Ensembles perform a variety of choral masterworks to holiday favorites. $8 general admission, $5 seniors and students. 401-341-2945.
	St. George’s School Service of Lessons & 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
	31st Annual Newport Yachting Center Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Newport Skating Center, 5:30 p.m., America’s Cup Ave. Music, carols, refreshments, Santa and Mrs. Claus and other surprises. Free. Public ice skating is available after the festivities for $7 adult and $5 per child (11 and under). 846-1600. www.skatenewport.com for more details.
December 10th - Saturday
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 2 for details.
	Fort Adams Festival of Lights, 8a.m.-8p.m., Fort Adams. Tree lighting and decorating contest. Stroll the grounds and admire the trees, local high school band performances. Hot soups, hot drinks and sweets available to purchase. $2 entrance fee. 401-619-5801 or 846-0340. www.fortadams.org and www.mahercenter.org To decorate and sponsor a tree contact above phone numbers.
	Holiday Open House, Reading of The Night Before Christmas and a visit from Santa Claus, International Tennis Hall of Fame & Museum, 194 Bellevue Ave., Open house 9:30-5p.m. with 2:30 reading of The Night Before Christmas and 3p.m. visit from Santa. Admission is free with donation of non-perishable food item for charity. 849-3990. www.tennisfame.com
	Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. See Dec. 3 for details.
	UnDecked Halls: Behind the Scenes at Doris Duke’s Mansion in Winter, 680 Bellevue Ave., 10-3 p.m. (last tour at 2:30). See Dec. 3 for details.
	Boxing Day at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House: 1760, 11:30 a.m., see December 3 for details.
	Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport, departing from the Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St., 4:30 p.m. See Dec. 2 for details.
	Salve Regina University Christmas Choral Concert, 8 p.m., 100 Ochre Point Ave. See Dec. 9 for details.
	Museum Explorers, 10-11:30 a.m., Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave. Explore the Museum with your family. All-ages tour at 10 a.m. followed by a fun-for-everyone craft activity. $3. 848-8200 or www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	Holiday Craft Fair at Potter League for Animals, 10-4 p.m., 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. Free admission. 846-8276.
	Holly Days at the Norman Bird Sanctuary, 11a.m.-3p.m., 582 Third Beach Rd., Middletown. Holiday celebration in nature with animal presentations, story time, nature crafts, and Mabel’s Polar Express. $5 adults, $3 children 3-12 yrs, under 3 free. 846-2577X15. kbotelho@normanbirdsanctuary.org
	Newport County Inn’s and Bed and Breakfast Christmas Tours, 3 - 7 p.m., various Inns around Newport. 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. and list of houses will be posted after Nov. 20th.
	Victorian Christmas Feast, 7-10 p.m., Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave. See December 3 for details.
	“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.
	Kids Cookie Decorating Party, Hyatt Regency Newport - December 3, 10 & 17, 2011, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Children are invited to decorate cookies, participate in a “snowball” relay race and pin clothes to a giant gingerbread man blindfolded! Hot cocoa will be served. Please bring an unwrapped toy to benefit the Girls and Boys Club of Newport County or make a monetary donation to Give Kids the World. Hyatt Regency 1 Goat Island, 401-851-1234
	Australian Singer-songwriter Miriam Webster in person, 7:30pm - Sponsored by the First Presbyterian Church Tickets at www.janepickens.com
December 11th - Sunday
	Christmas Open House, 2-4 p.m., Glen Manor House, 3 Frank Coelho Dr., Portsmouth. Local entertainment. Free. 683-4177.
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 2 for details.
	Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. See Dec. 3 for details.
	Salve Regina University Holiday Band Concert, 3 p.m., Casino Theatre, 9 Freebody St. Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble performing holiday favorites. Admission $8, $5 for students and seniors. 401-341-2945.
	CANCELLED - Caroling at Emmanuel Church, 7p.m., 42 Dearborn St. Carols by the choir and refreshments to follow in the parish hall. Free. www.emmanuelnewport.org
	Emmanuel Church presents and evening of music with the St. Petersburg Men’s Ensemble (Russia), 7:20pm. Emmanuel Church, Spring and Dearborn St. Suggested Donation $20.00 Adult, $15.00 Seniors (60 & up), Children 12 and under free. www.EmmanuelNewport.org, 847-0675.
	Holiday Craft Fair at Potter League for Animals, 10-4 p.m., 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. Free admission. 846-8276.
	Newport County Inn’s and Bed and Breakfast Christmas Tours, 2-5 p.m., various Inns around Newport. 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. and list of houses will be posted after Nov. 20th.
	Holiday Craft Show, 10-4 p.m., Newport Elks Lodge, 141 Pelham St. Free admission. 835-7699.
	Artisan’s Expo, 10-5 p.m., at the International Tennis Hall of Fame, featuring 14 fine art & craft artists including Looking Upwards’ artisans. Free. 847-0960 X56. www.newportartsfestival.com
	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.
	Free Screening of Elf, 4:00pm - with donation of canned goods for the Martin Luther King Center. Sponsored by Memorial Funeral Home. For further detail, you can visit www.janepickens.com
	President, Naval War College & Commanding Officer, Naval Station Newport present a Holiday Concert featuring Navy Band Northeast, 3:00PM. Free Admission. Members of the general public who are interested in attending must call Naval Station Newport Public Affairs by 1 p.m. on Friday, December 09 to have their full names (and those of their guests) placed on an access list. Contact the office by calling (401) 841-3538 or e-mail: lisa.rama@navy.mil. Attendees must have a photo ID and provide the ages of children without IDs.
	St. Columba’s Christmas Tea and Holiday Bake Sale, 3- 5 pm. St. Columba’s Parish Hall, 55 Vaucluse Avenue, Middletown., Bring your friends and enjoy an oasis of calm in a busy season. Adults $10, Children $5. Proceeds to support church outreach programs. Tickets available at the door or call (401) 847-5571.
December 12th - Monday
	"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. Hot chocolate & sweets will be served before and after the presentation, which will last 25-30 minutes. Please dress warmly and bring a flashlight. Free. 401-569-0564, clunyschool.org Note: in the event of inclement weather, the event will be held at 6pm on Mon. Dec. 19.
December 13th - Tuesday
	Salve Regina University Holiday Orchestra Concert, sponsored by the Salve Regina Music Department of Performing Arts, 7:30p.m., 100 Ochre Point Ave. Students, faculty and community players join together in this presentation of popular orchestral masterworks and holiday favorites. Admission $8, $5 for students and seniors. 401-341-2945.
	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/winter music to benefit the Matthew Quinn Scholarship at Rogers High School. Admission $15. 683-6565. dicklupinomusic@gmail.com
	100th 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
	Celtic Christmas Extravaganza, 7:00 p.m. BOSTON STRING QUARTET AND PAN MORIGAN Tickets at www.janepickens.com
December 14th - Wednesday
	Make a Candle Centerpiece, 1-3p.m., Little Flower Florals, 164 Broadway. Participants will make a centerpiece with live greens to take home, limited to 6 participants, advance registration required. $20 for materials. 849-5421 www.littleflowerflorals.com
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is Thursday, December 15 to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 16th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
	Giant 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.
	Rogers High School Winter Concert, featuring RHS band, orchestra and chorus, with special guests the Navy Band Northeast. Bake sale during intermission. Donations are accepted at the door. Performance at 7:00 PM
	25th Annual WADK-AM/WJZS-FM Christmas Concert, 7 p.m., Newport Marriott Hotel Atrium, 25 America’s Cup Ave. with the Navy Band Northeast Brass Quintet... The Marley Bridges Theatre Company's Choral Ensemble .. and Larry Brown's Swinglane Orchestra. Admission is free. Non-perishable food donations are welcome for local charities. 846-1540.
December 15th - Thursday
	Children’s Christmas Story Hour, 4-5p.m., Good Shepherd Gift Shop, 164 Broadway, with storyteller Madeline P. Nugent. Limited to 25 children, advance registration required. Suitable for ages 4-10 and parents are welcome to stay. Admission is a donation to the Woman to Woman Support Network. 849-5421. www.goodshepherdgiftshop.com
	Judging of the Newport Doorway Contest, deadline is TODAY, to enter. Judging takes place on Friday the 16th. Register your home or business at 848-6707. Categories are: Residential, Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast and Commercial.
	Annual Silver Tea, Thursday, December 15th, 1-3pm Free, please bring a guest and experience the splendor of the Edward King House located at 35 King Street, Newport 401.846.7426 Transportation available for members.
December 16th - Friday
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 2 for details.
	Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport, departing from the Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St., 4:30 p.m. See Dec. 2 for details.
	Giant 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.
	Christmas at Mount Zion, 7 p.m., 31-33 Van Zandt Ave. Local community groups come together with the neighborhood to celebrate Christmas music, mime, poetry, singing. Free will offering.
December 17th - Saturday
	22nd Annual Christmas In "Sign", sponsored by the James L. Maher Center, 3-5 p.m., Stanford White Casino Theatre at the International Tennis Hall of Fame, 9 Freebody St. Christmas songs performed in black light and in sign language. Admission $6 adults, children $4. 846-0340. www.mahercenter.org
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 2 for details.
	Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. See Dec. 3 for details.
	UnDecked Halls: Behind the Scenes at Doris Duke’s Mansion in Winter, 680 Bellevue Ave., 10-3 p.m. (last tour at 2:30). See Dec. 3 for details.
	Boxing Day at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House: 1760, 11:30 a.m., see December 3 for details.
	Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport, departing from the Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St., 4:30 p.m. See Dec. 2 for details.
	19th 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.
	Redwood Library and Athenaeum Holiday Open House, 11-3 p.m., 50 Bellevue Ave. Festive holiday merriment, music, children’s readings and activities, and refreshment. Free and open to the public. 847-0292. www.redwoodlibrary.org/events.
	Murder at the Museum – “The Art of the Masquerade,” , 7-8:30 p.m., Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave. An evening of masquerade and murder set in 1916. Family-friendly, interactive murder mystery with th4e Marley Bridges Theatre Co. Costumes welcome, not required. Reservations required. Tickets $15 museum members, $20 non-member adults. $8 museum member youth, $13 non-member youth. 848-8200 or visit www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	19th Annual “Messiah and Carol Sing: The Christmas Story”, a beloved tradition of Christmas in Newport, on Saturday, December 17th at 7 PM. The “Sing” will take place at Emmanuel Church, corner of Spring and Dearborn Streets. This special evening will feature much of the Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah as well as beloved carols, plus selections by Swanhurst’s Chamber Singers and the telling of the Christmas Story. Bring your own score and sing along or just sit and be immersed in the glorious sounds of the season. Scores will be available for rent. A festive “Wassail Bowl” reception for all will follow. Admission is $10, $5 for children 12 and under, and $25 maximum per family. For more info, call 401-682-1630 or visit www.Swanhurst.org.
	Kids Cookie Decorating Party, Hyatt Regency Newport - December 3, 10 & 17, 2011, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Children are invited to decorate cookies, participate in a “snowball” relay race and pin clothes to a giant gingerbread man blindfolded! Hot cocoa will be served. Please bring an unwrapped toy to benefit the Girls and Boys Club of Newport County or make a monetary donation to Give Kids the World. Hyatt Regency 1 Goat Island, 401-851-1234
	Seamen's Church Institute Holiday Open House - Tour and Refreshments, 2-4 PM 18 Market Square, Newport, RI
December 18th - Sunday
	Holiday Dance Concert, 3p.m., Stanford White Casino Theatre at Tennis Hall of Fame, 9 Freebody St. Rhode Island’s ballet theatre performing dances from selections from Nutcracker, Babes in Toyland and other favorites. Suitable for ages 3 to 100. Admission $25. 847-5301.
	The Polar Express Train Ride, aboard the Newport Dinner Train, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., see Dec. 2 for details.
	Christmas with the Whitehornes, Samuel Whitehorne House, 10-3 p.m., 416 Thames St. See Dec. 3 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
	Celebrate the Christmas season with music at First Presbyterian Church of Newport, 7 p.m., Broadway and Everett St. Carols, anthems and special music. Instruments, handbells, sanctuary choir, soloists and small ensembles. Free. 847-1749.
	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.
	American Girl Christmas,2 p.m., Edward King Senior Center. Crafts, refreshments, doll fashion stroll and special gift. Admission limited due to space capacity. $10 per child. 845-5800. Sponsored by Newport Recreation Dept and Edward King Sr. Center. Advanced reservations required. 845-5800.
December 19th - Monday
	Giant 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 20th - Tuesday
	Giant 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.
	Thompson Middle School Advanced Band, Orchestra and Chorus Concert. Bake sale during intermission. Donations will be accepted at the door. Performance at 7:00 PM
	Holiday Musical Performance, By Susan McLeod, Made possible through a grant from RISCA Tuesday, December 20th, 1pm, $3 for members, $5 for non-members Event to take place at the Edward King House Senior Center 35 King Street, Newport. For additional information or reservations call 846.7426. Transportation available for members.
December 21st - Wednesday
	Giant 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.
	Thompson Middle School Advanced Band, Orchestra and Chorus Concert. Bake sale during intermission. Donations will be accepted at the door. Performance at 7:00 PM
December 22nd - Thursday
	Giant 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.
	The Working Waterfront Walking Tour, 11 a.m., departs from the NRF Museum Store, 415 Thames St. Walk in the footsteps of the women and men – sailors, merchants, immigrants – who once lived and worked in the Lower Thames neighborhood on a tour that engages the senses. $12 per person, reservations suggested. 846-0813.
	Holiday Magic Show, 3:30 p.m. at the Newport Public Library. Magician Todd Migliacci performing. For children 4 yrs. and older. Free. 847-8720 X204.
December 23rd - Friday
	Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport, departing from the Brick Market Museum & Shop, 127 Thames St., 4:30 p.m. See Dec. 2 for details.
	Discover Newport in Costume, 11 a.m., departs from Museum & Shop at Brick Market, 127 Thames Street. Follow a guide in 18th century costume on a walking tour of Newport’s colonial streets. Learn about the city’s remarkable history and its role during the American Revolution. $12 per person, $10 for NHS members. Reservations recommended for this hour-long tour. 841-8770.
December 24th - Saturday
	CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES ISLAND CHURCHES
	Christmas Eve service at Newport Congregational Church, Hope and Curiosity – New Life, 6 p.m. Family and children centered Christmas Eve service of Lessons and Carols, 73 Pelham St. at corner of Spring St. 849-2238. NCCUCC@Newportcongregationalchurch.org
	Festival of Lessons & Carols for Advent, The Church of St. John the Evangelist, Washington & Willow Sts. 4 p.m. The Schola Cantorum of St. John’s will offer Lessons & Carols for Christmas. The service is patterned after that presented at King’s College, Cambridge. Free-will offering. 848-2561 or www.saintjohns-newport.org
	Discover Colonial Newport Walking Tour, 11 a.m., departs from Museum & Shop at Brick Market, 127 Thames St. Hear stories of revolution, struggles for religious liberty and remarkable entrepreneurship among Newport’s diverse people. Reservations suggested. $12 per person, $10 NHS members. 841-8770.
	The Schola Cantorum of St. John's will offer a Festival of Christmas Lessons & Carols for families, at 4 PM at The Church of St. John the Evangelist, located on "The Point" at the corner of Washington & Willow Streets, Newport. The service is patterned after that presented at King's College, Oxford, opening with “Once in Royal David’s City”. Repertoire will include ancient chant, traditional carols and hymns, as well as wonderful new settings of older texts, and will make full use of St. John’s beautifully restored Hook & Hastings organ. For further information, please call the Parish Office at 848-2561 or Organist/Choirmaster Jonathan F. Babbitt at 401-682-1630. A free will offering will be taken.
December 25th - Sunday
	A JOYOUS CHRISTMAS TO ALL
December 26th - Monday
	41st 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. Click here for more information. OR Click here for a map.
	Holiday Train Rides, 4-7 p.m. 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 fare $11. 401-624-6951.
	Rogues & Scoundrels Walking Tour, 11 a.m., departs from Museum & Shop at Brick Market, 127 Thames St. See where scoundrels lived, where pirates profited and where criminals were put on trial and punished. Find out why this colony was known as “Rogue’s Island.” Reservations suggested. $12 per person, $10 NHS members. 841-8770.
December 27th - Tuesday
	41st 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. Click here for more information. OR Click here for a map.
	Turning Trash into Treasure Art Camp, 9:30 – 3:30 p.m., ages 6-10 yrs., Newport Art Museum Coleman Center for Creative Studies, 26 Liberty St. Must register for all three sessions. Museum member $170, non-members $205. 848-8200 or www.NewportArtMuseum.org
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave, see Dec. 26 for details.
	Touro Synagogue Community Hanukkah Candle Lighting, 7:30 p.m. at the Levi Gale House, 85 Touro Street. Please join us for candle lighting, latkes and dessert on the eighth night of Hanukkah. (401)847-4794 or tourosynagogue.org
December 28th - Wednesday
	41st 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. Click here for more information. OR Click here for a map.
	UnDecked Halls: Behind the Scenes at Doris Duke’s Mansion in Winter, 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. Tours offered every ½ hour. $10 adults, $8 children under 12 yrs. Tickets sold at the door. 847-8344. liz@newportrestoration.org
	Turning Trash into Treasure Art Camp, see Dec 27 for details.
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave, see Dec. 26 for details.
December 29th - Thursday
	Giant 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.
	Turning Trash into Treasure Art Camp, see Dec 27 for details.
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave, see Dec. 26 for details.
	The Working Waterfront Walking Tour, 11 a.m., see Dec 22 for details.
December 30th - Friday
	Giant 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.
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave, see Dec. 26 for details.
	The Working Waterfront Walking Tour, 11 a.m., see Dec 24 for details.
December 31st - Saturday
	Giant 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.
	Holiday Train Rides, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Old Colony Railway Depot, 19 America’s Cup Ave, see Dec. 26 for details.
	The Working Waterfront Walking Tour, 11 a.m., see Dec 24 for details.

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, December 3, 10 & 31. Live holiday music and refreshments. 6-8 p.m. Adults $28 in advance, $35 at the door, Children 6-17 yrs. $10. For information and to purchase tickets: www.newportmansions.org

Holiday Evening Duet at the Elms and Marble House, Dec 17. 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. For information and to purchase tickets: 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.

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

Touro Synagogue, 72 Touro Street. Winter tour hours: Sundays every half hour from 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Loeb Visitors Center open Sundays from 11:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. Closed Sunday 12/25, open Monday 12/26, open Sunday 1/1. Adults $12, seniors $10, students & military $8, children under 12 free. For more information: 401-847-4794 or tourosynagogue.org.

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