✨ Holiday Events in Newport, RI 2026: Your Guide from Pelham Court Hotel
When winter arrives, Newport becomes a seaside wonderland of twinkling lights, decorated mansions and cozy nights by the harbor. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family trip or a quiet escape before the new year, Pelham Court Hotel is the perfect home base. Our spacious suites have full kitchens, fireplaces and free on-site parking, and we're just steps from Thames Street.
Here's what's happening in Newport this holiday season.
🏛️ Holidays at the Newport Mansions
📅 November 21, 2026 – January 3, 2027
Nearly 30 Christmas trees fill The Breakers, Marble House and Chateau-sur-Mer, each decorated to match the room it's in. Don't miss the 15-foot poinsettia tree in The Breakers' Great Hall, built from 150 plants. The Breakers and Marble House are open daily. Chateau-sur-Mer is open Saturdays and Sundays.
📍 About 5 minutes from Pelham Court Hotel
🎄 Sparkling Lights at The Breakers
📅 November 21 – December 27, 2026 (select evenings, 4–8 PM)
Stroll a half-mile path glittering with hundreds of thousands of lights and music, then tour The Breakers dressed for the holidays. Tickets are timed and non-refundable, so book early, especially for weekends. Want to dress up? The black-tie Holiday Dinner Dance at The Breakers is Saturday, December 19.
⛵ Newport Illuminated Boat Parade
📅 Friday, November 27, 2026, 6:00 PM
The day after Thanksgiving, decorated boats light up Newport Harbor. Watch from the downtown waterfront, then walk back to your suite.
📍 Steps from Pelham Court Hotel
🎅 Bowen's Wharf Tree Lighting
📅 Saturday, December 5, 2026
The 55th annual celebration starts around 12:30 PM with Santa, followed by an afternoon of local musicians and choirs. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by boat (weather permitting), and the big tree is lit at 6:00 PM. Free admission.
📍 Two blocks from Pelham Court Hotel
🛍️ Christmas in Newport & Holiday Shopping
All through December, Newport celebrates with concerts, candlelight events and tree lightings around town. Downtown's boutiques, galleries and cafés along Thames Street and Bellevue Avenue are perfect for unique gifts. Skip the mall and shop local.
🐾 Bring the Dog
Pelham Court's dog-friendly suites mean the whole family can come. Enjoy winter walks along the Cliff Walk and harbor, then warm up by the fireplace.
🏡 Stay in the Heart of Downtown Newport
Skip the commute and stay where the celebration happens. Every Pelham Court suite includes:
A full kitchen and spacious living area
Complimentary on-site parking
Dog-friendly accommodations
A walkable downtown location
Stay 3+ nights and save 15% on select dates. Book direct at pelhamcourthotel.com for the best rate.