Founded in 1971, Christmas in Newport began as a two-week festival that celebrated the noncommercial traditions of the holiday season. Now in its 39th 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 the web site at http://www.christmasinnewport.org/ (courtesy of Pirata Media) A 30-minute video highlighting many of our December activities is available for a fee from Video Image Productions at (401) 847-3229. 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.
