Go On A Christmas Lights Stroll Then Visit A Winter Wonderland For A Holly Jolly Rhode Island Adventure

Time seems to pass by in a blur when the holiday season rolls around. After all, we have so much to do that there’s little time just to stop and enjoy. The good news is there are a lot of beloved Christmas events in Rhode Island that don’t take up too much time, so you can still fit everything in you want to all season long. This adventure to the most enchanting winter events in Rhode Island, for example, promises an evening jam-packed with magical moments you won't soon forget. Bundle up for your adventure that will take you to two magical Christmas light displays, beginning at Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence for its annual Holiday Lights Spectacular and ending at the drive-thru Holiday Light Show at Confreda Farms in Hope.

Holiday Lights Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo

Open from late November through the first of the year annually, the Holiday Lights Spectacular may just become a new holiday tradition (if it isn’t one already). This year's dates are November 28, 2025, through January 4, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with the last admission at 9 p.m.

Wear a pair of comfy shoes for your stroll along this twinkling trail boasting more than 3.5 million lights. The zoo’s displays feature jolly snowmen, prancing deer, and a shimmering light tunnel. You might even spot a Santa made entirely of lights. Speaking of Santa, the man of the season will be on hand on each Thursday evening in December from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Santa's Workshop in the Zoo Gift Shop. The kiddos can whisper their wishes to Santa and get their photos taken. You’ll need your own camera for this free event. Santa visits are first-come, first-served, so plan accordingly.

A few new events for the 2025 Holiday Light Spectacular include Monday and Wednesday meet and greets with your favorite "Frozen" characters, as well as the Grinch, and a Nightly Storytime with Roger the Red Panda at 6, 7, and 8 p.m. Grab a seasonal treat, too, or dinner during your Christmas adventure, and be prepared to spend at least 90 minutes viewing the lights. Timed tickets must be purchased in advance. Learn more and purchase tickets on the Roger Williams Park Zoo website.

Holiday Light Show at Confreda Farms

By now, you’re probably fully in the Christmas spirit, so why not have some more fun? Pile in the car for the 20-minute drive through Confreda Farms in Hope. Oh, but it gets even better. Tune your radio to the posted FM station to watch the lights that are synchronized to popular Christmas songs, allowing you to sing along. Displays at the Holiday Light Show change from year to year, so even if you’ve visited in the past, you’ll be treated to a whole new experience. This year's event will feature a light tunnel and larger-than-life displays that will spark your imagination!

Tickets must be purchased online if you plan on visiting on Friday or Saturday evenings. However, if you visit another day, you can buy your tickets at the ticket booth. The Holiday Light Show runs from November 14 through December 31, 2025. Purchase tickets or learn more on the Holiday Light Show website.

What’s your favorite Rhode Island adventure at Christmastime? Please submit your recommendations through our nomination page. For more fun this holiday season, plan a visit to one or all of these enchanting Christmas towns in Rhode Island.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own Rhode Island holiday adventure using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.