At Christmastime, Newport, Rhode Island Has the Most Enchanting Main Street in the Country

There's never a bad time to be a Rhode Islander, but the holiday season is an especially magical time to live here, especially if you happen to live near the charming little city of Newport. Christmas in Newport, Rhode Island, lasts throughout the entire month of December, with events and displays taking place all over town. But all you have to do to get into the holiday spirit is take a stroll down Thames Street, otherwise known as Newport's Main Street, and take in the seasonal sights. Are you ready for a Newport, Rhode Island Christmas? It's the most magical time of year to be here!

Thames Street is one of the oldest continuously used streets in Rhode Island. It's also Newport's main street, filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions like the historic Bowen's Wharf and Bannister's Wharf. It runs parallel to the waterfront and is full of inviting shops, galleries, and restaurants. Thames Street in Newport, Rhode Island, is especially enchanting this time of year, so it's the perfect place to enjoy a holiday stroll, do some holiday shopping, and check out Christmas window displays.

The Annual Christmas in Newport event marks the start of the holiday season. This year marks its 55th year, kicking off the Annual Doorway Decorating Contest on November 17, 2025. This traditional event also features shopping discounts, restaurant specials, a tree lighting ceremony, a holiday market, and so much more. During this event, it's clear that Newport is the top Rhode Island Christmas town. As a matter of fact, if you live in Newport, you're lucky — the city celebrates Christmas for the entire month of December!

Additional celebrations during November and December include concerts, caroling, and craft fairs, as well as visits with Santa and Nutcracker performances. Annual guided holiday lantern tours will be available every Friday and Saturday, starting in late November and running through late December.

Newport truly is the best Christmas town in Rhode Island. And there's nothing quite like shopping on Thames Street during the holiday season — every storefront is decked out in decor. A few of the most popular shops are Thames Glass Glassblowing Studio and Gallery, Rochelles Of Newport, and Sequin of Thames St. Check out the decor at each place and pick out unique holiday gifts for your loved ones

One local tradition you definitely won't want to skip is Christmas at the Newport Mansions. The Marble House, The Elms, The Breakers, and Chateau-sur-Mer are all beautifully decorated for the holidays, with a theme of Gilded Age glamour. I find that touring the mansions during the holidays in Newport is a magical experience. In fact, Christmas at the Newport Mansions is one of the best Christmas events in Rhode Island

When spending the holidays in Newport, RI, you'll find that this city is full of coastal charm. It's easy to see why it's one of the top Christmas towns in New England, and certainly one of the most magical Rhode Island Christmas towns. Spend as much of your December as you can here, and you'll agree that this is truly the most wonderful time of the year.

If it's been a while since you've spent time in Newport, December is the perfect time to go. Have you spent Christmas in Newport, Rhode Island? While Newport is as charming as can be during the holidays, check out a few other charming Rhode Island Christmas towns. You can also plan your own trip Rhode Island holiday adventures with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.

Are you looking for gifts this holiday season? Check out the Only In Your State Holiday Gift Guide for ideas.