7 Christmas Towns In Rhode Island That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer

Magical moments fill the holiday season in Rhode Island. From leisurely strolls along snow-dusted Main Streets to Christmas shopping in quaint small-town shops, we have so much to do during the holidays that time simply melts away. As we feverishly work to prepare for the jolliest day of the year, sometimes we forget to stop and savor the wonder of the season. One of the best ways to do that is by spending a day - or even a weekend - exploring the best Christmas towns in Rhode Island.

1. Newport

Meander along the quaint roads of Newport, where you'll feel like you've stepped into a Norman Rockwell painting at Christmastime. Newport, which might just be the Christmas capital of Rhode Island, features a full menu of events, including Holidays at the Newport Mansions. The Marriott in Newport hosts the town's largest gingerbread house, and even just a stroll through Bowen's Wharf is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.

2. Warwick

One of the most charming places to go for Christmas in Rhode Island, the enchanting town of Warwick belongs on every Christmas bucket list. Embrace an old-fashioned Christmas in Rhode Island with a visit to the Annual Festival of Lights in Wickford Village, an idyllic launch to the Christmas season. Whether you're just starting your holiday shopping or adding the finishing touches, you'll uncover countless treasures in the village's quaint shops.

3. Bristol

Embark on an awe-inspiring Christmas adventure with a holiday visit to

Bristol. The enchanting town hosts one of the best Christmas festivals in Rhode Island. The annual two-day Christmas Festival is generally held at the beginning of December. Even if you can't make it for the festival, plan a Christmastime visit to do a bit of shopping, indulge in a meal at one of the decorated restaurants, or stroll through town to admire the twinkling lights and decorations.

4. Westerly

Carve out a day for a visit to the charming Christmas town of Westerly. If you're looking for one of the best things to do at Christmas in Rhode Island, mark your calendar for the Annual Downtown Holiday Stroll and Luminaria, set for Dec. 6, 2023. Awash in Christmas lights, the town's streets will be filled with holiday shoppers while the stores offer special deals. You can even grab a cookie and hot chocolate to help you stay warm as you mosey from shop to shop.

5. Providence

Jam-packed with Christmastime activities, Providence belongs on every Rhode Islander's holiday bucket list. Shimmering with Christmas lights, the bustling town boasts a jam-packed schedule with family-friendly activities, including holiday lights at Roger Williams Park Zoo, bumper cars on ice, and the Three Nights of Lights, an epic Christmas celebration. You can also catch The Nutcracker by Ballet Rhode Island.

6. Pawtucket

Pawtucket is the place to be for a hearty dose of holiday spirit. Slater Park transforms into a Winter Wonderland (yep, that's the name of the lights display) with its magical Christmas tree trail. Boasting more than 600 lit trees, Winter Wonderland offers a memorable experience for the whole family.

7. Warren

Celebrate the holiday season with a visit to one of the best Christmas festivals in Rhode Island. Warren hosts the Annual Warren Holiday Festival, held in late November each year. The two-day festival features a full menu of family-friendly fun, including carolers, fire spinners, and trolley tours. Santa will also make an appearance.

Isn't Rhode Island magical at Christmastime? Whether we're looking for the best Christmas festivals in Rhode Island or things to do at Christmas in Rhode Island, we have a full menu of choices....like visiting these Rhode Island Christmas towns. What are your favorite Christmas towns in Rhode Island? Is there one we've overlooked? Let us know in the comments! Christmastime in Rhode Island is all about tradition. How many of these Christmas traditions in Rhode Island do you follow?

Get in the Christmas spirit right at home, too, by adding to your collection of Christmas decor.