December drapes Newport in a kind of magic that feels straight out of a snow globe. The cobblestone streets glow under wreath-lined lampposts, the harbor twinkles with boat lights, and every shop window is filled with that unmistakable holiday sparkle. If there’s ever a time to fall in love with Newport, or just fall in love – it’s right now and December is packed with reasons to visit, explore, and celebrate.

Holiday Feels & Cozy Vibes

Step into December in Newport and you’re greeted with the scent of cocoa, fresh pine, and sea air mixing into the perfect winter blend. Locals and visitors bundle up in cozy sweaters and stroll from events, eateries and shops, each offering its own festive twist on the season.

Newport Vineyards rolls out holiday wine tastings, mulled wine, limited-release bottles, and pairing boards perfect for a fireside evening. Clarke Cooke House glows with holiday charm, offering cozy corners, seasonal menus, and that classic Newport cheer that keeps guests returning year after year. Brenton Hotel, 41° North, Hammetts Hotel and the Newport Harbor Island Resort offer luxurious holiday lounge experiences, festive cocktails, and warm gathering spaces overlooking the sparkling harbor for an afternoon, evening or weekend.

Holiday Shopping & Gifting Ideas

Newport is a gift-giving treasure hunt in December. Newport Classical offers giftable experiences like concert passes for music lovers, while the Discover Newport holiday marketplace highlights local makers, artisans, and small businesses.

For the person who “has everything,” Newport’s experiences make unforgettable gifts:

• Newport Jaguar Tours offers private luxury tours through Newport’s most festive corners.
• Sea Newport gift cards make a great gift for warmer days on the water. 
• Island Adventure provides thrilling experiences and gift vouchers for the adventurer on your list.
• Rockstar Limo, make luxurious travel and holiday outings giftable, polished, and effortless.
• Veuve Clicquot Gifting: High end gifting with ideas and plenty of style.  

 Holiday Food & Beverage Specials

Newport eats and drinks exceptionally well during the holidays.

The Cocktail Guru hosts festive mixology events and tastings throughout the month, teaching guests to shake up holiday spirits like pros. Across town, restaurants and lounges offer limited-time menus, winter comfort food at Clarke Cookhouse , and themed cocktails perfect for December celebrations. You’ll also find the finest holiday menus and seasonal pairings at hotspots like 41° North, Hammetts Hotel, and the Newport Harbor Island Resort. Veuve Clicquot Champagne, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Penelope Bourbon, Highclere Castle Gin, and Stella Artois bring seasonal spirits and sips to celebrations all month long.

Holiday Events & Big December Moments

This is when Newport shines brightest, literally. The Newport Mansions transform into breathtaking holiday wonderlands filled with sparkling trees, elaborate décor, and music echoing through grand halls. The International Tennis Hall of Fame welcomes guests with beautifully decorated grounds. Concerts and performances, waterfront events, harbor parades, and carolers fill Thames Street with pure December cheer. Visit Discover Newport for a complete guide. Foxwoods Resort Casino has Martha Stewart decking its halls for holiday pageantry from Thanksgiving to Christmas and beyond. And for international holiday flavor, Turkish Airlines is running Black Friday Special. 

Holiday Cheer, Gifts & Indulgences

December brings a sleigh full of special offers across Newport. From winter bundles, holiday gift cards at local shops, to experience packages, this is the best time to enjoy Newport’s unique yuletide season with seasonal perks, holiday extras, and exclusive December-only promotions that make visiting even sweeter.

This December, let Newport wrap you in holiday cheer. Come for the lights, the flavors, the gifting, and the cozy magic. Stay for the memories, the moments, and everything that makes the season shine brightest by the sea.

Photo by Discover Newport