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Hot Off the Holiday Press✨
Slide into festive fun with our latest issues, this week’s holiday highlights, a long‐loved PVD event revival, + more!
Holiday cheer? Check. Too many events packed into one weekend? Double check. Would we change a thing? Absolutely not. Before you commit to five tree lightings, a cookie swap, and a partridge in a pear tree, take a minute to cozy up with today’s newsletter. Inside, you’ll find this week’s can’t-miss happenings, a look inside our freshly unwrapped December issues, and feel-good Rhody stories that’ll warm you up quicker than a mug of mulled cider by the fire.
Let the Holiday Browsing Begin!
What do cozy storefronts, decked halls, and sleigh-loads of sparkle have in common? They’re all wrapped up in our December issues, now on stands statewide. Whether you’re hunting for holiday markets, craving a bakery run, or looking to make your errands feel like a festive field trip, we've got you. Pick up The Bay, Providence Monthly, Hey Rhody, and So Rhode Island for your jolly guide to shopping, shining, and showing up locally this season.
Relay For Life Returns to PVD in 2026
Greater Providence is getting its beloved Relay For Life back, bringing hope, community spirit, and a brand new Planet Fitness Black Card raffle to kickstart early sign ups. Register, raise fifty dollars, and you could enter the new year with both good vibes and a year of unlimited gym access. Read more online.
• By Jenna Kaplan, photo Relay For Life
Presented by Social Enterprise Greenhouse
Meet the Providence Coworking Space Built for Changemakers
Providence’s Jewelry District has no shortage of creative energy, and Social Enterprise Greenhouse (SEG) continues to be a key part of that landscape. Located in the Jewelry District near the Fox Point bridge, SEG operates the city’s only nonprofit incubator and accelerator focused on social impact businesses, and its coworking space has grown into a go-to hub for entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and small teams looking for an inclusive place to get meaningful work done. The organization’s long standing role in supporting mission driven ventures adds value for anyone hoping to connect with others who share a community oriented focus.
The workspace offers open seating, private offices and meeting rooms, along with a layout that supports both collaboration and focus. Members value the accessible and community driven environment, noting that the space is easy to navigate and provides resources they can rely on. Staff emphasize that SEG’s mission centers on catalyzing and connecting socially conscious professionals throughout Providence, and the coworking space functions as a natural extension of that work.
Inclusivity remains a core part of the organization’s approach. The coworking environment welcomes a wide range of users, from early stage founders to established businesses. Along with workspace amenities, members gain access to SEG’s broader network, which includes programs, guidance and opportunities to engage with other mission oriented professionals. Many users say that the combination of physical space and supportive programming helps them stay focused on long term goals.
Right now, SEG is inviting the community to try the space with a free three day coworking pass. Nonprofits can claim a special eighty five dollar monthly membership, and several below market rate private offices are available for teams ready to expand their footprint. For anyone looking to work in a place that encourages creativity, connection and meaningful impact, SEG offers a clear option. Explore memberships or sign up for a trial at segri.org.
Rhody Recs is your weekly roundup of what’s happening across the state, a built-in excuse to rally the crew early instead of scrambling for plans at the last minute. Because let’s be real, life’s too short to leave the fun for last minute.
Date | Event |
|---|---|
Wednesday 12/3 | Festive Fête Holiday Market at Gardiner House Sip, shop, and soak up the Newport holiday magic at the Festive Fête Holiday Market from 6-9pm at the elegant Gardiner House on Lees Wharf. Learn more online ⸻ Take the Risk Jazz Lounge at Ochre Court Experience an improv-driven night of jazz dance and live music at Salve Regina University’s “Take the Risk” Jazz Lounge at Ochre Court, with doors at 6:30pm and the first set at 7:30pm. Learn more online ⸻ Sea Glass Tree, Grinchy Tree, or Angel Workshop at George’s of Galilee Create a glowing sea glass tree, grinchy tree, or angel from 6:30-8:30pm at George’s of Galilee in Narragansett, where all materials are included and dinner-and-drinks make it the perfect night out. Learn more online |
Thursday 12/4 | Pneufest at Burnside Park Pneuhaus brings four magical nights to Burnside Park this winter, inviting families to explore glowing soft sculptures, dance to Stay Silent DJs, and enjoy festive holiday drinks. Learn more online ⸻ Sip and Shop at OceanCliff Hotel Kick off your holiday shopping with drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and local vendors at OceanCliff Hotel’s Sip and Shop on December 4 from 4-7pm in Newport. Learn more online ⸻ PVD Holiday Festival 2025 Downtown Providence comes alive December 4 -7 with the PVD Holiday Festival, bringing ice skating, holiday markets at Grant’s Block Park, live music, pop up performances, tree lightings, and family friendly fun all across the city. Learn more online ⸻ Bubbles and Belcourt Dinner at Sakonnet Vineyard Sip five exquisite wines, savor a three-course meal by Chef Andrew Bonamassa, and enjoy Gilded Age stories from Belcourt’s David Bettencourt at Sakonnet Vineyard in Little Compton from 5-7pm. Learn more online ⸻ Sip & Shop at Conanicut Gift Shop Swing by Conanicut Gift Shop in Jamestown from 5-7pm for a festive Sip and Shop with complimentary wine, holiday baskets, décor, and plenty of local gift finds. Learn more online ⸻ Tabletop Christmas Tree Workshop at Pivotal Brewing Create your own 12-inch boxwood Christmas tree from 6:30-8pm at Pivotal Brewing in Bristol, complete with festive decorations and a pint of beer or hard seltzer included. Learn more online |
Friday 12/5 | Annual Charlestown Holiday Ramble Celebrate local art and cozy holiday vibes at the Charlestown Holiday Ramble on December 5 and 6 at The Charlestown Gallery, featuring over 100 original works under 500 dollars, raffles, food trucks, hot drinks, and plenty of festive shopping. Learn more online ⸻ A Holiday Celebration WaterFire Experience holiday magic in downtown Providence at WaterFire’s festive basin lighting with food vendors, a seasonal ArtMart, choral performances, and holiday fun along the river from 3:30-9pm. Learn more online ⸻ RI Night Market Holiday Market at Track 15 Shop local, snack on bites from Track 15, and enjoy festive fun at the Track 15 Holiday Market on December 5 from 4 to 9 PM in the Basin Tunnel and Plaza during WaterFire. Learn more online ⸻ 40th Annual Wickford Festival of Lights Stroll through a glowing winter wonderland at the Wickford Festival of Lights from December 4-7, where shops stay open late, Santa arrives by boat, and the whole historic village shines with festive charm. Learn more online ⸻ Broadway Brunch Stroll Taste your way through three beloved West Side brunch spots on December 5 from 9:45 AM to 12:15 PM, starting at 318 Broadway in Providence for a cozy morning of bites, sips, and neighborhood charm. Learn more online ⸻ FirstWorks presents: Le Patin Libre “Glide” Catch FirstWorks’ free performance of Le Patin Libre’s high-energy ice dance show “Glide” from 7-9pm at the Kennedy Plaza Skating Rink, followed by a public ice-skating dance party with a local DJ. Learn more online ⸻ Bright Night 2025 at Tiverton Four Corners Enjoy festive lights, holiday shopping, live music, and a magical village stroll at Bright Night 2025 from 4-7pm at Tiverton Four Corners, complete with Santa visits and the opening of the annual re-Tree exhibition. Learn more online ⸻ Bosgraaf Stained Glass Studio’s 10th Annual Holiday Sale & Hot Chocolate Happenings Browse hundreds of handmade stained glass treasures at Bosgraaf’s 10th Annual Holiday Sale on December 6 and 7 in Peace Dale, where complimentary hot chocolate, raffles, and a Saturday wine tasting make gift shopping extra festive. Learn more online ⸻ Holiday Extravaganza at Newport Vineyards Join the festive fun at Newport Vineyards in Middletown from 5-8:30pm, where wine tastings, live music, Santa photos, kids' activities, and the biggest wine sale of the year make this a holiday celebration to remember. Learn more online ⸻ 12th Annual Re-Tree Exhibition Stroll through a festive outdoor gallery of handmade trees crafted from recycled materials during the 12th Annual Re-Tree Exhibition, on display from December 5-19 along Main Road in Tiverton Four Corners. Learn more online ⸻ Franklin Street Holiday Stroll Enjoy carolers, festive treats, in-store specials, and holiday cheer during the Franklin Street Holiday Stroll in Newport on December 5 from 4-7pm and December 6 from 12-6pm, with proceeds supporting Newport Sings. Learn more online |
Saturday 12/6 | Pawtucket's Winter Wonderland Festival Explore Rhode Island’s largest Christmas display at Pawtucket’s Winter Wonderland Festival, running December 6 to 14 from 4-8pm at Slater Memorial Park with Santa visits, train rides, a carousel, food, and festive fun for all ages. Learn more online ⸻ Strolling Rolling Apponaug Winter Festival Spend the day at Apponaug Village in Warwickfrom 9am-3pm for a free family-friendly winter festival filled with a parade, ice skating, food trucks, kids’ crafts, performances, Santa visits, hay rides, and community fun. Learn more online ⸻ Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration at Hearthside House Step back in time for a festive afternoon of holiday cheer, self-guided tours, music, Santa, and seasonal treats during the Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration at Hearthside House on December 6, 7, 13, and 14 from 12:30-4pm. Learn more online ⸻ Pictures With Santa Paws Head to The Black Dog General Store on Thames Street in Newpor from 12-4pm for photos with Santa Paws, hot cocoa, candy canes, and a sweet way to support America’s VetDogs. Learn more online ⸻ Hoppy Holidays at The Guild Sip, shop, and celebrate the season at The Guild’s Hoppy Holidays on December 6 and 7 from 12-6pm in Pawtucket, with 60 local artisans, tasty food trucks, and plenty of craft brews to keep spirits bright. Learn more online ⸻ 55th Annual Bowen's Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting Spend a festive afternoon by the water at the 55th Annual Bowen’s Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting, starting at 12:30pm, with live performances, sweet treats, and a magical tree lighting at 6pm. Learn more online ⸻ Bristol’s Grand Illumination Join the community fun at Bristol’s Grand Illumination6 starting at 5pm at 400 Hope Street, with live entertainment, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the magical lighting of the town Christmas tree. Learn more online ⸻ City of East Providence Annual Tree Lighting Festival Bundle up for an evening of cheer at East Providence’s annual celebration where local vendors, free hot cocoa, music, and Santa’s firetruck arrival light up City Hall Plaza from 4-7pm. Learn more online ⸻ Holiday Family Fun Day Bring the whole family to Maher Garden Center in Middletown for a day filled with holiday crafts, tree picking, hot cocoa, and feel-good giving from 9am-6pm. Learn more online ⸻ Jamestown Village Holiday Stroll Get your holiday fix in charming Jamestown where local shops and churches host a day of merry happenings, from treats and tunes to Santa arriving by boat at 1pm and a tree lighting at Ferry Wharf. Learn more online ⸻ 21st Annual Gingerbread House Decorating Contest Get creative with candy at the 21st Annual Gingerbread House Decorating Contest from 9am-5pm at Artists' Exchange in Cranston, where you’ll enjoy a festive day of decorating, treats, raffles, and crafts with reservations required. Learn more online ⸻ Narragansett Holiday Street Faire Turn your holiday errands into festive fun at the Narragansett Holiday Street Faire from 10am-4pm with an outdoor village, artisan market, live music, and plenty of holiday sparkle. Learn more online ⸻ Barrington Tree Lighting Join the Town of Barrington, starting at 2pm, for festive kids’ activities, crafts, school performances, a visit from Santa at 3:45pm, and the official tree lighting at 5pm at 283 County Road. Learn more online ⸻ Roger Williams Park Winter Wonderland Step into a holiday dream at Winter Wonderland from 12-4pm at Roger Williams Park, where festive lights, seasonal cheer, and community warmth come together for a magical afternoon for all ages. Learn more online |
Sunday 12/7 | Christmas at Whitehall Museum House Step into a simpler season at Christmas at Whitehall Museum House in Middletown from 1-3pm where colonial charm, holiday treats, wassail, and candlelit cheer welcome guests of all ages for a festive afternoon steeped in tradition. Learn more online ⸻ Riffraff Bookstore and Bar Winter Market Head to Riffraff Bookstore and Bar in PVD from 1-5pm for a cozy afternoon of shopping, sipping, and browsing handmade treasures like knitwear, jewelry, pottery, flash tattoos, and zines, all in the heart of the bookstore cafe. Learn more online ⸻ Shepherd’s Run Holiday Markets Wander through the festively decorated halls of Shepherd’s Run in South Kingstown from 11am-4pm, where cozy seasonal sips, sweet treats, and thoughtfully curated artisan goods make for a perfect holiday shopping escape. Learn more online ⸻ Pet Photos with Santa at Newport Harbor Island Resort Grab your pups and head to Newport Harbor Island Resort, where Santa and Mrs. Claus are striking a pose from 12-2pm with your furry friends to support The Greyson Foster Fund, complete with festive treats, drinks, and a photo booth to capture the cheer. Learn more online ⸻ Holiday Paws Downtown Block Pawty Celebrate the season with your four-legged bestie at the Holiday Paws Downtown Block Pawty in Providence from 12-4pm, featuring live music, local shopping, pup-friendly contests, Santa photos, and joyful fun that supports the Providence Animal Rescue League. Learn more online ⸻ Swell Folk Festival Fundraiser at Myrtle Gather your friends and soak in the sounds of soulful folk and Americana at Myrtle in East Providence from 2-5pm, where live music, community spirit, and good vibes come together to support the Swell Folk Festival. Learn more online ⸻ Make & Mingle: Ornament Workshop at Roots Heaven Farms Add a little sparkle to your season at Roots Heaven Farm in Smithfield from 1-3pm, where you’ll craft custom ornaments at the Make and Take Bar, try your hand at diamond painting, and soak in the cozy holiday vibes of the farm. Learn more online ⸻ PVD Flea Holiday Market Shop small, gift big, and soak up the festive feels at The Flea’s Holiday Market series from 11am to 3pm on December 7, 14, and 21, where vintage charm and local love fill every corner of Farm Fresh Market Hall. Learn more online ⸻ Breakfast with Santa at Hometown Tavern Treat the family to a festive Christmas morning at Hometown Tavern as you enjoy a holiday breakfast buffet, cheerful caroling, kids’ crafts, and a cozy Elves Room shopping experience with a visit from Santa. Learn more online |
Our Rhody Rec list is refreshed with every newsletter, so be sure to check back for the latest events!
How Comic Con Sparked 10 New Celebrity-Inspired Recipes by a Providence Chef
Providence chef and influencer David Rivoli turned last year’s and this year’s Rhode Island Comic Con celebrity encounters into ten creative new recipes inspired by the actors he met. From nostalgic gelato to bold curries and comfort-food mashups, his dishes prove that pop culture and local flavor make a delicious mix. Read more online.
• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of David Rivoli
⭐ Ready for new reasons to bundle up and stroll the zoo after sunset? Roger Williams Park Zoo’s Holiday Lights Spectacular, opening on 11/28, is debuting fresh weekly highlights, like $5-off Discount Tuesdays, special Frozen meet-and-greets on Mondays and Wednesdays, and Thursday nights with Santa. Round it out with nightly storytime featuring Roger the Red Panda, and you’ve got a whole new way to experience the magic.
⭐ Looking for locally made art that sparks joy? The Pawtucket Arts Collaborative Winter Members Show is on view Saturdays and Sundays through December 21 at the Mill Gallery in Lorraine Mills. With over 150 pieces by talented members on display, it's the perfect place to find something beautiful, unexpected, and created right here in the community.
⭐Looking for an easy way to spread a little holiday goodwill? From November 28 to December 21, Wright’s Dairy Farm and Bakery is inviting customers to Round Up for Rhode Island, with every extra cent supporting the Rhode Island Food Bank. Even better, Wright’s will match all donations, making your small gesture go twice as far in the fight against hunger.
Brown University’s Nutcracker Returns with Bigger Sound and Fresh Student Energy
Brown Ballet Company is bringing The Nutcracker back to campus with an all-student creative force that’s bigger, bolder, and buzzing with collaboration. From a 51-member pit orchestra to cross-campus dance partners, this year’s production blends tradition with fresh talent for a holiday performance full of heart. Read more online.
• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Brown University
Save 30% for Black Friday at Medik8!
Did you hear Medik8 is having a Black Friday Sale? Grab your skin saviors at 30% off, plus some free gifts to pamper yourself!*
*Terms & Conditions Apply
#HeyRhodyPhotos
Catch us spending the season exactly like this tree: full of charm, slightly windswept, and embracing the coastal chaos.
Photo by @marcushanscom
Use #HeyRhodyPhotos to share your Rhody views, and it might be featured here!