Two Ways to Light Up Thanksgiving Weekend
Thanksgiving weekend in New England has two moods: the quiet, sleepy post-turkey haze… and the “okay, let’s go see some lights” energy that kicks off the season.
If you’re ready for the second one, two of the region’s most charming winter events are happening the same weekend — and they couldn’t be more different in vibe. One is coastal magic. The other is urban sparkle.
Let’s get you out of the house.
🌊 Newport Illuminated Boat Parade — A Waterfront Glow-Up
📍 Newport Harbor
🗓 Friday, November 29, 2025 • 6 PM
🎟 Free
Newport’s annual boat parade is one of those events that feels like it came straight out of a New England children’s book.
Fishing boats, sailboats, and even commercial vessels glide across the harbor decked out in twinkling lights, wreaths, inflatable characters, and sometimes a rogue inflatable Minion (it happens every year).
The best viewing spots are naturally festive:
Bowen’s Wharf
Perrotti Park
The deck at The Landing
The marina walkway near the Mooring
The air smells like clam chowder and sea salt. Kids wave glow sticks. Boats honk as they pass judges’ stations. It’s pure coastal joy — simple, genuine, and easy to love.
Insider tip
Arrive early and grab a hot cider from one of the Wharf vendors. The reflections of the lights on the harbor make incredible photos — no filter needed.
✨ Providence Winter Lights Market — Art, Food, Music & Holiday Shopping
📍 Kennedy Plaza & Burnside Park, Providence
🗓 Nov 29 – Dec 1, 2025
🎟 Free admission; vendors vary
If Newport is whimsical and watery, the Winter Lights Market in Providence is vibrant and creative — a perfect kickoff for the holiday season.
The plaza transforms into a cozy winter village with:
60+ local artisans and makers
Food trucks serving everything from bao to brick-oven pizza
Live music and performances
Firepit lounges
Pop-up bars with mulled wine
Interactive light installations
Ice-skating around the rink
It feels like a holiday festival crossed with a European market — but with Providence personality. Think hand-carved ornaments, RISD student art, locally made soaps, quirky prints, knitted hats, and a lot of things that would make great gifts for hosts or in-laws.
Insider tip
Go at dusk. The market lights and downtown skyline together make for one of the most photogenic scenes in the city.
🎄 Which one should you choose?
Want magic on the water? → Newport
Want food + art + glow? → Providence
Want both? → Do Newport on Friday night, Providence on Saturday afternoon
Either way, you can officially say you did more than eat leftovers this weekend.
🧾 References
Discover Newport. (2024). 44th Annual Newport Illuminated Boat Parade.https://www.discovernewport.org
City of Newport. (2025). Newport Harbor Holiday Events Calendar. https://www.cityofnewport.com
Downtown Providence Parks Network. (2025). Winter Lights Market Event Schedule. https://www.providencedowntown.com
Providence Journal. (2024, December 2). Holiday Lights Return to Kennedy Plaza.https://www.providencejournal.com
