(Photo of Ballard Park)
Discover the best events, activities and things to do during February in and around Newport, RI.

1 – Hotel Viking Wine Festival – February 6 & 20, 2016:
One Bellevue, the award winning restaurant at Hotel Viking in Newport has announced the Viking Wine Festival, a sequence of exceptional winemaker-hosted dinners featuring some of the top personalities from the world of wine. All dinners start at 7pm. Pricing of the wine dinners will range from $95 to $175 per person. To make a reservation call 401-848-4813 or email vikdining@hotelviking.com
2 – Sunday Gallery Sunday – February 7, 2016:
SUNDAY GALLERY SUNDAY was realized amongst a group of like-minded gallery owners and operators in Newport after attending several opening receptions and arts-oriented gatherings together in the fall of 2015.
The creators of this new event series will bring artists, artisans and art enthusiasts together while infusing the community with art, art viewing and education through self-guided options as well as a guided tour on the first Sunday of every month.
The event is FREE and tour goers are encouraged to start with a brunch at Diego’s Newport, just one of the businesses that support the arts within the community. The self-guided tour will have a map available at participating galleries and sponsors. Maps can also be see below and printed directly from the event website sundaygallerysunday.com.
The event will wrap with a lively Salon hosted by The Newport Art Museum Contemporaries and moderated by artist Rupert Nesbitt. Refreshments will be provided by Newport Wine Cellar & Le Petit Gourmet.
3 – 28th Annual Newport Winter Festival – February 12 – 21, 2016:
Featuring over 150 events, the Festival offers a unique winter experience combining food, festivities, music, and fun for all ages. www.newportwinterfestival.com
4 – 20th Annual Wineterfest – February 13 – 14, 2016:
Celebrate the season at the all-new Newport Vineyards with our 20th Annual WINEterfest. Enjoy wine tastings, our infamous Ice Wine Bar overlooking the winter vineyard, live music, and food sampling from Brix Restaurant, Fatullis Bakery & Deli and a selection of local purveyors. Saturday, February 13 + Sunday, February 14 12pm 5pm $22 per person in advance ($25 per person at the door) Admission includes wine tasting & select number of samples.
5 – Thomas Tew Rum Cocktail Competition – February 15, 2016:
On Monday, February 15th the Newport Distilling Company will host its second annual Thomas Tew Rum Cocktail contest at The Revolving Door Restaurant as a part of the 2016 Newport Winter Festival celebration! The competition will begin promptly at 9pm. Entry is $5 per person/free with a Winter Fest bracelet and there will be cocktail samples provided for the 21+ crowd. Please note that all proceeds from the entry fee will benefit James L. Maher Center, a local organization devoted to providing a broad range of services that advance independence and create opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities, their families, and the community at large.
The Revolving Door Restaurant, known for it’s rotation of world renowned and aspiring chefs, also has a deep rooted interest in the revival of Newport’s potent history. Mixologist Jason Kindness embraces Newport’s rum-runner past and has made The Revolving Door the go-to location for rum lovers both near and far. Located in the heart of downtown Newport, The Revolving Door has a very intimate atmosphere that will give you the opportunity to educate and interact with judges and guests alike.
Those interested in competing can fill out this contest form (http://bit.ly/1Q3r0rH). Applications will be accepted until February 10th at which time 8 contestants will be selected to compete. Let the spirit of Thomas Tew shine through and inspire your hand-crafted cocktail that highlights the unique and historical distilling elements found in Newport and Thomas Tew Authentic Pot Still Rum.
6 – Milk & Honey Cheese + Wine – February 17, 2016
Join Newport Vineyards for a winter warmer evening as our wine and cheese experts take you on a journey through Milk & Honey cheeses paired with Newport Vineyards wines. Dine at Brix following the class to cap off the night in front of their fireplace. Wednesday, Feb 17 | 6pm – 7:30pm. $35 per person
7 – 11th Annual Illuminated Garden – February 18 – 20, 2016:
Ballard Exploration Company presents the 11th Annual Illuminated Garden. The free event features thousands of lights displayed on the trees and unique features of Ballard Parks three acre quarry meadow from 6pm-9pm. Exhibits will be created by students and professional tree climbers. Event goers are advised to wear appropriate shoes or boots as the trail may be dark, muddy and uneven in places.
8 – 14th Annual Newport Bridal Show – February 20th, 2016:
Visit www.newportbridalshow.net for latest information and details.
9 – Mother Goose at Rosecliff – February 26-28, 2016:
This is a ballet designed for kids of all ages, adults too. Join Island Moving Co. for classic nursery rhymes recounted by Mother Goose and playfully brought to life by professional dancers. No strollers allowed. Repertory show with the Company on Friday and Saturday. Matinee on Saturday and two shows on Sunday.
10 – IMC’s Collection of Attitudes – February 26 & 27, 2016:
Island Moving Co will perform in two evenings of works at Rosecliff from the repertory and a new work by Florida choreographer Jerry Opdenaker on Friday and Saturday at 7pm.
For more information call 401 847-4470.