The 28th Annual Newport Winter Festival, “New England’s Largest Winter Extravaganza”, will take place February 12th – 21st, 2016 throughout Newport and Newport County.
Featuring over 150 events, the Newport Winter Festival offers a unique winter experience combining food, festivities, music, and fun for all ages. With an average of 12 – 15 events per day, there’s something for everyone.
Recommended: Experience Polar Pineapples: RI’s Largest Ice Bar
Of course we encourage you to check out the Newport Winter Festival Calendar and enjoy as many events as possible. But, if you can only do one thing per day, here’s our favorite event happening each day of Newport Winter Festival; you know…the events you shouldn’t miss!
Friday, February 12: 9pm at Hyatt Regency Newport – Relive the Beatles Revolution with members from “The Cast of Beatlemania.” These performers bring the best-loved popular music of all time to Newport. Bring your dancing shoes! $20/$15 w/bracelet. VIP Tickets available: (includes 1 drink ticket and up front seating) $45/$40 w/bracelet. Buy Tickets
Saturday, February 13: 11am to 3:30pm at Newport Hotel – Winter heats up as area restaurants, caterers and the local fire department compete to see who has the best chili in town when they compete in the 21st Annual Samuel Adams Chili Cook-Off! Bring your appetite, sharpen your taste buds, and join in the fun as you choose your favorite chili! Adults $10/$7 w/bracelet, Children (6-10) $3/$2 w/bracelet. Children under 5 Free! Tickets will be available for purchase at the door- advance tickets are not required.
Sunday, February 14: 9pm at Gas Lamp Grille – Multiple bartenders from around Rhode Island will be competing in the 9th Annual Tropical Drink Contest. Let the taste of their tropical concoctions transport you away from this snowy winter. 21+, free entry and free samples.
Monday, February 15: 9pm at The Revolving Door Restaurant – Local bartenders will be competing in the 2nd Annual Thomas Tew Rum Cocktail Contest. The Revolving Door has a very intimate atmosphere that will give you the opportunity to educate and interact with judges and guests alike. $5 per person and 21+.
Tuesday, February 16: Samuel Adams Beer Dinner, 6pm at The Mooring Seafood Kitchen and Bar – Enjoy this annual event as a visiting brewmaster from Sam Adams brewery guides guests through a selection of beers paired with a distinct menu specially prepared by the Mooring chefs for this occasion. Reception begins at 6pm; dinner at 6:30pm. For a complete menu, visit www.mooringrestaurant.com. $55 per person/$50 with Newport Winterfest bracelet. Reservations are required. Please call 401.846.2260.
Wednesday. February 17: 2pm to 4pm at Brick Alley Pub – BAP will host their 28th Annual Nacho Tasting during Newport Winter Festival. Enjoy award winning nachos for free with a Newport Winter Festival bracelet and purchase of a beverage.
Thursday, February 18: 6pm-9pm: 10th Annual Illuminated Garden, Ballard Park
Ballard Park. Thousands of lights displayed in the three-acre quarry meadow. FREE.
Friday, February 19: 3pm: Polar Pineapples at Hyatt Regency Newport Hotel and Spa, One Goat Island. Pineapples on the Bay will be transformed again this year for the 3rd annual Polar Pineapples. Try a signature infused cocktail or specialty hot drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available) while enjoying views of the bay. This year will feature a variety of ice sculptures and an ice luge! Hours 3-9pm Free Hot Chocolate at the Five33 Lounge w/bracelet, 401.851.1234.
Saturday, February 20: 8:00pm Boston’s Premier Top 40 Country Band: Walkin’ the Line – Hyatt Regency, 1 Goat Island. Recently nominated for best country music band in Boston! Walkin’ The Line is a high energy, top 40 country band taking New England by storm! Bringing years of experience with some of the best bands around and opening for country legends like Charlie Daniels, Lorrie Morgan, and Travis Tritt to name a few, they are ready to bring their live show to the Newport Winter Festival! With influences ranging from Miranda Lambert to Carrie Underwood, Jason Aldean to Kip Moore, this band is sure to keep you dancing all night. Tickets are for sale online and at the door, $12/ $10 with bracelet.
Sunday, February 21: 1pm at Easton’s Beach – People of all ages enjoy the spectacle of horsemanship and breath-taking views of Newport’s renown Beaches when the ponies and players put on a Winter Festival Beach Polo match on the sand. The event is a low-impact, eco friendly exhibition that is part of the fun during Newport Winter Festival. FREE!