The Preservation Society of Newport County is preparing for a bustling holiday season with a range of new offerings and ongoing projects.
Trudy Coxe, President and CEO of the organization, shared details about upcoming events and initiatives in an interview with What’sUpNewp on Friday, November 1
The holiday festivities at Newport Mansions kick off on November 22, with decorated houses open through January 1. A highlight of the season is Sparkling Lights at The Breakers, running from November 22 to December 29 on Thursday through Sunday evenings.
“It’s pretty spectacular,” Coxe said of the holiday decorations at The Breakers. “Several dozen trees are decorated.”
The event, born out of necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic, has become a popular attraction. Visitors can enjoy s’mores on the terrace and explore the newly restored landscape of The Breakers.
“It gives people a really great chance to see how the garden looks decorated at night and be out in the fresh air,” Coxe explained. “It’s beautiful. It’s awe-inspiring. There’s something very mystical about it.”
For those interested in holiday decorating, the Preservation Society is offering workshops led by their experts. Jim Donahue, the organization’s landscape curator and designer, will share tips on tree decorating. Jeff Curtis, head of gardens and landscapes, will lead a workshop on creating holiday wreaths.
Looking ahead to 2024, Coxe revealed plans to reinvent the museum tour experience at The Elms. The Preservation Society is working with Digital Kitchen, an immersive technology firm, to create interventions that will allow visitors to hear, smell, and see things in new ways.
“I think it’s going to really be important for people to enjoy the house in a non-standard way,” Coxe said.
The organization is also preparing for the return of Coaching Weekend, a triennial event featuring vintage horse-drawn coaches. Coxe described it as “a throwback to another century” and encouraged people to enjoy the spectacle while they can, as it’s becoming a rare sight.
Behind the scenes, the Preservation Society continues its ongoing restoration and maintenance work. A major project on the horizon is the restoration of the terrace at The Breakers, estimated to cost about $4 million.
“We are never ahead of the game,” Coxe said of the constant need for upkeep. “You can’t just repair the roof and that’s it. No, it comes around.”
To support these efforts, the Preservation Society relies heavily on its membership base, which Coxe said numbers around 35,000 worldwide. The organization also generates revenue through its stores, special events, and corporate and wedding rentals.
Coxe emphasized the importance of the Newport Mansions to the local economy and community. “We are one of the four most important museums in New England,” she said. “We bring prestige to this community that no one can rival.”
Despite the challenges of maintaining such historic properties, Coxe remains optimistic about the future. She encouraged locals to take advantage of the free admission offered to Newport residents and the various programs available throughout the year.
“I hope that Newporters will come and visit often,” Coxe said. “We’ve got many more children’s programming, so if you are a mother or father and you’re looking for something for your children to do, check us out.”
As the holiday season approaches, the Newport Mansions stand ready to welcome visitors with a blend of historic charm and modern innovations, continuing their role as a cornerstone of Newport’s cultural landscape.
For more information, visit www.newportmansions.org.
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