Sakonnet Vineyard will welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus to New England’s oldest vineyard on Sunday as part of a holiday kickoff celebration.
The event runs from 2 to 4 p.m. and includes complimentary photos with Santa, cookie decorating, mulled wine, and hot chocolate. A tree lighting will cap off the afternoon.
Guests are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the Tiverton Police Department’s Operation Blue Santa program, which provides holiday gifts to local children in need.
The celebration marks the start of the holiday season at Sakonnet, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The vineyard was founded in 1975 and sits on 169 acres with more than 20 acres under vine.
“Between the warmth of the tasting room fire and the glow of the outdoor fire pits, the vineyard takes on a quiet magic this time of year,” said Marissa Stashenko, director of operations. “It’s a cozy escape from the pace of the season — the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a glass of wine with friends.”
Additional holiday events include a Christmas market on Dec. 6 featuring more than a dozen local artisans, and a Christmas cookie and wine pairing on Dec. 13 with treats from the Coast Guard House pastry team.
Live music continues Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. throughout the season, with performances by Ruby Mac, Frank Foot, Stefan Couture, and Dave Alves.
The tasting room is open Wednesday, Thursda,y and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from noon to 7 p.m.
For more information, visit sakonnetwine.com.
