The 55th Annual Bowen’s Wharf Tree Lighting returns this Saturday, Dec. 6, bringing twinkling lights, fragrant wintergreens, and a massive Christmas tree to the historic waterfront.
Admission is free for the event, which features a full afternoon of live music, shopping, and dining, culminating in the lighting of the tree at 6 p.m.
Festivities begin at 12:30 p.m. with a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Throughout the afternoon, visitors can enjoy joyous performances from local choruses and ensembles.
The schedule of events is as follows:
- 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.: Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus at the North Pole
- 1:30 p.m.: Lois Vaughan Music
- 2:30 p.m.: Pennfield School Select Chorus
- 3:00 p.m.: Regency Brass
- 4:15 p.m.: Newport County Youth Chorus
- 5:00 p.m.: Carl Hosbond Trio
The tree lighting ceremony begins at 5:45 p.m. Promptly at 6 p.m., the tree will be lit, marking the official beginning of the holiday season at the wharf. Weather permitting, Santa and Mrs. Claus will motor into Bowen’s Basin by boat to greet the crowd and listen to children’s wishes.
Organizers encourage guests to arrive early for leisure holiday shopping. Many shops will offer sweet refreshments, and Bowen’s Wharf restaurants will remain open for holiday meals throughout the evening.
Recent visitors might recognize the location from the silver screen. Hallmark’s new movie, A Newport Christmas, was filmed at Bowen’s Wharf and premiered last month. It is currently available for streaming on Hallmark Plus.
For more details, visit the Bowen’s Wharf Facebook page.