Newport Recreation has a packed schedule of holiday events and winter programming lined up at the Martin Recreation Center — better known as The Hut.
The festivities begin Sunday, Dec. 14, when Santa Claus stops by from 10 a.m. to noon for a free, family-friendly visit. Kids can meet Santa and snap photos in a casual setting. Call 401-845-5800 for more information.
During the school break, the department will offer a two-day Vacation Camp on Dec. 22–23 for children in grades K–4. The program includes seasonal crafts, games, and group activities. Cost is $80 per child, and registration is required at register.communitypass.net.
Young artists can close out the year with a Winter Paint Party on Dec. 30. The session for ages 6–10 runs from 10–11 a.m., while kids 11 and older can join from 1–2:30 p.m. Registration is required.
On the sports side, Newport Recreation’s Basketball Recreation League for grades 1–8 returns in January. The program focuses on skill-building and teamwork over competition — no scores or standings are kept. Games run Saturdays from Jan. 3 through Feb. 28. The registration deadline is Dec. 15, with fees starting at $80 for residents.
An instructional program for kindergartners and first-graders will also be offered on Saturday mornings beginning Jan. 3.
For full details and registration, visit CityofNewport.com/Recreation.
