South County is an excellent spot for a winter break because it’s far quieter than in the summer, ensuring you can explore without the crowds. Popular wintertime spots in the area include the trails around the various kettle ponds, the Yawgoo Valley Snow Tubing Park, and the Washington Trust Community Skating Center.
You can also check out the beaches in the winter, although you won’t want to go in the water, or sample the cuisine at the popular restaurants in Wakefield and Westerly.
If you book a South County vacation rental between February 17 and 26, heading to Newport and experiencing the community’s Winter Festival is also an option. Newport is only 15 minutes from North Kingstown via the Jamestown Verrazzano and Claiborne Pell/Newport bridges, so you can get there in a hurry.
Here’s a look at the activities and events you’ll find when attending the 2023 Newport Winter Festival.
Music and Concerts
You’ll encounter music most days during the Newport Winter Festival, with concerts taking place at various venues all over town.
February 17 will feature a show by The Eagles Experience at the Wyndham Newport, and there will be a concert by Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band Changes in Latitude the following night at the Newport Harbor Island Resort.
On February 23, you can head to Greenvale Vineyards in Portsmouth for some live jazz music, and a country concert is scheduled for February 25 at a yet-to-be-named venue.
Tickets will be required for some of these shows, so purchase well in advance if you’re interested in attending.
Food and Cocktails
Of course, food and drinks will be a major part of the 2023 Newport Winter Festival.
Those who want to enjoy a drink by the fire are encouraged to visit the Newport Harbor Island Resort on February 17 or 18 for Polar Pineapples. Upon arrival, you can purchase a drink from the ice bar and stay warm around one of the venue’s 11 firepits while enjoying some beautiful views of the bay. You’ll also receive free apple cider with your purchase.
The same venue will also host the 25th Annual Chili Cook-Off on February 18, as some of the region’s best restaurants and catering companies will face off to see who has coastal Rhode Island’s best chili. You can join in the fun and sample the offerings, and there will be beer specials on-site, as well.
Speaking of beer, The Mooring Seafood Kitchen and Bar is hosting a beer dinner on February 21 at 6:00 PM. The gist is that the restaurant’s chefs will create a menu with beer pairings in mind, and a professional brewmaster will guide you through the entire experience. The event will feature a four-course meal and some hors d’oeuvres, with five beer pairings.
February 23 will feature the annual Best Hot Drink Contest at the Red Parrot Restaurant. This event allows you to judge the best hot drink in Newport as prepared by several local bars and restaurants. Admission and samples are free.
Comedians and Magicians
Comedy and magic make up a significant part of the Newport Winter Festival in 2023, starting with a show by juggler and comedian Robert Clarke on February 20. Clarke’s high-energy performance is sure to entertain the entire family, and there’s a significant amount of audience interaction that will keep you engaged.
February 24 will be a big night for entertainment, as there are two shows worth checking out. First, at 6:30, Mysterious Deceptions with Illusionist David Garrity will take over the Newport Marriott. This show will feature various Houdini-style stunts and escapes that will leave you amazed.
At 8:30, the annual Winter Festival Comedy Show will come to the Wyndham Newport. Organizers are still sorting out the official lineup, but it’s sure to be a blast with some nationally-recognized comedians taking the stage.
Activities For Kids
Keeping your kids occupied on vacation isn’t always easy, but the 2023 Newport Winter Festival will help, thanks to its abundance of family-friendly events.
February 19 will feature the Toe Jam Puppet Band, a group of children’s entertainers that know how to keep the party going. Adults are sure to love the original songs they perform, as well. There will be a Rainforest Reptile show on the same day, letting your kids get up close to snakes, turtles, lizards, and even an alligator. Don’t worry; they won’t get too close. Both events take place at the Newport Marriott.
The Mad Science Show on February 20 will surely be popular with your kids, as it includes various science experiments that will blow their minds. The next day will feature a teddy bear storytime event with milk and cookies for the kids, and on February 22, a princess party will come to OceanCliff Castle.
Beach Polo
One event you probably didn’t see coming is winter beach polo. On February 25 and 26, the Newport International Polo Series will hold polo matches on the beach.
You don’t have to understand the rules to appreciate the skill of these horses and riders, and the free event gives you the chance to check it out for the first time.
A Vacation Rental in South County
Although Newport isn’t part of South County, it’s close enough that you can drive from your vacation rental a few times to check out these events. Having a winter festival nearby without having to stay in the heart of it ensures you find all the relaxation you need this holiday without the crowds.
Book your vacation rental today to ensure you’re close to the 2023 Newport Winter Festival.