Vacationing in South County, Rhode Island, is an excellent choice at any time of the year. Although the area is primarily known for its summertime fun, there’s enough happening during the holiday season to ensure you always have something to do.
The region’s Christmas events typically start in early December and last until the week leading up to the big day, giving you plenty of opportunities to check them out. Some are free, while others require tickets, so you’ll want to figure out how they work before you arrive.
Here’s a look at some of the Christmas events you’ll find in South County’s towns in 2022.
Westerly Holiday Stroll and Luminaria
On Wednesday, December 7, downtown Westerly will host its 25th Annual Holiday Stroll and Luminaria. The event runs from 5:00 until 9:00 PM and is a special night where local retailers stay open late to accommodate holiday shopping.
The streets will be brightly lit, and free hot chocolate is available, making this the perfect night to get some Christmas shopping done in a festive South County atmosphere. The event extends across the border into Pawcatuck, Connecticut, too, giving you more opportunities to find the perfect gift.
Christmas Pops at Home With The Chorus of Westerly
The annual Christmas Pops concert in Westerly is always a big draw around the holidays, and 2022 doesn’t look to be any different. This year’s events take place on December 17 at 7:00 PM and December 18 at 3:00 and 5:30 PM, so you’ll have a few chances to attend.
As always, this concert will feature performances of all your favorite holiday classics and is a family-friendly event that your kids will surely enjoy. Tickets range from $20-65, depending on their location, and you’ll want to book early because all three shows are certain to sell out.
Multi-Chamber Holiday Party
If you’re looking for a Christmas party during your South County vacation, the Multi-Chamber Holiday Party is an option. This event is a joint production by the Narragansett, Charlestown, North Kingstown, and Southern Rhode Island Chambers of Commerce and should be an enjoyable night, with all proceeds going to the E. Richard Durfee Scholarship STEM Fund.
The party takes place at George’s of Galilee in Narraganset on December 14 between 5:30 and 8:00 PM. Each $15 ticket comes with a complimentary cocktail and some snacks, and you can also purchase more food or drinks at the venue.
Santa’s Christmas Party
There’s also a more family-friendly holiday party at the Weekapaug Inn on Sunday, December 11. This event runs from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM and gives children and adults a chance to spend a day with Santa Claus.
The party includes craft stations, treats, refreshments, and a special meet-and-greet session with Saint Nick himself. Tickets are $55 for adults and $25 for kids between the ages of one and 12.
Westerly Light Parade 2022
Sunday, December 11, provides another reason to visit downtown Westerly, as this is when the 2022 Light Parade takes place. The parade runs from 6:00-7:00 PM and will feature floats created by local businesses.
Each float will incorporate Christmas lights into its designs, so the streets will be well-illuminated throughout the parade. Keep in mind that if the weather is bad, the parade will be moved to the following weekend on December 18.
300th Anniversary Town Hall Lighting
South Kingstown turns 300 years old in 2023, and an entire year-long extravaganza will kick off on Saturday, December 17, at 5:00 PM, with the annual Town Hall Lighting. This event will act as the official beginning of the town’s tri-centennial celebration, which will last for the entire year.
South Kingstown Town Hall is located on High Street in Wakefield, so you’ll want to head there early to be part of the action. There’s a bit of on-site parking, but more space is available down the street at Wakefield Elementary School.
Your Wintertime Holiday
You don’t have to avoid South County in the fall and winter because there are many events to check out as we move into colder weather. Christmas is an exceptional time of year in Rhode Island, and these events only scratch the surface of what you’ll find when you visit.
Be sure to book your vacation rental early so you don’t miss out on the action as the 2022 holiday season approaches in South County, Rhode Island.