Bowen's Wharf Announces Illuminated Boat Parade & Tree Lighting

From Bowen's Wharf: Sail into the most magical time of the year! Two festivities launch Newport’s Holidays by the Sea: the 20th Annual Illuminated Boat Parade & Bowen’s Wharf Block Party followed by the 47th Annual Bowen’s Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting.

A 30-foot tree was delivered to Bowen’s Wharf and the waterfront will soon be bathed in holiday lights with businesses open late into the evening for Christmas shopping.

“On Friday, November 24th at 6:15 p.m. spectators can view the dazzling display of nautical holiday spirit along Newport Harbor’s waterfront from Bowen’s Wharf, Bannister’s Wharf, and points around Newport Harbor,” says Tim Mills, City of Newport Harbormaster.

The Bowen’s Wharf Merchants’ Association will present live Caribbean Christmas music performed at “The North Pole” by steel pan percussionist Aaron Abrahamson Cote & Panoramic View. Our shops and galleries will be open until 8pm (restaurants later) with in-store promotions, random acts of cheer, and decorated with evergreens, sparkling white lights and all that the City-by-the-Sea offers.

Reservations for waterview dining are encouraged and should be made directly with the restaurants. Viewing of the parade outdoors, and the Block Party, are free of charge, making this a great family event to get into the spirit of the holiday season. Some businesses will offer free refreshments.

On Saturday, December 2nd Frosty the Snowman will arrive at 4:30 pm, followed by the Christmas Carol Sing-a-long at 5 pm for the 47th Annual Bowen’s Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting. The Mayor of Newport lights the 30-foot tree promptly at 6 pm immediately followed by the cheerful arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus by boat, weather permitting (or by magic)! Music will continue until every child has had a chance to whisper their Christmas wishes to Santa at “The North Pole.”

Join us for a magical evening of charm, fun, and caroling on the waterfront at historic Bowen’s Wharf. Shops & galleries are open before, and after the event until 8pm .The summer favorite, Sprinkles Ice Cream, will open specially with hot chocolate, hot dogs and elfish fare. Voted BEST CHRISTMAS LIGHTS in Rhode Island in 2017 by Travel & Leisure Bowen's Wharf is hoping to take top honors again this year.

Throughout December doors will be open late on many evenings in conjunction with the Newport Holiday Stroll and ongoing Holidays by the Sea activities.

Two hours of validated parking are available from participating Bowen’s Wharf merchants through the holidays.

SHOP HOURS (different for restaurants):
Holiday Hours: November 24, 2017 to December 24, 2017 (store hours vary on 24th)
Fridays and Saturdays: 10am - 8pm Sunday through Thursday: 10am - 5pm

Bowen’s Wharf 47th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting (FREE admission)
Saturday, December 2, 2017
13 Bowen’s Wharf
Newport RI
Please note, the Bowen’s Wharf parking lot will close at 4 pm the day of the tree lighting.
4:30 pm - Frosty the Snowman
5:00 pm - Christmas Carol Sing-A-Long (live music)
6:00 pm - Tree Lighting, Santa & Mrs. Claus arrive

City of Newport's 20th Annual Newport Harbor Illuminated Boat Parade & Bowen's Wharf Block Party (Free admission)

Friday, Nov. 24

6pm (boats travel in a clockwise direction starting south of the Goat Island Causeway) Live Music at Bowen's Wharf, complimentary in-store refreshments, gifts with purchase and more

Contact Tim Mills, Harbormaster for Parade information, 401-845-5815, tmills@cityofnewport.com

Newport Holiday Stroll
Friday-Sunday December 1-3 & Friday-Sunday December 8-10. Newport Skating Center opens, puppet shows, VIP shopping tours, 15% off discount at participating restaurants with retail purchase receipt. www.newportholidaystroll.com for details.

For holiday and winter event details, business directory and more photos or video, visit www.bowenswharf.com and our social media channels. For hi-res photo of attached please contact Trixie Wadson/Bowen’s Wharf Co and credit same.

Historic Bowen’s Wharf is the Anchor of the Newport waterfront. The brick walks, granite quays and 18th century commercial wharf buildings are reminiscent of its beginnings as a thriving port in one of the finest natural harbors in New England. Trading with all corners of the world, then and now, Bowen’s Wharf is central to the city’s commerce and culture. Today, it boasts over two-dozen owner-operated shops, galleries, and restaurants featuring a delightful mix of New England traditions and international flair. Here, you’ll find distinctive and locally crafted pottery, hand-blown glass, and scrimshaw, along with exceptional jewelry, fashion, and art. Casual eateries and award-winning restaurants offer menus ranging from baked goods, gourmet sandwiches, and sweet treats, to world-class steaks, seafood, extensive wine lists, specialty beers, and exotic cocktails. To complete your island experience, choose from a selection of sailing and motor yacht tours and cruise Narragansett Bay in style. Enjoy the shops and restaurants year round, open seven days a week. Learn more about merchants, dockage, and events at www.bowenswharf.com, or by calling401.849.2120. Bowen’s Wharf: The Anchor of Newport, Since 1760. #bowenswharf #anchorofnewport

Image Courtesy of Trixie Wadson