'Harbor Lights' To Illuminate Newport Waterfront

NEWPORT, RI — From September 20 to 21, thousands of lights will brighten the night along the waterfront district. The first-ever Newport Harbor Lights will light up businesses, boats and restaurants, with prizes awarded to those with the best lights.

"This is an idea we’ve been developing for a couple of years now, and as Newport has such an extraordinary boating community combined with a pedestrian-friendly harborfront, the event is a natural fit and will invite people to see our city, pardon the pun, in a whole new light," said Matt Gineo, the event's chairman. "I'm confident Harbor Lights will truly capture the spirit and beauty of our legendary waterfront."

Anyone who owns a boat, restaurant or business in the area is encouraged to take part in the two-day event, which will run from dusk until 10 p.m.

The event is not a boat parade. Boats will stay at their slips or moorings, with owners encouraged to host parties to celebrate the end of summer with their friends and family as the public strolls by, admiring the lights.

"Many destinations around the world have developed impressive and innovative platforms to utilize light as an applied art form either as the cornerstone of a special event or to enhance a special event," said Evan Smith, the CEO of Discover Newport. "Our goal with Harbor Lights is to celebrate the inspiration of light and its transformative power."

Each marina will award prizes to the top three best-decorated boats, with a larger prize going to the best-decorated marina or waterfront business. Judging will be on Friday, followed by the awarding of prizes on Saturday.

The rain or shine event is sponsored by Discover Newport and the Newport Maritime Alliance.