In Newport, Holidays Offer Another Chance to Explore History

Newport is a world-class tourist destination and known for being an ideal summer frolicking spot.

Those in the know have known for some time that it’s also a choice place to spend time -- and money -- during the holiday seasons. And it’s not just for the great shopping.

Consider the programs offered by the Newport Historical Society this winter.

There’s the annual Holiday Open House, a family-friendly walking tour and tours that offers fascinating history lessons.

Here’s the details:

Holiday Open House
Monday December 1, 2014 5pm-6pm
Tour the 1739 Colony House before Christmas in Newport’s opening ceremony. Enjoy festive music from across the globe performed by Newport String Project. Violinists EmmaLee Holmes-Hicks and Ealain McMullin will bring a potpourri of lively music to celebrate Newport’s vast history and mark the start of the holiday season. Admission is free, donations are welcome.

Holiday Histories Tour
November 14, 15; 21, 22; 28, 29 at 4:30pm
December 4, 5, 6; 11, 12, 13; 18, 19, 20; 26, 27 at 4:30pm
Hear the history of early American holiday traditions on an evening walk and learn how Newporters recognized the holiday. Reservations required to guarantee a spot on the tour. Weather permitting. $15 per person, $10 NHS members and active duty military with IS; $5 children ages 5-12.
401-841-8770

Discover Colonial Newport in Winter
December 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 11am
On this walking tour, hear stories of religious diversity and entrepreneurship and learn how colonial Newporters made their way through the winter. Weather permitting. $15 per person, $10 NHS members and active duty military with ID;
$5 children ages 5-12. Reservations suggested,

401-841-8770.

Rogues & Scoundrels Tour
December 26 & 29 at 11am
See where scoundrels lived, pirates profited and criminals were punished. Find out why this colony was known as “Rogue’s Island.” Weather permitting. $15 per person, $10 NHS members and active duty military with IS; $5 children ages 5-12. Reservations suggested, 401-841-8770.

Tours depart from the Brick Market: Museum & Shop, 127 Thames Street, Newport, RI. The Museum, which opens daily at 10am, presents an introduction of Newport’s history and architecture from the 17th century through the Gilded Age. The shop offers a selection of fine gifts, books, jewelry and souvenirs relating to Newport’s history.