Rhody Weekend Must-Do's: December 5-8

The Ocean State glimmers in colorful lights this weekend as every corner of the state makes merry and decks the halls with a slew of festive events. Catch tree lightings and Santa visits, see a classic Christmas story on the stage, shop art markets, and unwind with cozy crafting or craft beers. There’s all kinds of ways to celebrate!

In case of weather delays or last-minute cancellations, always call the venue or check online for updates before you go.

ALL WEEKEND

The capital city flips the switch on the holiday season with Three Nights of Lights, a festival of illumination with fun for all ages; art activations from WaterFire, FirstWorks, and The Avenue Concept; holiday markets; and of course, tree lightings. December 5-7, Providence  

For the first time in five years, Contemporary Theater Company stages A Christmas Carol, with five actors playing all the parts in this high-energy take on the classic story that the whole family can enjoy. December 5-8 and select dates through December 22, Wakefield

The Wickford Village Festival of Lights offers an old-fashioned Christmas experience, from horse-drawn hayrides with the man in red to the classic Ladies of the Rolling Pin performance. Don’t miss Saturday’s Elf Parade and much more. December 5-8, Wickford 

There’s nothing quite like the Bristol Christmas Festival, featuring an agenda packed with cheer. Unity Park is the setting of seasonal live music quartets and choirs, photos with the Grinch, face painting, and lots of local vendors. December 7-8, Bristol

FRIDAY, December 6

Gaze at lovingly crafted tannenbaums constructed by local businesses from recycled materials at Holiday Bright Night, with the annual re-Tree Community Exhibition on view and plenty of unique shopping to be had. 4-7pm, Tiverton

SATURDAY, December 7

The Tomaquag Museum invites all to celebrate and support Indigenous creatives at the Nikommo Artist Market. The traditional Narragansett holiday commemorates the act of giving, and guests are encouraged to bring a gift to donate. 12-4pm, Charlestown

Head to Rooms & Works across from Knead Doughnuts for the Jenny Brown Art X Ode to Joy Holiday Pop-Up. Peruse prints, small framed collages, sketches, cards, and stickers from Jenny Brown, and yarn products from Ode to Joy Fiber. 10am-2pm, Providence

From shopping in the Artisan Barn to family fun in the Outdoor Village, the Narragansett Holiday Street Faire channels Santa’s workshop. Hear live music, grab a bite from the bake sale, take photos with holiday scenes, and more. 10am-4pm, Narragansett

Take a beat and visit George Hail Free Library for Hygge Vibes For The Holidays. Learn about the cozy lifestyle and glean insights on meaningful gift giving, relaxing get-togethers, and well-being practices while sipping warm cider and making crafts. 1-2:30pm, Warren

Emo kids assemble – party like it’s ‘07 for Buttonwoods Brewery’s 7th Anniversary Party! There will be special beers on tap, tasty bites, and musical guests Strip Mall, Adulting, Sliimo, and Fine taking the stage. 7-11pm, Providence