Best time to go to Rhode Island

Christmas Lights in Rhode Island 2024-2025

Get into the Christmas spirit with spectacular light displays in Rhode island

Dates: mid-November–early January

Christmas Lights in Rhode Island
Christmas Lights in Rhode Island
WaterFire Providence

Rhode Island residents take decorating for Christmas very seriously. Drive through the beautiful Holiday Trail Of Lights, passing Warwick, East Providence, Pawtucket, and Tiverton, to see the most impressive seasonal displays in the state. The lights go on after dusk and stay until 9 pm or 10 pm in the evening. Some annual holiday events also take place in the capital of Rhode Island, Providence.

Christmas WaterFire (November 4, 2023)

WaterFire is a signature event for Rhode Island. This art installation by Barnaby Evans has been showcased on the rivers of downtown Providence since 1994. The annual art phenomenon takes place several times throughout the year, in particular, during the Christmas holidays. 86 burning braziers float on the river in Waterplace Park, while more braziers are installed on the piers. Flickering flames, the smell of wood smoke, and music create a real holiday atmosphere in downtown Providence. The event is attended by tens of thousands of people. It starts at sunset around 4:15 pm and lasts till 10 pm.

Holiday Lights Spectacular (November 24–December 31, 2023)

Holiday Lights Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence is a beloved tradition for many Rhode Island families. The amazing walk-through light display with over 1.5 million colorful LEDs is available on select nights from late November till early January. It features larger-than-life luminous installations and many surprises for the little ones. The lights are on from 5 to 9:30 pm. Tickets are available for purchase online only.

Rhode Island Holiday Light Show (November 17–December 31, 2023; on selected dates)

Holiday Light Show is a Christmas spectacular, located in Hope, Rhode Island. It features many larger-than-life holiday-themed displays, synched to Christmas music. You can enjoy a one-mile route through the Holiday Light Show in the comfort of your own car from late November through New Year's Eve.

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Last updated: by Olga Valchyshen