Celebrating the Holiday Season in Rhode Island: A Blend of Spiritual Splendor and Coastal Charm

In the picturesque state of Rhode Island, nestled along its idyllic coastline, a unique blend of spirituality and romanticism permeates the air during the holiday season. Here, amidst a rich cultural tapestry and an invigorating progressive spirit, locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate with fervor while honoring deep spiritual callings. From historic churches adorned with twinkling lights to quaint coastal villages buzzing with festive cheer, Rhode Islanders know how to revel in both traditional rituals and inventive celebrations.

One such event that encapsulates this marriage between spirituality and merriment is the annual Christmas Eve Lantern Walk (Waterman Street Baptist Church, 400 Waterman St., Providence). As darkness falls over Providence's streetscape on December 24th, families gather at this charming church for an enchanting procession. Carrying handmade lanterns inspired by Japanese traditions, participants embark on a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood as they sing carols under moonlit skies.

For those seeking inspiration from diverse faiths, Newport hosts an enlightening Interfaith Candlelight Service (St. Marys Episcopal Church - Cornerstone Building Chapel & Gardens , 324 East Main Road Portsmouth) just before Christmas Day itself arrives. Leaders from various religious communities join hands in unity to create a truly inclusive celebration of peace and love. The flickering candlelight illuminates not only saints portrayed on stained glass windows but also hearts yearning for harmony across borders.

Rhode Island's commitment to artistic expressions finds its way into holiday festivities as well. In Bristol (Herreshoff Marine Museum & America's Cup Hall Of Fame , One Burnside Street), one can witness The Nutcracker Ballet performed by local talents who effortlessly capture Tchaikovsky's timeless magic onstage each December weekend leading up to Christmas Day. This mesmerizing ballet blends classical technique with the progressive spirit of Rhode Island, showcasing the state's deep appreciation for both tradition and innovation.

As daylight melts into dusk, Providence's WaterFire (Providence River - South Main Street) offers a breathtaking sensory experience. This unique installation art exhibit combines fire and water to create an ethereal ambiance along the city's riverside parkways. During the holiday season, WaterFire takes on a special glow as glowing Christmas trees line the riverbanks, casting their reflection onto shimmering waters while flickering bonfires warm hearts in these chilly wintery nights.

For those seeking whimsical enchantment amidst picturesque surroundings, The Polar Express Train Ride (Old Colony & Newport Scenic Railroad , 19 America Way Portsmouth) transports passengers on a magical journey inspired by Chris Van Allsburgs beloved book. Families board vintage trains adorned with holiday lights and decorations as they embark on an imaginary trip to Santa's North Pole workshop. With hot cocoa served onboard and carols filling every carriage, this charming coastal ride brings cherished childhood memories to life.

In true Rhode Island fashion that embraces cultural richness and inventive celebrations, The Great Dickens Christmas Fair (John Brown House Museum , 52 Power St., Providence) recreates Victorian-era England right in downtown Providence. Visitors are transported back in time through lively street performances by actors dressed in period costumes who bring characters from Charles Dickens' novels to life. From Ebenezer Scrooge begrudgingly joining merry dances to Tiny Tim captivating audiences with his heartfelt spirit, this fair evokes both nostalgia and joy.

So whether you're drawn towards spiritual gatherings that honor diverse faiths or yearn for light-hearted festivities that capture your imagination during the holiday season, Rhode Island offers an abundance of options within its charming coastal idylls. Embrace its rich culture while reveling in events that blend deep traditions with innovative twists reminiscent of artistic works celebrated across books like The Scarlet Letter, poems written by Edgar Allan Poe, and films like Moonrise Kingdom. Experience the vivacious spirit of Rhode Island as it welcomes you to create your own holiday memories amidst its revolutionary landscapes.

Websites and Twitter Handles:

- Waterman Street Baptist Church: watermanstreet.org

- St. Mary's Episcopal Church - Cornerstone Building Chapel & Gardens: stmarysnewport.org

- Herreshoff Marine Museum & America's Cup Hall Of Fame: herreshoff.org

- Providence River WaterFire: waterfire.org

- Old Colony & Newport Scenic Railroad: ocnrr.com/polarexpress

- John Brown House Museum: rihs.org/visit/john-brown-house