We all know that the holidays can be stressful times. Between shopping for gifts for your second cousin's kid's nephew, and planning the perfect meal with all of the fixins (even lasagna for that one person who doesn't eat turkey), there seems to be no time to relax and enjoy the holiday spirit. Take a break from all of that shopping and prepping by going to one of these amazing events in and around Providence to get your jolly on.
A Christmas Carol (Nov. 9–Dec. 31)
Rhode Island’s family holiday classic returns to tell the joyful story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from solitude to redemption. Inspired by Tiny Tim and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, Scrooge learns lessons that continue to remind us all about the true spirit of the holiday season.
Holiday Lights Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo (Nov. 24–Dec. 31)
Grab a hot beverage and stroll through the Holiday Lights Spectacular, featuring more than 3.5 million illuminated lights that turn the zoo into a winter wonderland. From radiant reindeer to sparkly snowmen, and even an occasional Santa sighting, it's a fun family event for all ages.
Celebrate Downcity 2023 & Rock & Roll Yard Sale (Nov. 25)
Kick off the holiday season and buy local with Celebrate Downcity on Small Business Saturday. Featuring shops and restaurants on Westminster Street, between Eddy and Union streets, the event features indoor and outdoor shopping, food trucks, music and interactive holiday entertainment. And this year includes a special holiday edition of the Rock and Roll Yard Sale!
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical (Nov. 28–Dec. 3)
Discover the magic of "Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical," a production that has delighted thousands of families on Broadway and across the nation. Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ beloved story.
Providence's Three Nights of Lights (Dec. 1–3)
Explore tree lightings, holiday shopping events, an ice sculpture garden and a WaterFire at Three Nights of Lights presented by Dunkin'. Performance and art experiences by Firstworks and The Avenue Concept add to the holiday lights experience, and it's all in support of Special Olympics Rhode Island.
Ballet RI Presents: The Nutcracker (Dec. 15–24)
Enjoy the splendor of the holiday season at its richest at Ballet RI's lavish production of "The Nutcracker." Join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on an enchanted journey brought to life with stunning sets, thrilling choreography and world-class dancing.
Billy Gilman: Home for the Holidays Concert (Dec. 16)
Grammy nominee and finalist on NBC’s "The Voice," Billy Gilman will bring his favorite holiday classics (as well as some non-holiday tunes) to The Greenwich Odeum in East Greenwich.