Buy Local Providence

This cherished holiday tradition continues with performances through New Year's Eve. This year’s performance evokes the magic and hope of the season and its contemporary relevance. Guided by Jacob Marley and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, Ebenezer Scrooge embarks on a heartwarming journey toward redemption.

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.

401-563-3333 / Stop into Ellie's and grab yourself something yummy for breakfast or lunch. Choose from freshly baked breads, pastries, sandwiches, goodies and more. As a bonus, Ellie's sources ingredients from area farmers and producers, so you can really keep it local.

With local goodies like Aunt Carrie's Clam Cake & Fritter Mix, Catanzaro's Egg Biscuits, Dave's Coffee and more, you can pick up a taste of home to send to those far-away friends and family who are missing their Little Rhody favorites.

Enjoy a beer at any one of the capital city’s craft breweries or pick up some cans to go. There’s something for all types of beer lovers from Long Live Beerworks, Trinity Brewhouse and Union Station Brewery. Beer not your thing? Pick up a bottle of red or white at Eno Fine Wines or Federal Hill Wine & Spirits. Or, hey, why not grab one of each?

The Providence Children’s Museum, Rhode Island’s only hands-on museum for kids and their families, never ceases to entertain the little ones. Visitors are inspired to learn through interactive exhibits and programs that explore the arts, culture, history and science. Be sure to check out the museum’s playfully reimagined “Coming to Rhode Island” exhibit, where you can take off on a time-traveling adventure through Rhode Island’s history.

Enjoy the splendor of the holiday season at its richest in 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.

Need a gift for that hard-to-shop-for person on your list? Something handmade from Gather Glass is the way to go, whether you make it yourself or buy a one-of-a-kind item from the studio. Better yet, get them a gift certificate for their own glass blowing class!

Shop local at The Providence Flea on Sundays (11 a.m.—3 p.m.), featuring unique and affordable gifts from 75+ rotating vendors at each market. Cocktails, craft beer, coffee and food trucks add to the fun atmosphere.

If you’re looking to discover some local Black-owned businesses, our friends at Providence Monthly have a great online directory to get you started. Order up some delicious sugary confections from Sarcastic Sweets, relax with a calming tea blend from The Black Leaf Tea & Culture Shop, or pamper yourself with organic bath products from Soulita Soap.

With events like the PVD Artisans Market and the Good Trade Makers Market, as well as ongoing exhibits by local artists, there is always something going on at the WaterFire Arts Center. Shop for unique gifts and WaterFire apparel in the store while you're there.

Grab a coffee or a bubble tea and take a stroll down Hope, Thayer or Wickenden streets. You'll find lots of cool stores like Frog & Toad or Books on the Square.

Treat yourself to a hearty dinner at your favorite spot on the Hill. Enjoy comfort food for the whole family from Angelo’s, or assorted apps and savory entrees from Pane e Vino. The options are endless — and delicious.

401-272-4285 / This iconic, quirky shop on Westminster Street in Downtown Providence is filled with unique handmade items, including clothing, jewelry, housewares, artwork and so much more. Shop in-person or online for cool gifts or something fun for yourself.

401-666-0088 / Relax with seasonal cocktails (or mocktails) and Middle Eastern dishes like Smoked Tahini Eggplant or Lamb Flatbread. Or meet your pals for an end-of-day round of Espresso Martinis.

401-680-7390 / The Providence Rink opens in early December for another season of ice skating and ice bumper cars. Forgot your gloves? You can buy a pair, along with hats, scarves and other merchandise. Can't skate? Not to worry — you can rent a fun penguin or snowman skate aid and hit the ice with the experts.

401-312-4250 / The Farm Fresh Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at their Sims St. location in Providence. The weekly market features a variety of local farm and food vendors. Check their site for special happenings throughout the season. Photo: Courtesy of Farm Fresh RI

If a change of scenery is what you need, it's time to plan a staycation in the city. Start by booking an overnight at one of Providence's hotels, with options to suit any taste or budget. Take in a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or The VETS, browse through downtown's shops and boutiques, and head over to Track 15 to grab a bite from one of the food hall's delicious dining options.

With a wide variety of shopping and dining choices in nearby Cranston, Garden City Center brings shopping and family fun together.

401-369-8427 / Order a cake or two for your holiday celebrations! Expecting a crowd? Check out their selection of mini desserts featuring cupcakes, cannoli, whoopie pies and more.