As the holiday season approaches, The Breakers, a Gilded Age landmark in Newport, is set to illuminate with the enchanting “Sparkling Lights at The Breakers” for the fourth consecutive year. Running from November 17 through December 30 on select dates, visitors can experience a half-mile outdoor path adorned with glittering lights, colorful displays, and holiday melodies, creating a festive ambiance.
The illuminated journey includes dazzling tunnels of light and surprises, featuring a magnificent 50-foot long, 26-foot-tall light display in the shape of a train—a nod to the Vanderbilts’ New York Central and Hudson River Railroad. Warm up at fire pits scattered around the grounds, indulge in holiday treats and beverages available for purchase, and, new this year, enjoy a seasonal brunch at the Chinese Tea House overlooking the Cliff Walk.
Admission to “Sparkling Lights at The Breakers” requires a special ticket with a designated date and entry time, offering interior access to The Breakers during the same visit. Tour times range from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., with gates closing at 6:30 p.m. and the property concluding festivities at 8 p.m.
“We started ‘Sparkling Lights at The Breakers’ in 2020 during the pandemic because people were looking for outdoor experiences,” noted Trudy Coxe, CEO of The Preservation Society of Newport County. “Since then, it has grown every year and has become a holiday tradition for many in New England and beyond.”
In addition to the outdoor spectacle, “Holidays at the Newport Mansions” will bring festive decorations, themed Christmas trees, wreaths, and fresh floral arrangements to The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms. Elegant mannequins dressed in Gilded Age fashions will complement the décor, creating a captivating holiday atmosphere.
Chinese Tea House Seasonal Brunch:
Stoneacre Brasserie presents a three-course holiday brunch at the Chinese Tea House on the back lawn of Marble House. With breathtaking views of the Cliff Walk, the brunch includes a three-tier tea tower, entree selection, and assorted desserts, accompanied by complimentary tea service. Specialty cocktails and wines are available for purchase. The brunch is available on select dates from November 18 through December 31, with seatings at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.
For reservations and more information, visit Stoneacre Tea House on Resy.
The Preservation Society of Newport County, a nonprofit organization, is committed to preserving and interpreting the historic architecture, landscapes, decorative arts, and social history of Newport. With 11 historic properties spanning over 250 years of American architectural and social development, the society aims to provide a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region.
Complete List of Sparkling Lights Dates:
- November 17, 18, 24, 25
- December 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 17, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
Photos: Courtesy of The Preservation Society of Newport County
