'Sparkling Lights At The Breakers' Returns For 2nd Season

NEWPORT, RI — The holidays have arrived in Newport. After the sun went down Friday, the night was illuminated with thousands of colorful lights at The Breakers, the crown jewel of the Preservation Society of Newport County's Gilded Age mansions.

This is the second year the organization has held "Sparkling Lights at The Breakers." Last year, the display was created out of necessity, as coronavirus restrictions made the traditional, indoor holiday celebrations at the mansions more difficult. The event was so popular that it was brought back for a second year, this year bigger and better than ever.

"What a wonderful success it turned out to be, so much so that we're here for an encore performance," said Newport Mayor Jeanne-Marie Napolitano. "This has become a premiere attraction for future generations."

Trudy Coxe, the CEO of the Preservation Society, added that the display showcases parts of the property that are generally more overlooked. This year, the display was expanded from just the front drive area to include the side of the house as well, showcasing a beautiful fountain of lights, a fully lit up sailboat and lights in the decorative side garden.

The interior of The Breakers is decked out for Christmas, as well, along with Marble House and the Elms. The houses are open on the following schedule:

The Breakers

• Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, through Jan. 9
• Last admission to the house and grounds: 4 p.m. weekdays, 3 p.m. Thursday through Sunday
• Sparkling Lights requires a separate ticket and will be open Thursday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The house and grounds will close at 4 p.m. these days before reopening at 5 p.m. for the lights display.
• The house will be open for tours during Sparkling Lights hours.
• Dec 18: Last admission 3 p.m., no Sparkling Lights

The Elms and Marble House

• Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Jan. 2.
• Last tour admission 4 p.m, grounds close 5 p.m.
• Dec 18: Both houses will be open for evening hours, last admission 6 p.m. Ground will close at 7 p.m.

Learn more about holiday programming on the Preservation Society's website.