Good morning, Newport.

Rhode Island gas stations will be open on Thanksgiving to sell gasoline, lubricating oil, and emergency auto parts even though grocery and liquor stores are closed by state law.

Some on-site convenience stores may also open (with up to six employees working) to help drivers fill their tanks or grab basic supplies.

On December 12th at 7:30 p.m., Newport will host a fundraising concert at the JPT with Jim Belushi, his daughter Jami, and his all-star band (including notable guest performers) while a portion of the proceeds benefits BSF in partnership with Broadway Street Fair.

Gov. Dan McKee and First Lady Susan McKee announced Friday that Newport will get $2,000 from the state to plant flower bulbs along a new walking path at Aquidneck Park—this project will add spring and summer blooms near benches, welcome signs and city offices as part of a state beautification plan.

Newport Hospital earned an A rating from Leapfrog in its fall survey, while three other hospitals received scores of C or lower.

The survey shows local hospitals have mixed results — with Newport Hospital leading in patient safety.

Tyler Bernadyn—long a trusted Newport realtor—will serve as the 2026 President of the Newport County Board of Realtors.

He will lead a dedicated board—made up of local real estate professionals—to raise professional standards and boost community service in Newport County.

The Savannah Bananas drafted former URI pitcher Trystan Levesque in the fifth round, which gives the team a Rhode Island connection for next season—he shared a video of warming up and practicing trick pitches on social media.

The Gulls announced that their Youth Winter Clinics, now in their fifth year, will run on December 14, December 21, and December 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the University of Rhode Island's indoor baseball facility (The Barn) at 3 Keaney Rd in Kingston for boys and girls ages 8 to 12; participants pay $325 for all sessions and receive a team shirt, hat and player evaluation.

The Rhody Hoops Rundown blog reported on Rhode Island college basketball teams starting the season—Providence scored over 100 points in two games, URI is trying new players, Bryant earned a key win, and Brown is struggling with injuries while teams work on better defense and offense. Coaches and standout players are set for more tough games as the season unfolds.

Holiday Mini Sessions Photography

10:00 – 10:30 AM — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Details on pricing not specified — Capture your holiday memories with professional photography in a beautiful setting.

Big Trouble In Little China - Film Screening

8:30-10 p.m. — The JPT Film & Event Center — Tickets available — Enjoy a classic film with a cult following in a cozy cinema setting.

Hey Nineteen - A Steely Dan Tribute Experience

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Ocean Mist — Tickets required — Experience the top Steely Dan tribute band's complex musical repertoire live.

Winter Afternoon Tea

1-2 p.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Cost varies — Gather with friends over tea and indulge in delightful treats.

Thanksgiving Dinner at The Chanler

1-7 p.m. — The Chanler at Cliff Walk — Price not specified — Indulge in an elegant four-course Thanksgiving feast featuring signature dishes and seasonal flavors.

Megan Chenot Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Gooseneck Vineyards — Free entry — Experience a night of diverse musical styles with Newport's own singer-guitarist Megan Chenot.

Lighting of the Lighthouse

5-11 p.m. — Newport Harbor Island Resort — Enjoy a cozy holiday atmosphere with carolers, warm drinks, and festive treats as the historic lighthouse is illuminated.

Holiday Kickoff Party for Operation: Blue Santa

2-4 p.m. — Sakonnet Vineyard — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with free visits to Santa and Mrs. Claus while enjoying delightful wines and seasonal treats.

Holiday Card Painting

3:30-5 p.m. — Courthouse Center for the Arts — Free entry — Create beautiful, handmade holiday cards with guidance from a festive instructor.

Holiday Sip & Shop

4-7 p.m. — OceanCliff Hotel — Free entry — Enjoy a festive evening with cocktails and local shopping featuring unique designs and artisan goods.