NEWPORT, R.I. (WLNE) — The end of the Thanksgiving holiday means the start of the Christmas season in southern New England. There’s a host of holiday lightings that Rhode Island residents can check out on Black Friday. Newport is “sailing into the most wonderful time of the year” with their Annual Newport Illuminated Boat Parade. The display is set to feature “nautical holiday spirit” from many points on the Newport waterfront. The event is set to start at 6 p.m. Roger Williams Park Zoo is set to celebrate the start of the Christmas Season with their Holiday Lights Spectacular, the lighting will last until the January 4. The Preserve Sporting Club will be hosting their annual tree lighting, with a 35 foot Norway spruce. The lights will be turned on a t 5 p.m., and the event will feature hot chocolate, holiday treats, and fireworks. The Warren Holiday Festival will welcome Santa as he arrives on a fire truck at the Firemen’s Museum. While waiting for the tree lighting, the festive event will feature refreshments, goodies, and music starting at 7 p.m. Categories: News