Winter Wonder at the Bristol Christmas Festival

The holiday season in Rhode Island has its own kind of magic, and Bristol’s waterfront is set to shine especially bright this year. The 6th Annual Bristol Christmas Festival is returning to Unity Park on December 6–7, 2025, bringing two full days of festive fun, community spirit, and small-town charm to kick off the season. Bundle up, bring your friends and family, and get ready to step into a classic New England holiday scene right by the water.

• December 6: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• December 7: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  Location: Unity Park Business Center, 500 Wood Street, Bristol, RI 02809

From morning through late afternoon, Unity Park transforms into a lively winter village filled with lights, music, and the happy buzz of neighbors catching up. The outdoor holiday market is a highlight, featuring local vendors and artisans with handmade gifts, décor, and treats. It is the perfect place to shop small, support local businesses, and find unique presents you will not see in big-box stores—from handcrafted ornaments and candles to baked goods and specialty foods.

Families will find plenty to do beyond shopping. Throughout the park, winter-themed activities and games give kids and adults a chance to play, laugh, and stay active in the crisp December air. Photo ops are everywhere, from twinkling decorations to cozy corners by the trees, making it an ideal backdrop for holiday cards and social posts. It is the kind of event where you can arrive for a quick visit and end up staying for hours.

No holiday festival is complete without great food and music, and Bristol delivers on both. Food trucks and seasonal stands will be serving up hot cocoa, cookies, and other winter favorites to keep everyone warm and cheerful. Live music and performances bring classic holiday songs and local talent to the stage, creating that feel-good soundtrack that instantly puts you in a festive mood.

Of course, one of the most magical moments of the weekend is the chance to meet Santa. Families can capture photos with Santa and create memories the kids will talk about all season long. As evening approaches, the community tree lighting becomes a centerpiece of the festival—a shared moment where the park glows, and the crowd comes together to celebrate the official start of the holiday season in Bristol.

The festival also includes charity raffles and giveaways, adding a meaningful layer of giving back. Attendees can participate, support local causes, and maybe even leave with a special prize. It is a reminder that the heart of the season is generosity and community, not just shopping and schedules.

For Edge Realty clients and friends, events like the Bristol Christmas Festival are a perfect example of what makes this area such a special place to call home. Beyond beautiful houses and coastal views, there are traditions, gatherings, and small-town celebrations that bring people together year after year. Whether you already live nearby or are just getting to know the East Bay, this festival offers a real glimpse into the lifestyle, warmth, and community pride that define Bristol.

So mark your calendar for December 6–7 and head to Unity Park for lights, music, markets, and memories. The Bristol Christmas Festival is more than just an event—it is a holiday tradition and a reminder of why “home for the holidays” feels so good here in Rhode Island.