Newport, RI was unveiled today as the final stop of the 2011-2012 AC World Series, which promises to be a dramatic finish to the first season of the new AC45 professional circuit. Designed to expose millions more people to the sport of high-performance racing, the new professional circuit was created to bring the America’s Cup experience to top international venues.
In addition to being the first American host of the high-tech AC45 wing-sailed catamarans in 2012, Newport also has the honor of seeing the first AC World Series circuit champion crowned. The highlight of each AC World Series stop is the spectacular, winner-takes-all, fleet race on final Sunday, where teams put points on the board to take the overall title, so the final race on Sunday, July 1 in Newport could be the ultimate decision maker for the AC World Series champion.
“Newport and Rhode Island have strong historical ties to the America’s Cup, dating back to 1930,” Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said. “Narragansett Bay, one of our state’s most spectacular assets, provides a perfect natural venue, and the ongoing infrastructure improvements at Fort Adams make Newport the ideal host for the final stop of the AC World Series. This exciting event will be a tremendous boost for the Rhode Island economy and continues the relationship between Newport and the America’s Cup.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: http://www.americascup.com

In July of 2012, the pageantry of the tall ships will sail into Newport Harbor once again for the Ocean State Tall Ships^® Festival.  The scenic and historic waterfront of Newport is the idyllic setting to observe the splendor of the tall ships, and families delight in the majesty of the Parade of Sail through Newport Harbor. This event will also feature exhibits, food, music and family entertainment. Children especially enjoy boarding these remarkable vessels, and the opportunity to meet international crew members provides all visitors with insight into the many unique cultures that have helped to shape the past and future of sailing.

For more information visit: www.oceanstatetallships.com

SCHEDULE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH 6:00 p.m. – Town tree lighting and visit from Santa at Updike Park, sponsored by NK Chamber of Commerce, kicks off a weekend of festivities and a season of wonder. The North Kingstown Community Youth Chorus and the Lafayette Band perform.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH

• 5:30 p.m. – Santa arrives at the Town Dock.
• 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. – Historic House Treasure Hunt and Raffle
• 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. – Ongoing live nativity at St. Paul’s Church on Main Street performed by the Youth Groups.
• 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. – Hayrides with Santa around the Village, originating in the parking lot by the Town Dock ($2 per person).
• 6:30 – 7:15 p.m. – The North Kingstown Community Chorus carols in Updike Park.
• 7:15 – 8:15 p.m. – The Lafayette Band performs their “Holiday Concert” at the First Baptist Church on Main Street’

MOST SHOPS ARE OPEN UNTIL 9:00 p.m.!!

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1

• 8:00 – 11:00 a.m. – Breakfast with Santa at the First Baptist Church on Main Street. ($10 per adult, $5 kids 12 and under).
• 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – New event this year! Historic House Treasure Hunt and Raffle
• 11:15 a.m. – New to Festival of Lights this year is an ELF PARADE! Dress up as one of Santa’s helpers and take a chance at winning fabulous prizes…1st prize for BEST ELF is $75.00, 2nd is $50.00 and 3rd is $25.00. All elves should be at The Wickford Collection on Saturday 12/3 by 11:15 for judging and will parade through town to greet Santa. This contest is open to all ages but minor elves should be accompanied by an adult. This event is sponsored by The Wickford Collection and the YMCA.
• 12:30 p.m. – Santa arrives at the Town Dock
• 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Hayrides with Santa around the village originating in the parking lot by the Town Dock. ($2 per person).
• 7:00 p.m. – North Kingstown Community Chorus and Youth Chorus Winter Concert at NKHS.

MOST SHOPS ARE OPEN UNTIL 9:00 p.m.!!

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2

• 12:30 p.m. – Santa arrives at the Town Dock.
• 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Historic House Treasure Hunt and Raffle
• 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Hayrides with Santa around the village.
• 3:00 p.m. – North Kingstown Community Chorus and Youth Chorus “Winter Concert” at N.K.H.S.

For more information visit: www.smithscastle.org

Experience the days of the 18th century corn husking festivals when the Updike family of Smith’s Castle presided over one of the largest of the Narragansett Plantations. Enjoy live entertainment and savor homemade seasonal treats. (Apple Crisp)

For more info visit: www.smithscastle.org

For more information visit: http://www.riairshow.org

Savor Smith’s Castle’s celebrated strawberry shortcake and pay homage to the humble wild strawberry—a favorite of the early colonists and the native Narragansett. Enjoy a day filled with fun family entertainment.

For more information visit: www.smithscastle.org