Sparkling Lights at The Breakers has quickly become one of Newport’s most anticipated winter traditions. Now in its 6th season, the outdoor display continues to grow in both scale and ambition. For 2025, the Preservation Society of Newport County has expanded the experience once again. An additional 25,000 lights and several new visual elements make this year’s display the most elaborate version to date.
A Larger And Brighter Walk Through The Breakers Grounds
Sparkling Lights transforms the 13 acre grounds of The Breakers into a fully illuminated winter landscape. Visitors follow a nearly half mile outdoor walking route through the historic property as music plays and light installations surround the path.
The route winds across the grounds, revealing illuminated trees, themed displays, and layered lighting effects designed to highlight the mansion’s exterior and landscape features. The experience is designed to be immersive rather than a quick walkthrough.
What Is New For 2025
Several new elements debut this season. The South Terrace has been redesigned with a new lighting scheme, including an illuminated pergola and a display intended to evoke sparkling water features. A new illuminated selfie station has also been introduced. Styled as a gilded frame, it is large enough for families and groups and is positioned specifically for photo opportunities. The popular Sparkling Lights train display returns on the back lawn for another season. It remains one of the most photographed features of the event.
Classic Highlights That Return Each Year
Several signature features continue to anchor the experience. A long tunnel of lights creates one of the most visually striking sections of the walk. Illuminated snowmen and reindeer appear throughout the route, adding depth and movement to the displays. The Children’s Cottage is outlined in lights and remains a favorite stop along the path. Visitors can look through the windows to see a seasonal scene inside.
Interior Access Is Included With Your Ticket
Sparkling Lights tickets include access to the interior of The Breakers during the same visit. Guests may tour the mansion before or after completing the outdoor light walk. Inside, all 70 rooms are decorated for the holidays. Highlights include the Great Hall, where a 15 foot Christmas tree constructed from 150 live poinsettia plants stands beneath the soaring ceiling. Many visitors choose to tour the interior first while there is still daylight, then experience the outdoor displays once darkness falls.
Dates, Times, And Entry Details For 2025
Sparkling Lights operates on select evenings from November 21 through December 28, 2025. From early December forward, the event typically runs Thursday through Sunday, with additional dates during the week of Christmas. Timed entry tickets are required. Entry times are scheduled every 30 minutes beginning at 4:00 PM, with the final scheduled entry at 6:00 PM. Guests have a 30 minute grace window to arrive after their scheduled time. The house and grounds remain open until 8:00 PM, allowing ample time to experience both the outdoor display and the decorated interior.
There is no re entry. Tickets are scanned and canceled upon entry, so guests should plan accordingly.
Ticket Prices For Sparkling Lights
For the 2025 season, ticket prices are as follows.
Adult non member tickets are $45. Youth tickets for ages 6 to 17 are $14. Children younger than 6 are admitted free.
Planning a winter trip to Newport? Staying downtown puts you close to The Breakers, harbor lights, and seasonal dining. Check hotel availability here.
Preservation Society members receive discounted pricing, with adult member tickets priced at $30. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Food, Drinks, And Comfort Stops
Fire pits are placed along the route to provide warming stops throughout the walk. The back terrace and The Breakers Welcome Center offer holiday treats and beverages for purchase, including adult options. Offerings may vary by evening.
Parking And What To Wear
Parking is free for Sparkling Lights guests. Primary parking is available in the lot across from the main entrance gates on Ochre Point Avenue, with additional nearby options used on busy nights. Guests should dress warmly in layers and wear comfortable shoes suitable for outdoor walking. The route is mostly flat but includes outdoor paths that may be uneven in winter conditions.
Why Advance Tickets Matter
Advance purchase is strongly recommended. Popular December dates frequently sell out, especially on weekends. Sparkling Lights has become one of Newport’s signature winter experiences, and demand continues to grow each season.
