SURFING Break out your longboard and warmest wetsuit and brave the waves at Narragansett Town Beach , Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly and First Beach in Newport . For information on state beaches , go to visitrhodeisland . com .
Lumina Festival
Experience this must-visit winter experience in downtown Providence as the city transforms into a dazzling , illuminated winter wonderland during the Lumina Festival . From Feb . 1 – 17 , the city will come alive with stunning visual displays , interactive installations and community-driven art that lights up the season . Providence , downtownparks . org
The moon bear at Roger Williams Park Zoo .
Roger Williams Park Zoo
While some Roger Williams Park Zoo residents might be deep in hibernation ( or cozied up out of view ) at this point in the year , others , like the snow leopards , moon bear and red wolves , are ready to shine . And what ’ s cuter than watching red pandas frolic in the snow ? Plus , the grounds are not nearly as crowded during the winter months . Best of all ? The zoo offers half-price admission during winter hours — Thursdays through Mondays , 10 a . m . to 4 p . m . — through Feb . 28 . Providence , rwpzoo . org
5 Things to Do at the Newport Winter Festival
The annual event takes place Feb . 14 – 23 in the City By the Sea .
CHILI COOKOFF : Spice up the season with the festival ’ s annual chili cookoff full of innovative twists to get your taste buds sizzling . Enjoy unique variations of the classic meal served by restaurants and caterers competing to win . TROPICAL DRINK COMPETITION : Rather be on the beach ? Not a problem at the Gas Lamp Grille , where you can sip on the summery flavors of the tropical drinks competing for best cocktail . Sample summer fun in a cup and help decide which drink best transports you from the cold into your beach chair . RAINFOREST REPTILE SHOW : Get up close to fascinating creatures during this reptile show . Kids will learn about the natural behaviors and habitats of alligators , snakes , turtles , lizards and more . PRINCESS PARTY : Join your favorite Disney princesses at OceanCliff for an enchanting day of storytelling , songs and dancing . Treats will be provided to royal subjects and guests are encouraged to wear princess attire . ICE CARVING DEMONSTRA- TION : Watch ice sculptors use their best chisels , chain saws and blow dryers to create breathtaking sculptures out of ice . newportwinterfestival . com
SURFING Break out your longboard and warmest wetsuit and brave the waves at Narragansett Town Beach , Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly and First Beach in Newport . For information on state beaches , go to visitrhodeisland . com .
PHOTOGRAPHY ( CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT ): NORMAN BIRD SANCTUARY ; YAWGOO VALLEY ; DOWNTOWN PROVIDENCE PARK NETWORK ; DISCOVER NEWPORT ; DISCOVER NEWPORT / DAVID HANSEN ; ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO . SNOW BORDER , ALL PAGES : GETTY IMAGES .
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