Another holiday season is here

From the editor ~ September/October 2025

Dear readers,

As I write this, the sky is a mercurial grey, and it almost looks like it could snow. It’s not quite cold enough, yet. But it’s a sign, or a reminder, or perhaps a gentle nudge of what’s ahead, soon enough. Which means holiday season, with all the gatherings — and food! — that abound this time of year, is around the corner.

In these pages, we highlight several seasonal concerts that have become beloved traditions. We also ask community members to share their favorite holiday “non-negotiable” dish, and the answers span cultures and countries of origin, from Latin America to the Mediterranean, and holiday tables from Thanksgiving to Chanukah and Christmas. My non-negotiable? Pecan pie on Thanksgiving. (And to my mother, when she reads this: yes, I will help make the pies this year!)

We also delve into the spirit of gift-giving and highlight seven local nonprofits and museums and the best gift each received this year, which range from a purple bedazzled Nike tennis dress to an extensive photo collection of Aquidneck Island’s “Sacred Spaces.” And there is, of course, our annual gift guide, full of inspiration from local shops for everyone on your list.

Last but certainly not least, we have a feature on the Goosefields Windphone in Portsmouth — a phonebooth-turned-sanctuary where anyone grieving a loved one can go for a moment’s peace and to send a message, which is then carried off on the wind, from one plane to the next.

An office update: In early October, we bid farewell to Brennan Cluff, who had been with Newport Life since our re-launch in summer 2022. I think I speak for everyone when I say we miss her boundless energy and undeniable presence but wish her all the best on her new adventure! We’ve since welcomed two new faces to the office, both recent graduates of Salve Regina University: Caitlyn Bailey and Alex Nicholson, who are helping with a mix of marketing, editorial, and events. We’re excited to have them join the team.

In other news: Be sure to head to Newport Craft on Dec. 10 for our Holiday Market, taking place from 4 to 8 p.m. (Fingers crossed we’ll have better weather this year!). We’ll be accepting donation items for the Potter League for Animals. And make sure to cast your Best of Newport County votes by Dec. 1. The winners will be announced in our January/February issue.

I, along with the entire Newport Life team, wish you all a merry and bright holiday season!

Until January.

Helena

Managing Editor

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