- Attendees can enjoy chili, mac & cheese, tropical drinks, and hot drinks from local restaurants.
- Many of the events require tickets, which can be purchased in advance or at the door.
- The festival runs from Feb. 14 to Feb. 23.
What’s a festival without food?
As the 2025 Newport Winter Festival kicks off food and drink competitions will be among the highlights to give guests a taste of the best area restaurants have to offer.
From hearty chili to gooey mac & cheese and hot drinks to tiki favorites, there’s going to be something for everyone.
Not to mention the annual Burger Bender will have restaurants across Newport and Bristol counties serving up hot patties of deliciousness.
Work up an appetite or a thirst and get ready to find the area’s best.
Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.
28th Annual Chili Cook-Off
Saturday, Feb. 15
Newport Marriott, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Winter heats up as area restaurants and caterers compete to see who has the best chili in town. Bring your appetite, sharpen your taste buds, and join in the fun as guests choose their favorite chili. From classic recipes to unique twists, there will be a chili to satisfy every craving. So mark your calendars and bring your appetite for a day filled with flavor, fun and friendly competition.
In 2024, the Newport Fire Department took home first-place honors, followed by Wharf Fishhouse & Tiki Bar in second place and The Chili Masters, in third.
Tickets $12 in advance/at the door with a bracelet and $15 at the door without a bracelet.
Children 6-10 are $4 in advance with a bracelet/$6 at the door without a bracelet
Children under 5 are free
Tropical Drink Competition
Sunday, Feb. 16
Gas Lamp Grille, 9 p.m.
Come and compete for the best tropical drink or just enjoy free sampling of each drink. Contestants will need to supply glassware and liquor. No cover but guests must be 21+ to attend.
Fish House Tiki Drink Competition
Wednesday, Feb. 19
The Wharf Fish House, Upstairs Tiki Bar, 7 p.m.
Free event to attend with a $250 Gift Card to Tiki House for the winner.
Annual Best Hot Drink Contest
Thursday, Feb. 20
The Red Parrot Restaurant, 8 p.m.
The competition heats up as judges determine the Best Hot Drink in Newport. Local bars and restaurants are invited to compete for the Festival Plaque and guests 21+ will get to sample the delightful concoctions as well as enjoy drink specials. Admission and samples are free.
Last winners were: First Place – Diego’s Newport “There’s always money in the Banana Stand”; Second Place – Gas Lamp “Strawberries and Cream”; Third Place – Red Parrot “Sugar & Spice, She ain’t so Nice”
Mac & Cheese Smackdown
Saturday, Feb. 22
Newport Marriott: 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
The Mac is Back! – The Cheesiest Event Rhode Island Has Ever Seen … The Mac and Cheese Smackdown! Bite into the ultimate mac and cheese showdown at the Newport Marriott Hotel. Get ready to indulge in a cheesy extravaganza like no other. Whether you’re a mac and cheese connoisseur or just a fan of this comfort food classic, this event is a must-attend.
Sample a variety of mouthwatering mac and cheese creations prepared by talented local chefs. From traditional recipes to innovative twists, you’ll have the chance to savor an array of cheesy delights then cast your vote for the best mac and cheese dish and help decide the winner.
Last year Scratch Kitchen & Catering in first place, Marco’s Cafe placed second and the Skiff Bar at The Marriott in third.
Tickets: $18 in advance/with a bracelet or $20 at the door without a bracelet
Kids Tickets Ages 4-9: $9 in advance/ $11 at the door without bracelet (Under 4 is Free)
Dumpling Eating Contest
Sunday, Feb. 23
Yagi Noodles, noon- 2 p.m.
Enjoy a feast of fun at Yagi Noodles’ 3rd Annual Dumpling Eating Contest. Test your appetite and speed as you compete for delicious prizes.
Entry Fee: $20 per person. Deadline to enter is Thursday, Feb. 20 or when the first 25 contestants are signed up. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annual-dumpling-eating-contest-tickets-1226772091349?aff=oddtdtcreator
发表回复