Hallmark Christmas Movies Set in Rhode Island and How to Watch

Every December, Hallmark transforms living rooms across America into cozy, snow-dusted wonderlands. Romance, nostalgia, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic fill the air.

This year, the network’s Countdown to Christmas lineup is once again overflowing with festive cheer. For Rhode Islanders, though, there’s something extra special under the tree.

Two Hallmark holiday films set in the Ocean State are taking center stage: the classic A Season for Miracles from 1999 and the brand-new A Newport Christmas. These movies showcase Rhode Island’s charm and capture the heart and warmth that make Hallmark’s holiday offerings such a beloved tradition.

Rhode Island Steps Into the Spotlight

Hallmark’s fictional New England towns are usually tucked somewhere in Vermont or Massachusetts. This year, Rhode Island gets a big moment.

The state’s coastal beauty, historic architecture, and small-town charm are a perfect backdrop for stories that mix nostalgia with a touch of Christmas magic. Whether it’s the cobblestone streets of Newport or the fictional town of Bethlehem, these films remind us that the holiday spirit thrives in every corner of New England.

Let’s unwrap the details of these two Rhode Island-set Hallmark gems. From their heartfelt plots to where you can stream or tune in, here’s what you need to know for your holiday viewing.

A Newport Christmas: Time Travel, True Love, and Twinkling Lights

Premiering in 2025, A Newport Christmas is the latest addition to Hallmark’s growing library of New England holiday tales. It’s already winning hearts, with an IMDb rating of 7.1.

This film offers a unique blend of historical romance and time-travel fantasy. The story centers on Ella, a charitable and spirited Newport socialite living in 1905.

She dreams of using her wealth to help those less fortunate, but her father’s plans for her to marry a stranger threaten to derail everything. In a moment of longing and rebellion, Ella takes a nighttime sail beneath a comet-streaked sky and makes a wish for a different life.

When she awakens, she’s in the year 2025—a world of smartphones, electric cars, and modern-day Newport bustle. There, she meets Nick, a sailor and local historian who helps her navigate this strange new era.

As they grow closer, Ella begins to question whether she really wants to return to her own time. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their shared love for Newport’s maritime legacy gives the story both emotional depth and local authenticity.

But there’s a twist worthy of any Hallmark classic. The longer Ella stays in the present, the more her past—and the legacy she built in 1905—starts to fade.

Her foundation, her family’s history, even the course of Newport’s future are at risk of being erased. Together, she and Nick must find a way to send her back through time before the clock runs out, even if it means saying goodbye forever.

Why A Newport Christmas Stands Out

This isn’t just another cozy holiday romance—it’s a love letter to Newport. The film showcases the city’s iconic mansions, harbor views, and historic streets, all dressed in twinkling Christmas lights.

The contrast between 1905’s Gilded Age opulence and the modern-day coastal charm gives the movie a rich visual texture. It’s a story about second chances and timeless love, but also about preserving history and honoring the past while embracing the present.

You can catch A Newport Christmas on Prime Video with add-on or Hallmark+. It’ll air on The Hallmark Channel on December 14 at 8 a.m. and again on December 23 at 2 p.m.—perfect for a cozy afternoon with cocoa and blankets.

A Season for Miracles: The Classic That Started It All

Before A Newport Christmas brought Rhode Island back into the Hallmark spotlight, the 1999 Hallmark Hall of Fame film A Season for Miracles introduced audiences to the fictional town of Bethlehem, Rhode Island. With an IMDb rating of 7.6, this heartwarming story has stood the test of time.

The film follows a homeless family struggling to stay together during the holidays. When tragedy and hardship threaten to tear them apart, they find themselves in Bethlehem—a place where Christmas miracles seem to happen when least expected.

With the help of a mysterious angel and the kindness of strangers, the family discovers hope, faith, and the true meaning of the season.

A Stellar Cast and Timeless Message

A Season for Miracles features an all-star cast: Patty Duke, Laura Dern, Carla Gugino, Lynn Redgrave, and Kathy Baker. Their performances bring emotional weight to a story that balances realism with the magical optimism that defines Hallmark’s best work.

The film’s Rhode Island setting gives it a sense of intimacy and authenticity, with snow-covered streets and small-town warmth that feel both cinematic and deeply personal.

Fans can watch A Season for Miracles on Prime Video with add-on or Hallmark+. It will also air on The Hallmark Channel on December 21 at 10 p.m. and again on December 25 at 10 a.m.—a perfect choice for Christmas morning viewing.

Why Rhode Island Is the Perfect Hallmark Setting

Rhode Island may be small, but it’s packed with cinematic potential. From Newport’s gilded mansions to the quaint coastal villages that dot its shoreline, the state offers a blend of elegance and coziness that fits Hallmark’s aesthetic like a glove.

The state’s rich history, maritime heritage, and tight-knit communities make it an ideal canvas for stories about love, redemption, and holiday magic. For viewers, it’s a chance to see a part of New England that’s often overlooked in favor of its northern neighbors—and for Rhode Islanders, it’s a proud moment of representation on the holiday movie map.

How to Make the Most of Your Rhode Island Holiday Movie Marathon

To fully embrace the spirit of these Rhode Island-set Hallmark films, why not turn your viewing into a festive event? Here are a few ideas to make your movie night extra special:

• Set the scene: String up twinkling lights, light a few candles, and brew a pot of hot cocoa.
• Embrace local flavor: Enjoy classic New England treats—clam chowder, cranberry scones, or even a slice of coffee milk pie.
• Make it a double feature: Watch A Season for Miracles first for a dose of nostalgia, then follow it with A Newport Christmas to see how Hallmark’s Rhode Island storytelling has evolved.
• Share the magic: Invite friends or family for a cozy night in and make it a new holiday tradition.

Final Thoughts: Rhode Island’s Hallmark Moment

Hallmark’s choice to spotlight Rhode Island this holiday season feels like more than just another programming move. It’s a nod to the state’s unique charm, a wink to its history, and honestly, a little love letter to its sense of community.

*A Newport Christmas* shakes up the usual holiday romance vibe. There’s something about it that feels new, even if you’ve seen a hundred Hallmark movies before.

*A Season for Miracles* leans into what Hallmark does best—stories that wrap you in comfort and hope. It’s the kind of movie that makes you want to believe in small miracles again.

Maybe you grew up in Rhode Island, or maybe you just love a good holiday flick. Either way, these movies offer a cozy escape into a world where love wins, miracles sneak up on you, and every snowflake seems to mean something special.

So, why not grab a blanket, pour a mug of something warm, and let Rhode Island’s Christmas magic take over your screen for a while? Sometimes, that’s all you need to feel a little lighter this season.