It’s almost that time of year again. The holidays! You can’t beat all the decorations, fun, and festivities. Block Island knows how to do all three right. If you haven’t been to the island during the holidays you’re missing out. One of the best times to go is during the Block Island Holiday Stroll.
About the Stroll
This year’s Block Island Holiday Stroll (now in its 29th year) is from November 29th through December 1st. 2019 The stroll offers holiday decorations, shopping without all the Black Friday crowds, and prizes.
For the decorations – you must check out the famous Lobster Pot Tree which is exactly what it sounds like, a Christmas tree made from lots of lobster pots and decorated with lights.
When it comes to shopping there will be tons of incredible sales offered by the local retailers. Sales kick off at 10AM on Friday morning. For a full list of all the participating stores, galleries, and activities visit the Block Island Chamber of Commerce site here.
The Block Island Free Library Indoor Market will also be open on Saturday. It’s a market where you can get some local candy, fresh baked goods, cheese, artwork, crafts, and jewelry.
Finally, you can enter to win raffle prizes. Pick up an entry form at the Chamber of Commerce office which is located at the ferry landing. Entry forms are available from 10AM-5PM on Friday and Saturday or 11AM-2PM on Sunday. Then have each participating store add their stamp to your form as you stroll around. Return the forms to the Chamber before the final drawings on Sunday. Good luck!
Special Events During the Stroll
If shopping isn’t your thing, there are a few other on island activities to keep you busy during Stroll weekend. On Friday and Saturday take part in the Fundraiser for Further Afield Program (a Block Island High School 10th grade service trip) at the Yellow Kittens from 12-2PM and eat some delicious homemade soup and grilled cheese.
Or get really active at the 15 Annual Turkey Trot 5K on Saturday. The trot starts at noon and ends at Fred Benson Town Beach. Ok, so you don’t have to run the trot you can also walk. Register for the trot in advance on active.com or day of. The entry fee is $30.
In keeping with the active theme Island Fitness and Elevation Studio will also be offering classes the whole weekend, check with them for their schedules.
Travel and Accommodations
During the Stroll If you want to get to the island for the Stroll – you can get there via ferry or plane. For ferry times visit BlockIslandFerry.com. The high speed ferry will be running that weekend. For flights to Block Island call New England Airlines at (800)243-2460.
The following hotels will be open during the Stroll:
- The Inn at Spring House (401)466-5844
- The 1661 Inn (401)466-2421
- The Darius Inn (401)466-2722
- The Blue Dory Inn (401)466-5891
Finally, all these restaurants will be serving yummy food during the weekend: Bethany’s Airport Diner, Block Island Grocery, Eli’s, Kimberly’s, McAloons, The Barn at Spring House, Odd Fellows Café, Old Island Pub, Southeast Delights(food truck), Three Sisters.
Discovering Block Island
Block Island isn’t just about the summer. The island’s got a little something all year-round. For even more information on all that the Block has to offer check out our Discovering Block Island blog series.
