Wentworth's annual Illumination makes a festive occasion of lighting up the grand Victorian hotel, symbolizing the beginning of the holiday season in New Castle. This complimentary, family-friendly event, will be held on December 5, 2017 and will welcome strolling carolers, a horse-drawn carriage with Santa, the Portsmouth High School Marching Band Ensemble, costumed members of the Great Bay Ballet "An 1836 Portsmouth Nutcracker" cast, and complimentary holiday refreshments. We will also have crafts and games available for children before the big unveiling of our giant gingerbread house!
As an extra gift of the season, the hotel partners with the New Castle Fire Department to collect toys for disadvantaged children on the Seacoast. Toys can be dropped at the Fire Truck on the night of the Illumination.
During the month of December, members of the community and guests are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped stuffed bears to place under the lobby Christmas tree, where they will be collected and distributed by the New Castle Fire Department.