With shops open late, a window decorating contest, a live nativity scene, a cappella singing, Morris dancers, and an explosion of white lights adorning the waterfront seaport of Wickford, this Rhode Island village does its part to usher in Christmas for adults. But the kids come for Santa, who shows up neither by air nor land, but water. ‘‘Santa arrives on a boat surrounded by kayaks and a kayak parade,’’ said Karla Driscoll, executive director of the North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce. ‘‘It’s a different event. [It’s] not going to the mall.’’ Other activities include a tree lighting, hayrides, music, and breakfast with Santa.

Rhode Island Festival of Lights, Wickford, R.I., 401-295-5566, wickfordvillage.org, northkingstown.com. Nov. 29-Dec. 2.