Special Events and Tours
Networking events at the Hawks Nest Executive Retreat are designed to bring our community together in fun, meaningful, and memorable ways. These gatherings offer the perfect opportunity to meet fellow agents, exchange fresh ideas, build new partnerships, and strengthen relationships that can support your agency long after the Retreat ends. Whether you’re swapping stories over a meal, teaming up for a friendly competition, or connecting during one of our evening socials, each event is crafted to spark conversation, encourage collaboration, and expand your professional network. Attending these events isn’t just enjoyable, it’s one of the most valuable parts of the Retreats experience.
Group Tours
Wednesday, October 7 | 1:15pm - 4:30pm
Sponsored by Cara
Take advantage of a relaxing afternoon to connect with fellow attendees while exploring some of Newport’s most popular attractions. Guests are invited to choose one of three optional group experiences during the registration process: a tour of the Sailing Museum, seaweed workshop or a Newport Vineyard Tour and Tasting. Each experience offers a unique opportunity to network, unwind, and enjoy the rich history, culture, and charm of the Newport area.
- Included in your registration fee
- Who can attend: registered attendees, sponsors and registered spouse/guests
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Sailing Museum Tour Located on Newport’s historic Thames Street waterfront, The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame is housed in a beautifully restored armory and brings sailing’s past and present to life through immersive, interactive exhibits celebrating the sport’s global impact. Visiting the museum is engaging and approachable for both sailors and non-sailors, combining hands-on technology, inspiring stories, and harbor views in a modern, relaxed setting that is easy to explore. You will receive wristbands to interact with the exhibits and enjoy interactive challenges. After the tour, you will partake in a knot tying workshop! You will leave with a new appreciation of sailing and Newport’s role as the Sailing Capital of the World! |
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Seaweed Pressing Workshop (on-site: Courtyard) Get in touch with your creativity and the outdoors in this seaweed pressing workshop! Discover the roots of this art form from the Victorian era, when seaweed was pressed and kept in scrapbooks as a souvenir, as well as some fun facts about the local coastal environment the seaweed comes from. Combining art and science, guests will go through the steps of pressing the seaweed with the artist’s guidance, creating a work of art to remember their trip and the beauty of Rhode Island. |
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Newport Vineyard Tour and Tasting You will arrive at Newport Vineyards, a true testament of elegance and fine food and beverages here on Aquidneck Island. Indulge in private access to the vineyard grounds, guided tours and tastings of all that the vineyard has to offer! You will engage with several experiences such as a wine tasting & tour, and exploration of the beautiful grounds, and lawn games. |
Special Events
- Included in your registration fee
- Who can attend: registered attendees, sponsors and registered spouse/guests
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Welcome Reception Tuesday, October 6 | 5:00pm - 6:30pm We’ll kick off Hawks Nest with a relaxed and lively welcome reception designed to get everyone connected and ready for a great few days together! And we’re adding a few special touches to make the evening extra memorable:
Come ready to relax, connect, and kick off Hawks Nest in true Newport style! Attire: Business casual |
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Wednesday, October 7 | Cocktail Hour (Courtyard) 6:00pm - 7:00pm | Dinner (Kay Chape) 7:00pm -9:00pm Newport Nights: A Night in the Guilded Ages Step back in time and join us for an unforgettable evening inspired by the glamour and intrigue of the Roaring Twenties. As a nod to Newport’s storied Gilded Age history, our Retreat Dinner will feature a Great Gatsby–themed celebration filled with elegance, lively conversation, and a touch of Prohibition-era charm. Come dressed to impress in your finest 1920s-inspired attire and enjoy an evening of networking, entertainment, and memories worthy of Gatsby himself. Whether you're channeling a sophisticated socialite or a dapper gentleman, this is your chance to embrace the spirit of one of Newport’s most iconic eras. Attire: Roaring 20's encouraged |
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Wednesday, October 7 | 9:00pm - 10:30pm | Sponsored by Sembley Speakeasy: No password. No Entry. No Exceptions The evening doesn't end when dinner is over! After our Roaring Twenties-themed Retreat Dinner, you're invited to continue the celebration at our exclusive HUG Speakeasy. Step behind the hidden door and enjoy handcrafted Espresso Martinis, classic Old Fashions, and great conversation with fellow attendees in a relaxed atmosphere. But there's one catch—you'll need to know the secret password to gain entry! Be sure to stop by Sembley's table for the password. It's the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable night of networking, laughter, and a little Prohibition-era fun. |
Optional Tours
- Additional Fee
- Who can attend: registered attendees, sponsors and registered spouse/guests
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Tuesday, October 6 | 8:45am - 11:15am City and Ocean Drive Trolly Tour This scenic drive, also known as Ten Mile Drive encompasses most of the southern coastline of Aquidneck Island. An area that was once used as farmland is now one of the most popular Newport attractions. Once you are out there, it is very easy to see why. This narrated trolley tour is full of stories about the Gilded Age, prohibition smugglers, and the Kennedys. After passing by the yacht clubs, and the famous Fort Adams State Park you will head down Bellevue Avenue to see all the beautiful mansions and through the city center to get the real feel of the City by the Sea. Cost: $100/per person Attire: Casual / comfortable shoes |
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Friday, October 9 | 9:00am - 3:30pm (time is subject to change) Coastal Queen Cruise to Wickford Village Step aboard the Coastal Queen for a scenic cruise through the beautiful waters of Newport, Rhode Island. As you sail along the coastline, you'll enjoy stunning views of Newport's iconic lighthouses, magnificent Gilded Age mansions, and picturesque harbor while learning about the rich history and maritime heritage that make this destination so unique. Following the cruise, we'll make our way to the charming seaside village of Wickford, where you'll have time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, browse the unique boutiques and specialty shops, and soak in the New England coastal charm. With delicious food, quaint streets, waterfront views, and plenty of photo-worthy moments, this excursion is the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable memories. Cost: $175 Attire: Casual / comfortable shoes |