Tree lightings, holiday light displays, festivals, and more! The holiday season is upon us and there’s so much to see. Whether you’re a kid or an adult, almost everyone gets that sparkling look in their eyes around this time of year. What better way to amplify that joy than with some season-specific wonder and awe? Now that you’ve finished decorating, check out our guide to your local holiday events and festivals in Connecticut.
New Haven, Connecticut
The Long Island Sound comes alive this season, with glowing lights and snow giving us child-like wonder. With just a short trip from your home at Aspen Glen, feast all your senses upon these incredible events.
Festival of Silver Lights at Hubbard Park
Every night until January 2, awaken your senses at the Festival of Lights at Hubbard Park. Throw on your coat, hat, scarf, and mittens, grab some hot cocoa, and visit this Meriden, CT tradition, now in its 34th year. Admission is free, so you can visit as many times as you’d like this season.
Fantasy of Lights at Lighthouse Point Park
Would you rather stay inside your warm car while looking at incredible sights? No problem! Fantasy of Lights at Lighthouse Point Park runs through December 31, with hundreds of thousands of lights on display for a small fee per car. Drive through this wonderland and watch the lights move across the trees, plants, and skies. Even better, all ticket proceeds will benefit Goodwill of Southern New England.
Pantochino Christmas Carol
This incredible story of generosity and compassion will pull at your heartstrings while making you laugh uncontrollably. Pantochino Productions Christmas Carol is told in a fun, rollicking, musical theater style and runs through December 18. Get your tickets today!
Punk Rock Holiday Flea Market
Find unique gifts for everyone at the Punk Rock Holiday Flea Market on December 10 from 11am until 6pm. In the College Street Music Hall in New Haven, you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts from local artists and creators. Buy records, vintage clothing, oddities, original artwork, and more at this incredible market.
Hartford, Connecticut
Our state capitol is no Grinch this holiday season. Just a short drive from Aspen Woods, Aspen Highlands, Aspen Green and Woodland Green in Bloomfield, there’s something for everyone: holiday light displays, festivals, holiday-themed improv shows, and cookie decorating for kids.
Glow Hartford
From now until January 1, Glow Hartford comes alive with its indoor Holiday Light Festival and Market. Walk through the lights, stop by and listen to some live entertainment, enjoy the activities, and feast on some seasonal treats. Tickets vary in price by age.
An Improvised Christmas Carol
SeaTea Improvisational Theater puts a clever spin on the Christmas Carol story. They start the show with clever questions and ideas to create a brand-new-every-time take on this holiday classic. These events are for all ages, as they offer family-friendly matinees. Buy your tickets today to ensure your seats. The show runs until December 18.
Merry & Bright Kids Holiday Event
On December 9, from 5-7pm, you can bring your kids over to 1st Love Events in Newington, CT for Merry & Bright, a fun night of holiday shenanigans. Kids can play in the bounce house or the soft play area before they decorate Christmas cookies. Finish out the evening with a photo with the Big Man himself, Santa Claus!
Winterfest Tunnel of Lights
Visit the Connecticut Trolley Museum for Winterfest Tunnel of Lights this season. Now in its 44th year, this incredible festival lets you hop on a closed trolley car for a trip through the lights display while singing Christmas carols with your trolley operator. Once you’ve completed your trip, check out the inside Winter Wonderland displays. Running now through December 30!