Artistic rendering – Event may differ
MAC's Holiday Buoy Tree
Join a unique holiday tradition by decorating and submitting a buoy to create a stunning 20-30 foot tree made from lobster traps. This community art project culminates in a festive tree lighting ceremony at Lisman Landing, complete with music and a visit from Santa.
What to Expect
Community-decorated buoy tree on a lobster trap structure.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is available at Lisman Landing Marina. Additional parking information may be available on the event's full details page.
- Pets: Pet-friendly (at the park behind the marina, as per reviews)
Other Christmas Events Near Milford
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, artists, community members
Vibe
Festive, creative, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low to medium (participation requires some effort, viewing is relaxed)
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Medium (lighting ceremony is outdoors, but viewing is possible from various points)
Special Events & Promotions
- Community art participation
- Tree lighting ceremony with Santa and music
- Opportunity to create and display public art
Location
Event Details
Duration
Event viewing is ongoing from December 7th through mid-January; the lighting ceremony is from 2pm-6pm on December 7th.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Milford Arts Council
Food & Drink
Not specified, but the location is a marina with nearby restaurants.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- When decorating your buoy, ensure all materials are securely attached and weather-resistant, as they will be displayed outdoors. Use strong glues like E6000 or Gorilla Glue and seal with a clear, water-based polyurethane.
- If you plan to pick up a blank buoy from the MAC office, call ahead to confirm availability and arrange a pickup time outside of their standard Tuesday-Friday, 12-4 pm hours.
- For the tree lighting event, arrive between 2pm and 6pm to experience the full festivities, including music, Santa's arrival at 4:45pm, and the official lighting at 5:00pm.
- Keep the central hole of the buoy open on both ends during decoration, as volunteers will be stringing them together to hang on the tree structure.
- After the event, remember to pick up your decorated buoy from the Firehouse Gallery in mid-January 2026; unretrieved buoys become property of MAC after 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key dates for participating in the Holiday Buoy Tree?
Blank buoys can be picked up until November 18th, 2025. Decorated buoys must be dropped off by November 18th, 2025. The tree lighting event is on December 7th, 2025, and the tree will be on display until mid-January 2026.
What materials are best for decorating the buoys?
Use weather-proof paints like acrylic or enamel. For adhering decorations, use strong, clear glues such as E6000, Power Tac, or Gorilla Glue, and ensure all decorations are sealed with a clear, water-based polyurethane for weather protection.
Where is the Holiday Buoy Tree located?
The tree is located at Lisman Landing Marina, 37 Helwig St, Milford, CT 06460. The lighting ceremony and viewing take place here.
Can I submit a buoy I decorated in a previous year?
Yes, you can register your existing or redecorated buoy from a prior year and deliver the finished buoy by the November 18th deadline.
What happens to the buoys after the event?
After the tree is dismantled, participants can pick up their buoys from the Firehouse Gallery in mid-January 2026. Buoys not retrieved within 30 days become property of the MAC.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.