East Haven Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Discover unique holiday treasures at the BACA Gallery during Branford's annual Shop, Sip & Stroll event. They will be open late, offering a festive atmosphere perfect for finding that special gift. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and a special treat to take home.

Discover a treasure trove of unique holiday gifts at BACA's Artful Holiday Market. Browse an impressive selection of arts, crafts, jewelry, photography, wood, textiles, and leather goods, all created by talented local artisans. This festive event offers the perfect opportunity to find original presents while supporting local creators. Don't miss...

Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at the Guilford Art Center's Holiday Expo 2025. This highly anticipated event showcases the work of talented Connecticut and New England artists, offering a diverse selection of ceramics, jewelry, textiles, woodworking, and more. Shoppers will find the perfect holiday-themed gifts, from festive ornaments to artisanal home...

Experience the magic of the 23rd Annual Downtown Lamplight Stroll, a cherished holiday tradition in Milford. Hundreds of families gather to explore participating businesses, collecting stamps in their stroll passports while enjoying sweet treats and warm beverages. Discover unique gifts from over 60 vendors on the green, be serenaded by...

Experience the magic of the Wallingford Holiday Stroll on December 5th! Local merchants along Center Street and surrounding areas will offer special discounts to kickstart your Christmas shopping. Enjoy festive treats, warm drinks, and a chance to meet Santa. Don't miss the cozy bonfire, a dazzling Christmas tree, and exciting...

Discover a festive holiday craft festival in Shelton, Connecticut, featuring a curated selection of artisanal goods. Browse unique handmade items perfect for Christmas gifts and enjoy a day of festive shopping. This event is a prime opportunity to find one-of-a-kind treasures from talented local creators.

Discover unique handmade treasures and festive holiday spirit at St. Michael's Christmas Artisan Bazaar. This charming event, held indoors at the Church Hall, offers a delightful array of crafts and Christmas-themed items from local artisans. It's the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts and soak in the holiday atmosphere.

Discover a festive holiday tradition at the Franciscan Christmas Fair, offering a delightful array of handmade crafts, unique gifts, and delicious homemade treats. Browse artisanal goods, decorative greens, and Holy Land carvings, and enjoy a heartwarming Living Crèche presentation. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and support vital community services with...

Gallery 53 transforms into a festive holiday destination for its annual Holiday Artisan Fair. From November 18 to December 23, visitors can explore a curated selection of hundreds of locally handcrafted gifts, perfect for every taste and budget. Enjoy extended hours, including special Thursday evenings with wine and cheese, and...

Discover unique holiday treasures at the Wadsworth Mansion Holiday Bazaar. Browse handmade gifts from over 30 artisan vendors, featuring selections from the Open Air Market. Enjoy delicious food and warm beverages from David Alan Catering while you shop for the perfect presents. A festive atmosphere awaits!

Experience the magic of the 5th Annual Holiday Stroll in Westport, CT, co-sponsored with Dan Woog's '06880'. This festive event on December 6, 2025, transforms downtown Westport into a winter wonderland. Discover unique finds at the Holiday Winter Market, enjoy children's activities like face painting and Santa photos, and be...

Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at the Redding Artisan Holiday Fair. This festive event showcases a curated selection of art and crafts from talented local artisans, offering the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. Immerse yourself in a cheerful atmosphere and support local creators.

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Fantasy of Lights, a spectacular drive-through light display at Lighthouse Point Park. This cherished annual tradition transforms the park into a winter wonderland with dazzling illuminations and festive music, perfect for all ages. Proceeds from ticket sales support Goodwill of Southern New...

Experience the enchantment of the season at Fairview Tree Farm's 'Night of Lights' Merry Christmas Hayride. This beloved annual event offers a magical 30-minute tractor-pulled journey through dazzling light displays and festive holiday scenes. Meet beloved characters like Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Grinch, and enjoy the warm glow of...

Step into a world of enchantment at the Winter Lantern Festival, Middlefield's must-see illuminated attraction. Wander through a dazzling outdoor display featuring over 1000 handmade Chinese lanterns, creating whimsical scenes and glowing sculptures. This magical experience is perfect for all ages, offering a unique way to light up the season....

All aboard the 2025 North Pole Express for a magical nighttime train journey to the North Pole! Celebrate the season with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy festive sing-alongs, and indulge in hot chocolate and sugar cookies. Each child receives a special gift from Santa, and pajamas are encouraged for a...

Experience the magic of Lake Compounce Holiday Lights for the very last time in 2025. This beloved New England tradition features half a million twinkling lights, Connecticut's tallest 100-foot Christmas tree, and select family rides. Visit Santa, enjoy festive treats, and create lasting memories during this final season.

Experience the magic of Bethel's WinterFest, a cherished annual tradition. This festive event features an afternoon of local shopping and community activities, including caroling and a popular soup stand. As evening approaches, enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides before gathering for the grand tree lighting ceremony. The celebration continues with a meet-and-greet...

Experience the magic of "Miracle on 34th Street" as a captivating musical at the historic Shubert Theatre. This heartwarming holiday classic, featuring a book and score by Meredith Willson, brings to life the story of Doris Walker and her encounter with the possibility of the real Kris Kringle. Perfect for...

Experience the enchantment of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, a holiday tradition for over three decades. This spectacular performance features an international cast of world-class dancers, breathtaking sets, and opulent costumes. Witness the magic of Tchaikovsky's timeless score come alive with whimsical puppetry and dazzling choreography. It's a perfect family outing...

The Fairfield University Glee Club presents its annual Christmas concert, 'A Feast of Carols.' This year's program celebrates American Christmas music, featuring beloved tunes from historical hymns to modern classics. The concert includes a festive brass ensemble and invites the audience to join in singing traditional carols.

Experience the magic of the season with 'Holiday in The Warehouse,' a heartwarming cabaret show featuring acclaimed singers Maureen Hamill, Mary Richard, and Kerry Lambert, accompanied by music director David Harris. They will present a delightful program of Broadway favorites, timeless standards, and festive cheer, reminiscent of classic holiday films....

The Westport Country Playhouse presents 'A Sherlock Carol,' a critically acclaimed holiday tradition. This inventive theatrical production merges the beloved characters of Charles Dickens and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, following a grown-up Tiny Tim as he enlists Sherlock Holmes to solve the mystery of Ebenezer Scrooge's death. Expect a delightful...

Ring in the New Year in grand style at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina's Midnight Masquerade. This coastal gala promises an unforgettable evening with exquisite dining, a premium open bar, and live music from The Locomotion Band. Don your mask and dance the night away before a sparkling champagne toast...

Step back in time with a visit to The Shore Line Trolley Museum, where you can ride historic trolleys along scenic routes. Experience seasonal events, from fall-themed excursions to festive holiday rides. Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing a vast collection of vintage transit vehicles and learn about the rich history of...

Join the City of New Haven for a meaningful Hanukkah celebration with an official menorah lighting ceremony on the New Haven Green. This event is a key part of the city's diverse holiday programming, offering a moment of reflection and community spirit.

Experience the charm of Milford's annual Christmas Parade, a cherished tradition held the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This festive event brings the community together with colorful floats, lively music, and the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. It's a perfect way to kick off the holiday season with hometown cheer.

Get ready for the Naugatuck Holiday Bash, a festive celebration designed to bring the community together for a joyous holiday season. This event promises a delightful experience for all, with activities and attractions that capture the spirit of the holidays. It's the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with family...

The Old Saybrook Torchlight Parade is a cherished annual event held on the second Saturday in December. This unique parade features spirited Fife & Drum Corps from across New England and creatively decorated floats from local businesses, all illuminated by the glow of torches carried by the marchers. The festive...

The Port Jefferson Festival of Trees transforms the village center into a festive holiday wonderland. This event invites the community to participate by sponsoring beautifully decorated trees, with options available for different tiers. It's a delightful way to embrace the holiday season and support local initiatives.

Step into a festive wonderland at the Port Jefferson Lantern Light House Tour. This enchanting evening event invites visitors to stroll through the charming streets of Port Jefferson, illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns. Experience the magic as historic homes are beautifully decorated, offering a unique glimpse into the...

Embark on a magical Santa Express train ride, where Santa and Mrs. Claus visit each child, delivering special gifts. Enjoy a festive journey through winter scenery, complete with carols led by elves. This enchanting experience is perfect for families seeking holiday cheer.