Christmas Celebrations in Central Connecticut

You know it’s Christmas when the lights go up all over town. From professional displays to neighborhood light shows, there are so many places to visit if you want to get into the spirit of the season of light. Start with family fun travel to Meriden's Festival of Silver Lights.

Connecticut Christmas season ramps up with all kinds of annual celebrations, some of which are only a day or a weekend, while others last well into December. Check out the Annual Gingerbread House Festival in South Windsor or the Christmas in Collinsville celebration.

Connecticut is full of Christmas tree farms that stretch to every corner of the state. Many offer tractor and sleigh rides, hot cocoa, wreaths and even Santa sightings. Try Dzen Family Christmas Tree Farm of South Windsor,  Rose’s Berry Farm in South Glastonbury,  Joseph’s Tree Farm in Hamden,  Broken Arrow Nursery in Hamden, and  Miller Tree Farm in Durham.

From outlets and malls to boutiques and artisan galleries, you’ll find all kinds of places to shop for unique Christmas gifts in Connecticut. There are craft bazaars and open studios, too. The Shops at Yale in New Haven are just one of the places you can go for great shopping, dining and holiday celebrations all season long. For deals on designer items, try the Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk in South Windsor, Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets or the Westbrook Outlets.

In Central Connecticut, Santa Claus makes his way around the state early, and he is a particular fan of train travel. Book your tickets early to see him on the Santa’s Trolley in East Haven.  And don’t miss Winterfest and the Tunnel of Lights at the Connecticut Trolley Museum in East Windsor. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and the elves making toys, set in a log cabin at Santa's Workshop at Wickham Park in Manchester.