Ultimate Guide to Holiday Light Displays in Eastern Connecticut

The Stonington Lobster Trap Tree is the ultimate New England holiday display! Built from over 450 buoys, many hand-painted by local artists, this unique tree stands proudly by the Stonington town dock as a tribute to the area’s fishing heritage.

Stroll along paths illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights, highlighting the charm of the village’s shops and creating the perfect holiday ambiance. This free, family-friendly Holiday Lights Spectacular event is perfect for a festive evening of shopping, dining, and soaking in the spirit of the season!

Be Home For The Holidays this season at Mystic Aquarium! Stroll through festive indoor and outdoor exhibits, wave to the whales, and take in holiday-themed sights and sounds. The newly-renovated courtyard will sparkle with dancing lights set to beloved holiday tunes, creating the perfect backdrop for countless photo ops, refreshments, and even surprise guests!

Head over to Plainfield to experience a winter wonderland at Hay Burr Inn's Winter Trail of Lights! On December 29, from 5pm - 8pm, stroll through beautifully lit trails, surrounded by sparkling lights and festive holiday displays. This magical evening includes warm refreshments, family-friendly activities, and plenty of photo ops.

The Annual Niantic Light Parade will be on December 14th at 6pm, as Main Street comes alive with dazzling floats, festive lights, and holiday cheer. This spectacular community event is one of the largest in Connecticut and is fun for all ages.

Celebrate the magic of the season at Niantic’s 21st Annual Holiday Stroll! On November 30th from 12pm - 6pm, enjoy a festive day filled with holiday cheer, live music, local shopping, and delicious treats along charming Main Street.

Downtown New London is hosting Merry Days & Jolly Nights—a celebration filled with holiday cheer, festive activities, and special events! From November 29th to January 8th, enjoy holiday shopping, live music, seasonal treats, and family-friendly fun at local businesses celebrating the holiday season!

On December 7, 2024, at 5:00 PM in New London’s Parade Plaza the annual Menorah Lighting will take place! Celebrate the spirit of Hanukkah with a beautiful ceremony honoring tradition, light, and community.

The Kwanzaa Lighting Celebration in Downtown New London will be on December 26th from 5pm - 6pm! Join the community at Parade Plaza as we come together to honor the traditions of Kwanzaa with a lighting ceremony.

Get into the holiday spirit at the Annual Stonington Village Stroll & Borough A-Glow! On December 6, 2024, enjoy a magical evening as historic Stonington Borough transforms into a festive wonderland with sparkling lights, holiday decor, carolers, and charming local shops open late.

On December 7th, a festive evening hosted by the Lebanon Town Green! Decorate your car, truck, float, or tractor and get in the holiday spirit with this beloved community event. The parade starts at 5:00pm, and the lineup begins at 4:00pm. Santa will make a special appearance on the final fire truck from the Lebanon Volunteer Fire Department!

Step back in time at Lantern Light Village this holiday season! Stroll through Mystic Seaport Museum’s festive 19th-century village, glowing with lanterns, twinkling lights, and the warmth of holiday cheer. Enjoy carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, historic games, and treats, as well as heartwarming holiday stories from village townspeople of 1876.