You are currently viewing Getting Festive for the Holidays: Places to Visit During Christmastime in Connecticut

Christmas is a wonderful time of year to enjoy with friends and family. Of course, the festivities wouldn’t be complete without visiting an event or two before the holiday is over. So, if you’re looking for a fun filled Christmas adventure with the family in Connecticut, these places should be on your to-do list before the season is over!

Winterfest at the Trolley Museum

Located right in East Windsor, CT, the famous trolley museum hosts an annual Christmas event on weekend nights throughout the month of December. Visitors will get the chance to ride on trolleys through decorated tunnels and partake in caroling onboard. Admission is fairly priced and children will get the chance to meet Santa and receive a toy.

Christmas Lights at Lake Compounce

This amusement park in New Britain, CT opens on weekend evenings for the month of December with a bunch of family friendly and festive events. The whole park is decorated in Christmas lights, so all can stroll through. Additionally, children will get the chance to meet Santa and go on certain rides. Food trucks will also be available on location in case you and your family get hungry!

Lantern Tours at Mystic Seaport

If you plan to be down at the shore for Christmas, check out the lantern tours in Mystic, CT. This is an outdoor event, so if you plan to go, dress appropriately for the winter weather. Tours are about 90 minutes long, and attendees are led through historic Mystic by lantern light as they experience live performances throughout the night. The event is family friendly, however, it is not recommended for children under 4.

Ivoryton Illuminations

Located near the town of Essex, Ivoryton Village puts on a special light spectacular for the entire month of December. This event is free and you’ll get the opportunity to wander through the whole village covered in thousands of Christmas lights. Shops and community centers, like the library offer various events this time of year for children. Additionally, this area is famous for decorating Connecticut’s largest, living Christmas tree.

Winterfest at Hartford

If you’re in the state capitol, visit the ice rink at Bushnell Park. Free classes are offered this time of year and on certain days attendees can carol and visit with Santa Claus. This is a great, family friendly event for people of any ice skating level.

So, if you’re searching for places to visit during Christmas in Connecticut this year that can put you in more festive spirits, these events can certainly make you feel it. Are you and your family planning to go anywhere special for the Christmas holiday? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below.