Holiday cheer is taking over Connecticut as a variety of festive events kick off throughout the state this December. Residents and visitors can immerse themselves in a range of seasonal activities, from charming house tours to festive carriage rides. Below is a roundup of notable events that encapsulate the spirit of the holiday season.
38th Annual Holiday Stroll in West Hartford
The 38th Annual Holiday Stroll is set for Thursday, December 4, 2023, from 17:00 to 20:00 at Blue Back Square and West Hartford Center. This beloved tradition transforms the town into a winter wonderland, offering free, family-friendly activities. Attendees can meet Santa Claus, sample dishes from local restaurants, and enjoy live performances across three stages. The event also features Victorian carolers spreading holiday cheer and opportunities for families to explore local fire trucks.
Whiting Mills’ Holiday Open House
For those seeking unique, handcrafted gifts, Whiting Mills will host its Holiday Open Studios event on Saturday, December 6, and Sunday, December 7, from 10:00 to 16:00. Located at 100 Whiting Street in Winsted, this award-winning creative community will showcase dozens of studios filled with artisan wares. Visitors can find everything from pottery to woven baskets in a beautifully decorated setting reminiscent of a holiday wonderland. The Makers Shoppes will also be open every Sunday until December 14, 2023.
Homes for the Holidays Holiday House Tour in Wethersfield
The Homes for the Holidays Preview Party takes place on Friday, December 5, 2023, from 17:00 to 20:30 at the historic Silas Deane House. Guests can enjoy live music, festive carolers, and candlelight tours of homes adorned by professional designers. Tickets for the Preview Party are priced at $125 per person.
The main event, the Holiday House Tour, occurs the following day, December 6, from 10:00 to 15:00. This tour showcases beautifully decorated private homes, including the Silas Robbins Inn and the Hurlbut-Dunham House. Tickets for the house tour are available for $70, or $95 for those wishing to include a boxed lunch.
Horse Drawn Carriage Rides in Wethersfield
Starting the weekend after Thanksgiving, Wethersfield is partnering with Double M Ranch to offer free horse-drawn carriage rides. These rides will operate on weekends until the New Year, specifically from December 5-7, December 12-14, December 19-21, and December 26-28. The scenic route will take riders along Main Street to River Road and back, with some rides featuring traditional carriages and others styled as hay wagons. These rides provide an enchanting way to enjoy the local holiday atmosphere, with nearby shopping and dining options available.
Charles Dickens at New Haven Museum
On Saturday, December 13, 2023, the New Haven Museum will celebrate the holiday season with events focused on Charles Dickens. The day’s activities kick off with a special program titled “New Haven Holidays,” where Librarian Emma Norden will showcase historical Christmas artifacts from the Whitney Library collection, including handmade cards from the early 1900s.
In the afternoon, a one-man performance of Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol” will be staged by Michael Rose, who brings to life over a dozen characters from the story. This event is included with regular museum admission.
Dino-Lights: A Holiday Festival at The Dinosaur Place
Running from November 29, 2023, to January 4, 2024, Dino-Lights at The Dinosaur Place in Montville promises an enchanting experience filled with illuminated trails, festive dinosaurs, and photo opportunities. The event features a dazzling trail where families can walk amongst twinkling lights while enjoying hot chocolate. Ticket prices are set at $25 per person, with events scheduled on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 16:00 to 20:00.
As the holiday season unfolds, Connecticut offers a wealth of activities that cater to all tastes. For those looking to participate, the above events provide a perfect blend of community spirit and festive enjoyment. More events will be added to the list as they are announced, ensuring that residents can find something special to celebrate the season. For local event organizers wishing to include their activities, contact Blaine Callahan at [email protected].
