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Ride, Glow, and Celebrate: Connecticut's Must-See Holiday Events

The holiday season is officially here, and Connecticut is shining bright with festive magic! Whether you’re seeking dazzling light shows, enchanting train rides, or classic Christmas villages, there’s no shortage of joy to uncover this year. 


With just a month left to wrap up 2024, we’ve rounded up the state’s most captivating holiday events to make your season unforgettable. So, bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and get ready to celebrate! 


HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOWS & CHRISTMAS VILLAGES 

Experience the twinkle of millions of lights at Connecticut's top holiday displays, from walk-through villages to drive-through spectacles. Whether it’s the iconic Glow Wild Lantern Festival in Bridgeport or the cozy magic of Christmas Village in Torrington, these events will fill your evenings with warmth and wonder. 


Bridgeport: Glow Wild Lantern Festival at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Wander through the magical Glow Wild Lantern Festival at @BeardsleyZoo!  

Bristol: Light Show at Lake Compounce Get into the spirit at @LakeCompounce's Holiday Lights!  

East Hartford: Magic of Lights at Pratt and Whitney Stadium   Drive through sparkling light displays with family fun. 

Hartford: Hartford Glow   Immersive holiday light displays in the heart of the city!️ 

Hebron: Hebron Lions Lights in Motion   A stunning drive-through holiday lights extravaganza! 

Middlefield: Winter Lantern Festival at Lyman Orchards Lantern-lit pathways and holiday fun for all. 

Meriden: Festival of Silver Lights at Hubbard Park   Free outdoor lights display that enchants every year! 

Mystic: Holiday Lights Spectacular at Olde Mistick Village A classic village shines bright for the holidays! 

Mystic: Home for the Holidays at Mystic Aquarium   Meet Santa and sea creatures under the glow of lights! 

New Haven: Fantasy of Lights at Lighthouse Point Park   Classic drive-through holiday lights on the shore. 

Norwalk: The Maritime Aquarium Shark Diving Santa, Elf Power VR Experience, Flurry Zone!

Shelton: Night of Lights Merry Christmas Hayride at Fairview Tree Farm Enjoy a hayride under twinkling lights and holiday cheer. 

Stamford: Holiday Wish Express at Stamford Town Center   A train-themed light shows and holiday fun in Stamford. 

Torrington: Christmas Village   Traditional Christmas village with Santa visits and more. 

Trumbull: Christmas Village hosted by Bridgeport PAL   A festive holiday display hosted by Bridgeport PAL. 


HOLIDAY FESTIVALS, TRAIN RIDES, AND TRAIN SHOWS 

All aboard for holiday fun! Connecticut’s trains and trolleys are transforming into festive wonderlands, offering magical rides through tunnels of lights and snowy landscapes. Or, if you prefer to stay grounded, explore immersive holiday festivals and intricate model train displays. 


Danbury: Santa Trains at Danbury Railway Museum   Ride a train with Santa and holiday surprises! 

East Haven: Train Rides at the Shore Line Trolley Museum Holiday trolley rides with festive decorations. 

East Windsor: Winterfest and the Tunnel of Lights at CT Trolley Museum   Festive trolley rides through tunnels of lights. 

Essex: Holiday Train Show at Connecticut River Museum   Intricate model trains bring holiday scenes to life. 

Greenwich: Reindeer Fest & Santa Workshop Visit live reindeer and enjoy holiday fun with Santa! 

Thomaston: Holiday Train Rides at Railroad Museum of New England Nostalgic holiday train rides through scenic Connecticut. 

Wilton: Great Trains Holiday Show at Wilton Historical Society Model train displays celebrate the season. 

 

The holidays in Connecticut bring more than just glittering lights and jolly train rides—they bring people together. These events are perfect for creating cherished memories with family and friends as we say goodbye to 2024 and welcome a new year of possibilities. 

Start planning your holiday adventure today and make this season one to remember! 


PLAN YOUR VISIT

Browse our full list of holiday events across Connecticut and grab your tickets while they last. Many events are family-friendly, and some are even free!   Explore Events Here ➡️  https://www.fairfieldafterdark.com/holidays-in-fairfield-county 


Happy Holidays, Connecticut! 🎅✨ 



Ride, Glow, and Celebrate: Connecticut's Must-See Holiday Events

CityCenter Danbury Invites Community to Join 2025 Scarecrow Decorating Contest

By City Center Danbury • September 13, 2025
CityCenter Danbury is once again calling on downtown businesses, organizations, community groups, schools, and families to unleash their creativity for the Annual Scarecrow Decorating Contest, returning this fall to transform Main Street into a colorful and whimsical autumn showcase. Participants are invited to dress, stuff, and decorate a free 5-foot scarecrow frame provided by CityCenter Danbury. Scarecrows will line up our downtown district, bringing festive fall charm and spooky fun to the community. “The Scarecrow Decorating Contest has become one of our most cherished traditions in downtown Danbury,” said Lazaro Chavez, Executive Director of CityCenter Danbury. “It’s an opportunity for businesses, families, schools, and organizations to come together, showcase their creativity, and help us make the heart of our city a welcoming and festive destination during the fall season.” How It Works Register Online at [citycenterdanbury.com/scarecrow] citycenterdanbury.com/scarecrow Pick Up Frame: Available at CityCenter HQ, 268 Main Street, Danbury CT 06810 Return Decorated Scarecrows by Friday, September 29 Entries should be fun, colorful, imaginative, whimsical, funny, cute, or historical. Participants are encouraged to use recycled materials such as clothing, hats, raffia, and straw. Scarecrows must be weather-ready to withstand sun, wind, and rain. Businesses are welcome to incorporate their logos and branding, making this a fantastic opportunity for both community promotion and team-building! Prizes First Prize: $500 Five Runners-Up: $100 gift certificate to a downtown establishment Winners will be contacted directly by email Contest Guidelines No real pumpkins, gourds, or electronic/mechanical parts permitted Scarecrows should not include gruesome, bloody, political, religious, or controversial themes All entries become the property of CityCenter Danbury and will not be returned CityCenter Danbury and the City of Danbury are not responsible for loss or damage to entries About CityCenter Danbury CityCenter Danbury is the heart of the downtown district, dedicated to creating a vibrant, welcoming, and culturally rich community. While our signature events bring residents and visitors together, our work goes beyond programming. We collaborate with property owners, local businesses, and the City to enhance the economic vitality, safety, and beauty of downtown. Through partnerships, beautification efforts, marketing, and advocacy, CityCenter Danbury is building a thriving, connected downtown where people can live, work, visit, and invest. For more information or to register, please visit citycenterdanbury.com/scarecrow

1 Wild Night Brings the Ultimate Bon Jovi Experience to The Palace Danbury – September 20.

By Cathy Ithier • September 13, 2025
Danbury, get ready to rock! On Saturday, September 20 , The Palace Danbury Theatre will come alive with the electrifying sounds of 1 Wild Night – The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute . This powerhouse tribute act delivers all the energy, charisma, and hit songs that made Bon Jovi one of the greatest rock bands of all time. From anthems like “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “You Give Love a Bad Name” to heartfelt ballads like “Wanted Dead or Alive” , 1 Wild Night recreates the unforgettable arena rock experience with stunning authenticity. Fans can expect soaring vocals, fiery guitar solos, and the high-octane stage presence that captures the true spirit of Jon Bon Jovi and his legendary band. Whether you grew up blasting Bon Jovi on cassette tapes or you’re discovering their music for the first time, this show promises an evening of sing-along hits and pure rock ’n’ roll nostalgia. Don’t miss your chance to relive the magic and celebrate one of rock’s most iconic bands. Gather your friends, grab your tickets, and get ready for one wild night you won’t forget! 🎟 Tickets are on sale now at The Palace Danbury Theatre .

Zully Ramos Brings Her Dynamic Voice to Riverbank Ramble on September 27.

By Cathy Ithier • September 10, 2025
Zully Ramos Brings Her Dynamic Voice to Riverbank Ramble on September 27. When you think of powerhouse vocals and a stage presence that commands attention, Zully Ramos is at the top of the list. This seasoned performer has graced countless stages across the Tri-State area, earning a reputation for delivering shows that are as versatile as they are unforgettable. From soulful ballads that tug at your heartstrings to rock anthems that ignite the crowd, Zully’s voice transcends genres and connects with audiences of all ages. With her band, The OGs , behind her, she delivers a sound that blends polish with raw energy—making every performance feel fresh and electrifying. Zully Ramos & the OGs will headline the Riverbank Ramble , joined by local favorites Drop Party , Cry Babi and Fan Fiction. “Get Ready to dance under the stars” - the first band goes on at 2pm. Their performance promises to set the tone for a day filled with community spirit, dancing under the stars, and incredible live music. 📅 Catch Zully Ramos & the OGs live at Riverbank Ramble 🗓️ Saturday, September 27, 2025 📍 North Stamford 🎟️ Tickets: https://bit.ly/3HKaiU4 Get ready to sing, dance, and experience the magic of Zully Ramos as she helps make Riverbank Ramble 2025 a night to remember.

Stamford Downtown hosts second Arts & Crafts on Bedford on September 20

September 10, 2025
Stamford, CT …September 9, 2025 - Stamford Downtown is hosting the second of two 2025 Arts & Crafts shows on Bedford Street next Saturday, September 20. Arts & Crafts on Bedford brings juried artisans from throughout the Northeast who will display and sell juried works including Ceramics, Fiber Arts, Fine Art, Jewelry, Metal, Photography, Painting, Wood and more. Admission is free! Arts & Crafts on Bedford will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 10am to 6:30pm on Bedford Street in Stamford Downtown. Featuring StrEATeries, Bedford Street restaurants will be offering extended outdoor patio cafés. Arts & Crafts on Bedford is presented by Stamford Downtown Special Services District and supported by Star 99.9, WEBE 108, WICC and Happyhaha.com Photography.

Jessica Paternoster Live at SoNo 1420 – Friday, September 12

By Cathy Ithier • September 10, 2025
Get ready for a night of sultry sounds and raw emotion as singer-songwriter Jessica Paternoster takes the stage this Friday, September 12, at SONO 1420 American Craft Distillers in Norwalk. Known for her versatile style spanning metal, classic rock, and acoustic storytelling , Jessica delivers performances that are both powerful and intimate. Beyond music, she also brings her artistry to theatre and film, adding depth to her creative voice. 🎶 Don’t miss this intimate solo acoustic set from one of the area’s most captivating performers. 📅 Friday, September 12 | 6–9 PM | 📍 SONO 1420 America's Maritime Distillery 19 Day Street, South Norwalk, CT

North Stamford’s Riverbank Ramble Returns September 27.

By Cathy Ithier • September 7, 2025
Are you ready to RAMBLE ?!?! 🎶 On Saturday, September 27, 2025 , North Stamford comes alive with the Riverbank Ramble , a community celebration that combines incredible live music, a beautiful countryside setting, and an intimate vibe that makes this party unlike any other. This year’s lineup is stacked with some of Fairfield After Dark’s favorite bands, and the best part—you get to experience them all in one day! The 2025 Riverbank Ramble Lineup Zully Ramos & the OGs – A seasoned performer across the Tri-State, Zully Ramos has graced countless stages with her powerful, genre-spanning vocals. Drop Party – A seven-piece powerhouse, blending horns, funk, and post-ska grooves designed to keep you on your feet all night. Cry Babi – Straight out of NYC, this high-energy group brings a fresh edge to rock, marrying modern sounds with timeless inspirations. Fan Fiction – A Fairfield County six-piece that tears through rock hits from the ‘60s to today with unapologetic energy. What Makes the Ramble Special? The Riverbank Ramble isn’t just a concert—it’s a community party. Set against the backdrop of the North Stamford countryside , the Ramble invites music lovers to come together for a one-of-a-kind outdoor celebration. For those craving a more intimate experience, the Lodge at the Riverbank Ramble offer a cozy, indoor performance space where you’ll get up close and personal with top talent. What You Need to Know Before You Go Parking : Included with your ticket and available onsite. Food & Drinks : BYO picnic! Pack your favorite eats, beverages, chairs, and blankets for comfort. Facilities : Four restrooms available. Kids & Dogs : Children under 12 are free, older kids need a ticket. Dogs are welcome at the Ramble (leash required), but not at the Lodge. Rain or Shine : The Ramble will go on regardless of weather, unless extreme conditions force cancellation. Mobility Help : A golf cart shuttle is available for guests needing extra assistance. Why You Shouldn’t Miss It There’s something magical about the Riverbank Ramble—where great music meets nature, neighbors, and community spirit. Whether you’re dancing under the open sky, lounging with your picnic spread, or discovering your new favorite band, this September night promises unforgettable memories. 👉 Mark your calendars: Saturday, September 27, 2025, for Riverbank Ramble , and The Lodge at the Riverbank Ramble on Oct 16. Get ready to rock, relax, and Ramble on! Grab your tickets at https://bit.ly/3HKaiU4
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