Hamden Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Hamden and surrounding areas
Hamden welcomes the Christmas season with shimmering Holiday lights and community-focused festive events across downtown and near Sleeping Giant State Park. The city’s holiday attractions, including the beloved Holly Berry Festival, make for cozy weekend activities and family memories among local shops on Whitney Avenue and neighborhood green spaces. Visitors can expect twinkling displays, seasonal performances, and interactive holiday attractions that highlight Hamden’s small‑town charm while offering plenty of Holiday lights, festive events, and holiday activities for every age.
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Christmas Markets
40 eventsDowntown holiday market with over 100 participating businesses and Santa's headquarters.
Christmas Shows
13 eventsGuest principal dancers from NYC Ballet and ABT with live orchestra.
Christmas Lights
13 eventsOfficial lighting of a 40-foot holiday tree and Santa's fire truck arrival.
Christmas Activities
31 eventsVisit with Santa Claus on a festive train ride.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Connecticut Ballet's The Nutcracker
(Hartford)
Guest principal dancers from NYC Ballet and ABT with live orchestra.
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Light the Lights – Winter Festival
(Danbury)
Official lighting of a 40-foot holiday tree and Santa's fire truck arrival.
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Santa Express Train Ride
(Thomaston)
Visit with Santa Claus on a festive train ride.
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A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas
(Hartford)
Hartford's beloved holiday tradition, a classic tale of redemption.
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Glow Hartford Holiday Light Festival & Market
(Hartford)
Interactive light gardens and Santa's Sleigh Adventure
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Miracle on 34th Street - The Musical
(New Haven)
Classic holiday film brought to life as a musical.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Hamden
- Holiday Events in Branford, Hamden, and Nearby Towns Published: Mon, Dec 1, 2025
- New Haven's December Calendar Packed with Holiday Events Published: Mon, Dec 1, 2025
Hamden Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Hamden
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Hamden!
Hamden Christmas FAQ
The Holly Berry Festival is one of Hamden’s largest annual Christmas events, featuring local artisans and holiday vendors. Other highlights include neighborhood light displays and seasonal markets.
Hamden’s Holly Berry Festival stands out as a local tradition, supporting retired and infirm Sisters through a community craft fair. Neighborhood light displays and family-focused holiday events are also cherished traditions.
Many Hamden neighborhoods feature festive light displays, especially around the holiday season. Areas near Sacred Heart Academy and along Benham Street are known for their seasonal decorations.
The Holly Berry Festival at Sacred Heart Academy is a main hub for local makers and holiday markets. Smaller markets and vendor stalls also appear at community centers and local venues throughout December.
Free holiday activities in Hamden include viewing neighborhood Christmas lights, attending the Holly Berry Festival, and exploring local parks with festive displays. Many markets and events are open to the public at no cost.
Families with kids enjoy the Holly Berry Festival, neighborhood light walks, and seasonal markets with crafts and treats. Many events are designed to be welcoming and engaging for children of all ages.