Discover 12 verified christmas lights in Hartford and nearby areas.
Welcome to your guide for Hartford Christmas lights and holiday displays, where the season truly comes alive with festive illumination. Whether you're a local or visiting, Hartford offers a wonderful variety of ways to enjoy the glow of the holidays.
Among the highlights near Hartford, you’ll find the Magic of Lights drive-through experience in East Hartford and the interactive Glow Hartford festival at the Connecticut Convention Center. These beloved neighborhood favorites bring holiday cheer to all ages.
This guide covers everything from free neighborhood displays to ticketed events, including both drive-through lights and walking trails. Explore the options and make the most of your visit to enjoy the holiday lights in and around Hartford.
Interactive light gardens and Santa's Sleigh Adventure
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Glow Hartford, a spectacular light festival and market. Wander through illuminated gardens and marvel at giant, themed displays. Join Santa's Sleigh Adventure to help save Christmas, enjoy live entertainment, and find unique...
Dazzling drive-through holiday light displays
Embark on a magical journey through the Magic of Lights, a spectacular drive-through holiday experience in East Hartford. Witness dazzling displays of favorite holiday scenes and characters brought to life with cutting-edge LED technology and digital animations. From the comfort...
Community Chanukah candle lighting ceremonies
Celebrate the Festival of Lights at the Chase Family Gallery with the Mandell JCC. Join the community for nightly Chanukah candle lighting ceremonies, symbolizing hope and perseverance. Discover the traditions of this eight-day celebration, including festive foods and the spirit...
Enchanting Tunnel of Lights display
Step into a winter wonderland at South Windsor's Winterfest and the captivating Tunnel of Lights. This event promises a magical journey through a dazzling display of festive illuminations, perfect for creating cherished holiday memories. It's an enchanting experience designed to...
Holiday lights and trolley rides through a tunnel
Step into a winter wonderland at the Connecticut Trolley Museum's Winterfest and Tunnel of Lights. This enchanting event features dazzling light displays and a magical trolley ride through a tunnel of festive lights. Visitors can also meet Santa Claus during...
New England's tallest Christmas Tree and over 500,000 lights
Experience New England's cherished family holiday tradition at Lake Compounce's Holiday Lights. Wander through a breathtaking spectacle of over 500,000 twinkling lights, marvel at Connecticut's tallest Christmas Tree, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Meet Santa Claus and enjoy delicious...
Final season of a beloved holiday lights tradition.
Experience the magic of Lake Compounce Holiday Lights for the very last time in 2025. This beloved New England tradition features half a million twinkling lights, Connecticut's tallest 100-foot Christmas tree, and select family rides. Visit Santa, enjoy festive treats,...
Over 1000 handmade Chinese lanterns in a whimsical outdoor display.
Step into a world of enchantment at the Winter Lantern Festival, Middlefield's must-see illuminated attraction. Wander through a dazzling outdoor display featuring over 1000 handmade Chinese lanterns, creating whimsical scenes and glowing sculptures. This magical experience is perfect for all...
Three-mile drive-thru with over 750,000 lights
Journey through a wonderland of over 750,000 lights at Bright Nights at Forest Park. This spectacular three-mile drive-thru event features dazzling festive scenes, iconic characters, and illuminated gardens. Special activities include Santa's Magical Forest, horse-drawn carriage rides, and live choral...
Tour of decorated homes and craft fair
Embark on a festive journey through West Springfield's Holiday Tour of Homes. This beloved event invites visitors to explore a selection of beautifully adorned residences, offering inspiration and holiday cheer. Complementing the home tours, a Craft & Vendor Fair at...
Community celebration on High Street
Experience the festive spirit of Christmas on High Street in Holyoke. This community celebration brings together local businesses and residents for a heartwarming holiday event. Discover the festive decorations and connect with the sponsors and community partners who make this...
Magical train journey to the North Pole with Santa.
All aboard the 2025 North Pole Express for a magical nighttime train journey to the North Pole! Celebrate the season with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy festive sing-alongs, and indulge in hot chocolate and sugar cookies. Each child receives a...
See the location of all christmas lights around Hartford and nearby areas
Open Map →Some of the top displays include the Magic of Lights drive-through in East Hartford and Glow Hartford at the Connecticut Convention Center. Both offer extensive light displays and interactive holiday experiences suitable for all ages.
Drive-through displays like Magic of Lights allow you to enjoy festive scenes from the comfort of your car, ideal for families or larger groups. Walkable options, such as Glow Hartford, offer interactive light gardens and closer-up experiences with holiday decorations and activities.
Most major Hartford Christmas lights events begin in late November, around Thanksgiving, and run through December, with some extending into early January. For example, Glow Hartford starts around November 21 and Magic of Lights opens in late November as well.
Yes, several neighborhood displays and public walking trails offer free viewing of holiday lights. While some large events require tickets, many local neighborhoods near Hartford decorate extensively for free public enjoyment.