Hartford Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Hartford and surrounding areas
Hartford hosts the festive season with Christmas markets, ice skating, and seasonal concerts around Bushnell Park and the downtown arts district where festive events and Christmas lights draw crowds. Glow Hartford Holiday Light Festival & Market and Connecticut Ballet's The Nutcracker are seasonal highlights. From illuminated parks to family activities and holiday performances, Hartford offers a vibrant mix of festive events that celebrate the city’s cultural heart during the holidays.
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Christmas Markets
41 eventsLargest decorated Christmas Tree in the area
Christmas Shows
12 eventsGuest principal dancers from NYC Ballet and ABT with live orchestra.
Christmas Lights
12 eventsThree-mile drive-thru with over 750,000 lights
Other 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
Guest principal dancers from NYC Ballet and ABT with live orchestra.
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Bright Nights at Forest Park
(Springfield)
Three-mile drive-thru with over 750,000 lights
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Santa Express Train Ride
(Thomaston)
Visit with Santa Claus on a festive train ride.
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Norwich Winterfest Parade
(Norwich)
Holiday kickoff parade with festive floats and music
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A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas
Hartford's beloved holiday tradition, a classic tale of redemption.
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Glow Hartford Holiday Light Festival & Market
Interactive light gardens and Santa's Sleigh Adventure
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Hartford
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Hartford.
Operation Santa 2025
Community-driven holiday assistance program for local families.
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The biggest annual events include Glow Hartford, a holiday light festival and market at the Connecticut Convention Center, and the Magic of Lights drive-through display in nearby East Hartford. Both attract large crowds and offer festive experiences throughout the season.
Hartford celebrates with interactive light festivals like Glow Hartford and community-focused markets that highlight local artisans. The city also embraces neighborhood displays and public events that foster a strong sense of local holiday spirit.
While specific neighborhoods vary each year, areas near downtown Hartford and East Hartford are known for vibrant holiday lights. Additionally, many residential neighborhoods near Hartford host beloved neighborhood displays that are free to enjoy.
Local makers and Christmas markets can be found at Glow Hartford’s holiday market at the Connecticut Convention Center and at various artisan markets held throughout the city and nearby communities during the holiday season.
Free neighborhood light displays, public walking trails decorated for the holidays, and community events like caroling or tree lightings offer budget-friendly ways to enjoy the season. Many markets also have free entry, making them accessible for all visitors.
Families will enjoy Glow Hartford’s interactive light gardens, the Glow-comotive train ride, and Magic of Lights’ drive-through displays. These events include activities and entertainment designed to engage children and create memorable holiday experiences.