New Haven Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in New Haven and surrounding areas
New Haven welcomes the festive season with festive events and Christmas markets centered around Yale and the downtown Green. Enjoy Trinity on the Green Christmas Market, catch Miracle on 34th Street - The Musical, or attend the City of New Haven Menorah Lighting for inclusive holiday celebrations. Between historic landmarks, live performances, and seasonal activities, New Haven’s holiday attractions combine lights, music, and shopping for a rich, community-focused holiday season full of things to do.
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Christmas Markets
42 eventsDowntown holiday market with over 100 participating businesses and Santa's headquarters.
Christmas Shows
11 eventsGuest principal dancers from NYC Ballet and ABT with live orchestra.
Christmas Lights
11 eventsOfficial lighting of a 40-foot holiday tree and Santa's fire truck arrival.
Other Christmas Activities
33 eventsVisit with Santa Claus on a festive train ride.
Editor's Picks (6)
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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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Connecticut Ballet's The Nutcracker
(Hartford)
Guest principal dancers from NYC Ballet and ABT with live orchestra.
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Miracle on 34th Street - The Musical
Classic holiday film brought to life as a musical.
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Fairfield University Glee Club Christmas Concert - A Feast of Carols
(Fairfield)
American Christmas music concert with audience carols
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Winter Lantern Festival at Lyman Orchards
(Middlefield)
Over 1000 handmade Chinese lanterns in a whimsical outdoor display.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Also Near New Haven
East Haven
See all in East Haven →North Haven
See all in North Haven →Shelton
- Monroe Historical Society Christmas Fair
- Celebrate Shelton Community Tree Lighting and Holiday Market
City Of Milford Balance
See all in City Of Milford Balance →New Haven Christmas FAQ
The Fantasy of Lights at Lighthouse Point Park and the annual holiday markets at community centers are among the largest Christmas events in New Haven each year.
New Haven’s Fantasy of Lights and local holiday markets are cherished traditions, along with neighborhood light displays and community gatherings that bring residents together each season.
Areas like East Rock, Westville, and neighborhoods near Lighthouse Point Park are known for their festive Christmas lights and welcoming displays.
Local makers and holiday markets can be found at community centers, downtown venues, and special events throughout New Haven during the holiday season.
Free holiday activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending outdoor holiday markets, and enjoying festive events at local parks and community centers.
Families enjoy the Fantasy of Lights, holiday markets with crafts and treats, and neighborhood walks to see Christmas lights together in New Haven.