New Haven Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in New Haven and surrounding areas

How we verify →
Christmas Markets (42 events) → Christmas Shows (11 events) → Christmas Lights (11 events) → Christmas Activities (33 events) →

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.

Find the best New Haven Christmas happenings this year!

New Haven Christmas Events

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Christmas Markets

42 events
Westport Holiday Stroll • Dec 6

Downtown holiday market with over 100 participating businesses and Santa's headquarters.

New Haven Christmas Markets →

Christmas Shows

11 events
Connecticut Ballet's The Nutcracker • Dec 20 – Dec 21

Guest principal dancers from NYC Ballet and ABT with live orchestra.

New Haven Christmas Shows →

Christmas Lights

11 events
Light the Lights – Winter Festival • Dec 6

Official lighting of a 40-foot holiday tree and Santa's fire truck arrival.

New Haven Christmas Lights →

Christmas Activities

33 events
Santa Express Train Ride

Visit with Santa Claus on a festive train ride.

New Haven Christmas Activities →

Editor's Picks (6)

  1. Light the Lights – Winter Festival (Danbury)
    Official lighting of a 40-foot holiday tree and Santa's fire truck arrival.
  2. Santa Express Train Ride (Thomaston)
    Visit with Santa Claus on a festive train ride.
  3. Connecticut Ballet's The Nutcracker (Hartford)
    Guest principal dancers from NYC Ballet and ABT with live orchestra.
  4. Miracle on 34th Street - The Musical
    Classic holiday film brought to life as a musical.
  5. Fairfield University Glee Club Christmas Concert - A Feast of Carols (Fairfield)
    American Christmas music concert with audience carols
  6. Winter Lantern Festival at Lyman Orchards (Middlefield)
    Over 1000 handmade Chinese lanterns in a whimsical outdoor display.

Events Happening Soon (6)

Trinity on the Green Christmas Market Thu, Nov 20 View →
Franciscan Christmas Fair Sat, Nov 22 View →
The Shops at Yale Holiday Events & Promotions Fri, Nov 28 View →
Lake Compounce Holiday Lights '25 Fri, Nov 28 View →
The First Gift Express Santa Train Sat, Nov 29 View →
Night of Lights Merry Christmas Hayride at Fairview Tree Farm Sat, Nov 29 View →

New Haven Christmas Events Map

See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.

View New Haven Christmas Events Map →
New Haven Christmas events map

Also Near New Haven

West Haven (2.8 miles) → East Haven (3.5 miles) → Hamden (5.4 miles) → Branford (6.2 miles) → North Haven (6.7 miles) → Shelton (8.6 miles) →
Christmas road trip adventure with festive characters

Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways

Worth the drive for more holiday events near New Haven!

Jersey City (71 miles) → Newark (76 miles) →

Looking for more? Explore all Connecticut Christmas Events →

New Haven Christmas FAQ

What are the biggest annual Christmas events in New Haven?

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.

What holiday traditions are unique to New Haven?

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.

Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in New Haven?

Areas like East Rock, Westville, and neighborhoods near Lighthouse Point Park are known for their festive Christmas lights and welcoming displays.

Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in New Haven?

Local makers and holiday markets can be found at community centers, downtown venues, and special events throughout New Haven during the holiday season.

What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in New Haven?

Free holiday activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending outdoor holiday markets, and enjoying festive events at local parks and community centers.

What are good picks for families with kids in New Haven?

Families enjoy the Fantasy of Lights, holiday markets with crafts and treats, and neighborhood walks to see Christmas lights together in New Haven.

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