Artistic rendering โ Event may differ
The Shops at Yale Holiday Events & Promotions
Holiday promotions and events across multiple districts
About
Discover a festive holiday season at The Shops at Yale in Downtown New Haven. Enjoy special promotions like free hot cocoa or cookies with purchases, and free parking with qualifying receipts. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus for stories and photos, marvel at live ice carving demonstrations, and listen to cheerful Yuletide Carolers. Don't miss the ice carving competition and a cappella concert, or the community choral concert with a toy and coat drive.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, shoppers, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, cheerful, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (most events are rain or shine)
Special Events & Promotions
- Free gourmet hot cocoa or cookie with $50+ purchase (Nov 28 - Dec 24)
- Free 2-hour parking with $50+ purchase (Nov 28 - Dec 24)
- Storytelling & selfies with Santa & Mrs. Claus
- Chapel Street Ice Carving Demonstrations
- Strolling Connecticut Yuletide Carolers
- Weekend of Holiday Cheer: Ice Carving Competition & A Cappella Concert (Dec 6)
- Weekend of Holiday Cheer: Community Choral Concert and Baby Toy & Coat Drive (Dec 7)
- Free cupcake or hot cocoa with $25+ purchase in Whitney-Audubon District
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
$$
Duration
Events typically run for 2-3 hours on specific dates
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown New Haven
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Proof of the Pudding
- The New Blue
- Out of the Blue
- Whim โn Rhythm
- Cadence of Yale
- Spizzwinks
- Something Extra
- Doox of Yale
Organizer
The Shops at Yale
Practical Information
Parking
Free 2-hour parking with a same-day purchase of $50 or more from participating retailers or restaurants at 56 Broadway and 255 Crown Street lots (Nov 28 - Dec 24). Rates for other lots vary, with some offering weekend specials. On-street parking is available and meters accept cards; free on-street parking after 9pm and Sundays.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Food trucks, cafes, restaurants, gourmet hot cocoa, cookies, kettle popcorn, and a hot cocoa competition are available.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Check the specific dates and times for each event, as they are spread across November and December.
- To qualify for free parking or treats, ensure your same-day receipts total $50 or more from participating retailers and restaurants.
- Consider using public transportation or walking if you're attending events on Broadway or Chapel Street, as parking can be busy.
- Bring your family and friends to vote in the Hot Cocoa Competition and the Ice Carving Competition for a chance to win gift cards.
- Don't forget to check for exclusive event shopping and dining offers available at The Shops at Yale table during weekend events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main holiday events at The Shops at Yale?
Key events include Storytelling & Selfies with Santa & Mrs. Claus, Chapel Street Ice Carving Demonstrations, Strolling Connecticut Yuletide Carolers, an Ice Carving Competition & A Cappella Concert, and a Community Choral Concert with a Baby Toy & Coat Drive.
How can I get free parking or treats?
Spend $50 or more on the same day at participating retailers or restaurants to receive free 2-hour parking or a free gourmet hot cocoa/cookie. Present your receipt to the attendant or at designated locations.
Are there specific times for Santa visits?
Yes, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for storytelling and photos on Saturdays, November 29 & December 6 (1-3 PM at B Natural Kitchen) and Saturdays, December 13 & 20 (1-3 PM at Barnes & Noble/The Yale Bookstore).
Where are the ice carving demonstrations held?
Ice carving demonstrations take place in front of รni-Home Life, 1046 Chapel Street, on Saturdays, November 29, December 13 & 20, from 1:00-3:00 PM. The Ice Carving Competition is on Saturday, December 6, on Broadway Island (56 Broadway).
Is there a cost to attend these holiday events?
Most of the holiday events and promotions at The Shops at Yale are free and open to the public. Some offers, like free parking or treats, require a minimum purchase.
