Waterbury Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Waterbury and surrounding areas
Waterbury welcomes the holiday season with Holiday lights and festive events centered around downtown and Hamilton Park, blending old‑time charm with seasonal cheer. Join the Bethlehem Christmas Town Festival or Santa Made Me Do It 5K, and catch Christmas in Connecticut: The Ugly Sweater Edition while neighborhoods twinkle with lights and community activities. With parades, holiday markets, and family activities at local theaters and shops, Waterbury offers a rich lineup of things to do and cozy experiences for visitors and residents alike.
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Christmas Markets
40 eventsLargest decorated Christmas Tree in the area
Christmas Shows
13 eventsGuest principal dancers from NYC Ballet and ABT with live orchestra.
Christmas Lights
13 eventsOfficial lighting of a 40-foot holiday tree and Santa's fire truck arrival.
Other Christmas Activities
32 eventsVisit with Santa Claus on a festive train ride.
Editor's Picks (6)
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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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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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Bethlehem Christmas Town Festival
(Bethlehem)
Largest decorated Christmas Tree in the area
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A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas
(Hartford)
Hartford's beloved holiday tradition, a classic tale of redemption.
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Glow Hartford Holiday Light Festival & Market
(Hartford)
Interactive light gardens and Santa's Sleigh Adventure
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Also Near Waterbury
North Haven
See all in North Haven →Shelton
- Monroe Historical Society Christmas Fair
- Celebrate Shelton Community Tree Lighting and Holiday Market
Waterbury Christmas FAQ
Some of the biggest annual Christmas events in Waterbury include the Holiday Pops concert and the Waterbury Holiday Light Contest. These events bring the community together with music, festive displays, and seasonal celebrations.
Waterbury celebrates with unique traditions like the Ugly Sweater Edition Holiday Pops concert and community-driven light contests. These events highlight local creativity and festive spirit distinctive to the area.
Neighborhoods known for their festive spirit and elaborate decorations are the best spots for Christmas lights in Waterbury. While specific streets vary, community favorites often emerge each year through the Waterbury Holiday Light Contest.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found in community centers, downtown venues, and neighborhood markets throughout Waterbury. Checking local event calendars will help locate current market locations and dates.
Free or budget-friendly activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending community concerts like the Holiday Pops, and exploring local craft fairs. Many events offer free admission or low-cost participation options.
Family-friendly picks include the Winter Wonderland experience, neighborhood light walks, and holiday markets with activities for children. These options provide festive fun suitable for all ages in Waterbury.