The holidays have arrived, West Hartford! Dive into our guide for all the top festive events. From locals to holiday travelers, this guide highlights the best of West Hartford's season.
Experience the magic of Winterfest Hartford, where ice skating and winter markets create a festive wonderland. Take a step back in time with the historic charm and holiday decor of the Mark Twain House Holiday Tours. And the Festival of Trees and Traditions is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing beautifully decorated trees and holiday displays. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Please contact us if you have suggestions or corrections!
Got questions? Like to help? Check out our West Hartford Holiday discussion here!
The Top Christmas Events in West Hartford
See these and even more events listed below!West Hartford Other Holiday Activities
Holiday Stroll
What to Expect:
Town-wide celebration with businesses offering special activities
Description:
West Hartford's Holiday Stroll transforms the town center into a bustling celebration of community and season. Local businesses open their doors for extended hours, offering special activities, treats, and promotions. The event showcases West Hartford's vibrant local economy, with over 100 participating shops and restaurants. Stroll down illuminated streets as the aroma of freshly baked goods wafts from nearby cafes. You can enjoy live ice sculpting demonstrations or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district. This tradition began in 2001 and has grown into one of the region's most anticipated holiday gatherings. The Holiday Stroll embodies West Hartford's spirit of togetherness and small-town charm.
Website:
Santa's Workshop
What to Expect:
Interactive STEM-focused holiday activities for children
Description:
Santa's Workshop in West Hartford reimagines the North Pole with a focus on STEM education. This innovative event combines holiday cheer with hands-on learning experiences. Children can engage in elf-themed coding challenges or build miniature sleighs using principles of engineering. The workshop takes place in West Hartford's Science Center, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities to create an educational winter wonderland. Participants can experiment with "snow" made through chemical reactions or learn about the physics of reindeer flight. This event, developed in collaboration with local educators, aims to spark curiosity and creativity during the holiday season. Santa's Workshop offers a unique blend of holiday magic and scientific discovery, inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Website:
Nearby Events
Winterfest Hartford (Hartford)
What to Expect:
Outdoor ice skating rink in Bushnell Park
Description:
Hartford transforms its historic Bushnell Park into a winter playground during Winterfest. The centerpiece is a sprawling outdoor ice skating rink, free for all to enjoy. Glide across the ice surrounded by twinkling lights and the park's Victorian-era architecture. Winterfest honors Hartford's long tradition of public gatherings in Bushnell Park, which dates back to 1854. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa from local vendors or join guided tours to learn about the park's rich history. This event brings the community together, celebrating the season in the heart of Connecticut's capital.
Website:
Mark Twain House Holiday Tours (Hartford)
What to Expect:
Victorian-era holiday decorations in Mark Twain's home
Description:
Step back in time at the Mark Twain House during their special holiday tours. The iconic author's Hartford home dons authentic Victorian-era decorations, transporting visitors to a 19th-century Christmas celebration. Marvel at the intricate details of period-specific ornaments and garlands adorning the rooms where Twain penned his famous works. The tour highlights how the Clemens family celebrated the holidays, offering a glimpse into their traditions. You'll discover the origins of many modern Christmas customs as you explore the beautifully preserved interiors. This unique experience combines literary history with holiday nostalgia in a truly remarkable setting.
Website:
Mark Twain House Holiday Tours
Festival of Trees and Traditions (Hartford)
What to Expect:
Diverse array of culturally-themed Christmas trees
Description:
The Festival of Trees and Traditions at the Wadsworth Atheneum showcases a dazzling array of uniquely decorated Christmas trees. Each tree represents a different culture or theme, creating a global celebration of holiday traditions. Admire the creativity and craftsmanship as you stroll through the museum's galleries. The event, which began in 1974, has become a cherished Hartford tradition. Visitors can participate in silent auctions to take home their favorite trees or wreaths. The festival also features live performances by local musicians, adding a melodious backdrop to the visual spectacle. This event offers a fresh perspective on holiday decorations, blending art, culture, and community spirit.
Website:
Festival of Trees and Traditions
Nutcracker Ballet (Hartford)
What to Expect:
Local dance company's unique interpretation of the classic ballet
Description:
Hartford's own ballet company breathes new life into the timeless Nutcracker with their innovative production. This rendition incorporates elements of Connecticut's history and culture, giving the classic tale a distinct local flavor. Watch as familiar characters dance through scenes inspired by Hartford landmarks. The performance features intricate costumes designed by local artisans, showcasing the region's creative talent. Tchaikovsky's beloved score resonates through the theater, performed live by a full orchestra. This production has been a Hartford tradition for over 50 years, evolving with each passing season. Experience a fresh take on this holiday classic that celebrates both the universal and the uniquely local.
Website:
Holiday Light Fantasia (Hartford)
What to Expect:
Drive-through light display benefiting local charities
Description:
Holiday Light Fantasia illuminates Goodwin Park with a spectacular drive-through light display. This two-mile route features over one million lights arranged in whimsical scenes and animations. Unlike static displays, many exhibits here come to life with movement and sound. The event supports Channel 3 Kids Camp and other local children's charities, turning holiday cheer into meaningful community impact. As you drive through, tune your radio to a special station playing synchronized holiday music. The display incorporates Hartford's diverse cultural heritage, featuring lights celebrating various winter holidays. This family-friendly experience allows you to enjoy the brilliance of the season from the comfort of your own vehicle.
Website:
Christmas at Hill-Stead (Farmington)
What to Expect:
Edwardian-era holiday decorations in a historic museum
Description:
Christmas at Hill-Stead offers a glimpse into early 20th-century holiday celebrations. This National Historic Landmark in Farmington adorns its rooms with authentic Edwardian-era decorations, recreating the ambiance of a 1920s Christmas. Explore the Pope family's exquisite art collection amidst period-appropriate garlands and ornaments. The event highlights the intersection of art, history, and holiday traditions. Visitors can participate in guided tours focusing on the family's Christmas customs and the house's unique architecture. Hill-Stead, designed by one of America's first female architects, provides a stunning backdrop for this seasonal celebration. This event offers a refined and educational approach to holiday festivities, set in a museum of international renown.
Website:
Annual Holiday Market (Simsbury)
What to Expect:
Curated selection of locally-made artisanal gifts
Description:
Simsbury's Annual Holiday Market showcases the best of Connecticut's artisanal talent. This carefully curated event features a diverse array of locally-made gifts, from handcrafted jewelry to small-batch gourmet foods. The market takes place in the historic Simsbury 1820 House, adding a touch of New England charm to the shopping experience. Artisans demonstrate their crafts, offering insights into their creative processes. You can sample regional specialties while browsing unique, one-of-a-kind items. This event, which began as a small craft fair, has grown into a significant platform for local makers. The Holiday Market embodies the farm-to-table ethos of the region, applied to gift-giving and supporting local economies.