James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a mini-maker project from our MakerLab! Every month we will feature a quick project or new piece of equipment to mess around with. The results may have you leaving with something to physically take home OR just the satisfaction that you were able to create a circuit, power on an Arduino or thread a sewing machine. The projects are easy, meant for all ages and 100% drop-in. It is just up to you to find out which floor we are featuring the project on and drop on by.
Registration for this table is not required – just come ready to tinker, play and create!
Time:
10:30am - 12:00pm
Location:
Welles-Turner Memorial Library, 2407 Main St., Glastonbury
Description:
For children and their adults
A place to learn, play, create and explore! Adults must stay and participate with their children. These are drop-in programs ~ no registration is needed.
Time:
10:30am - 11:00am
Location:
Howard Whittemore Memorial Library, 243 Church St, Naugatuck
Description:
Storytime and more for all ages, perfect for the whole fam!!
Time:
10:30am - 11:15am
Location:
Cora J Belden Library, 33 Church St., Rocky Hill
Description:
Visit the library for an art story and project.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
5:00pm - 10:00pm
Location:
Town Green Junction of Routes 61 & 132, Bethlehem
Description:
Highlights of the festival include a Roaming Railroad choo-choo train ride, hay rides, more than 70 vendors selling handcrafted items just in time for holiday shopping, and a 5K Road Race on Saturday morning sponsored by the First Mile Race Management Company. Plus a multitude of delicious food choices to make everyone’s visit complete.
The Festival surrounds Bethlehem’s town green, at the junction of Route 61 and Route 132. All the buildings and churches participating in the festival are brimming with activities and Christmas spirit. On Friday night at 6 p.m. is the opening ceremony, where a “surprise” celebrity guest will help Santa light the town’s beautiful 75-foot Christmas tree. Santa will stay for the balance of the festival, giving families the opportunity to take their own memorable photos.
Parking at Bethlehem Fairgrounds, just north of town on Route 61, is free. Shuttle busses between the fairgrounds and the festival are provided to festival attendees at no charge. Once at the festival, there is free face painting, and a free crafts workshop for children and their parents. The “Chime In” Bell Choir as well as the Valley Chordsmen will be providing free holiday music performance throughout the festival.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Location:
Town Green, East Hartford
Description:
This festival event features a holiday carol sing-along, a visit from Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and a special visit from Santa, delivered directly from the North Pole on an East Hartford fire truck! Candy canes and hot chocolate will be on hand to keep you warm and cozy.
Time:
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location:
Wapping School, 91 Ayers Rd, South Windsor
Description:
All the Whos down in South Windsor love Christmas a lot,
But the Grinch, who lived just north of Whoville did not!
So we're throwing a holiday who-bilation
And we're inviting all Whos to join our celebration!
We'll make Grinchy crafts, and play Grinchy games
There will be so many activities, too many to name!
We'll finish the fun with a special showing
Of the Grinchiest movie before you get going.
And if we are lucky (the luckiest ones!)
Perhaps the Grinch himself will join in on our fun!
Time:
9:00am - 5:00pm
Location:
Connecticut Historical Society, 1 Elizabeth St, Hartford
Description:
Free admission to the museum galleries all day. Activity sheets will be available for children and their families to use as they explore the exhibits. Please note that free admission does not include the Waterman Research Center.
Time:
9:00am - 12:00pm
Location:
Home Depot Stores
Description:
Join our hands-on workshop and you and your child can build a project. Once the project is complete, your child can personalize it with paint. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Children must be present at the store to participate in the workshop and receive the kit, apron and pin.
Project schedule:
August 2017: Penske Truck
September 2017: Pencil Holder
October 2017: Fire House Bank
November 4, 2017: Humvee
November 25, 2017: Christmas Tree Ornament
December 2017: Gingerbread House
January 2018: Block Calendar
Time:
9:00am - 2:00pm
Location:
Main St, Middletown
Description:
DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS – MIDDLETOWN CHAPTER #7 Day
9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. – ANNUAL HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR at The Church of the Holy Trinity (381 Main St), featuring 40 Crafters; Gift Baskets; Cookie Walk; Kids Area, including Face Painting & Crafts; VT Cheese & Maple Syrup; Handiwork; Baked Goods; Christmas Ornaments; Amaryllis Bulbs; Silent & Teacup Auction, Lunch, and so much more! For more information, contact: Sharon Sheedy at (860) 347-2591
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. FREE PICTURE AND DONUTS WITH SANTA at Vinnie’s Jump & Jive (424 Main St.), courtesy of Middletown Recreation & Community Services Dept.). Donuts courtesy of Dunkin’ Donuts!
9:30 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. – 5 years & under
10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – 6 year & over
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Volunteers from the Disabled American Veterans – Middletown Chapter #7 will be staffing the POPCORN & HOT PRETZELS stand in front of the Chamber and HOLIDAY MUSIC will be provided by Harvest Woods Audio
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – THE FUN TRAIN will offer FREE RIDES on the sidewalk around the downtown throughout the day!
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. – Greet SANTA and enjoy FREE HORSE & WAGON RIDES!
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – PET FOOD DRIVE – To benefit the homeless pets at Middletown Animal Control! Please bring donations to Middlesex Chamber (393 Main St.) including:
Chew Toys (No Rawhide)
Blankets
Towels
No Pillows or Quilts
Canned Wet Dog & Cat Food
Dry Dog & Cat Food
For more information, contact: LMiddleton@ForestCityMarketing.com
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Webster Bank’s 12th Annual Giving Tree (363 Main St) will benefit the Amazing Grace Food Pantry. For a list of accepted non-perishable donations needed, please contact Amy Glowka at 860-638-6906 or aglowka@websterbank.com. Drop off times are M-W 9 a.m to 3 p.m. and Th/F 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. On Saturdays, donations may be brought to Middlesex Chamber!
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Cub Scout Pack 2 in Portland will be collecting donations on Main Street Middletown to purchase wreaths to be placed on the graves of local veterans on December 16 at the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown in observance of Wreaths Across America. Contact: Heidi Abbott – 860-301-3365 or maichow2@aol.com
11:30 a.m. – 12 noon – HOLIDAY STORY TIME – BISCUIT, THE DOG will be at Main Street Firehouse (533 Main St.), where Fire Chief Rob Kronenberger will read stories. At the end of the reading, there will be books for sale, and a “Book Signing” by Biscuit…bring your camera!
Time:
9:30am - 4:00pm
Location:
Town Green Junction of Routes 61 & 132, Bethlehem
Description:
Highlights of the festival include a Roaming Railroad choo-choo train ride, hay rides, more than 70 vendors selling handcrafted items just in time for holiday shopping, and a 5K Road Race on Saturday morning sponsored by the First Mile Race Management Company. Plus a multitude of delicious food choices to make everyone’s visit complete.
The Festival surrounds Bethlehem’s town green, at the junction of Route 61 and Route 132. All the buildings and churches participating in the festival are brimming with activities and Christmas spirit. On Friday night at 6 p.m. is the opening ceremony, where a “surprise” celebrity guest will help Santa light the town’s beautiful 75-foot Christmas tree. Santa will stay for the balance of the festival, giving families the opportunity to take their own memorable photos.
Parking at Bethlehem Fairgrounds, just north of town on Route 61, is free. Shuttle busses between the fairgrounds and the festival are provided to festival attendees at no charge. Once at the festival, there is free face painting, and a free crafts workshop for children and their parents. The “Chime In” Bell Choir as well as the Valley Chordsmen will be providing free holiday music performance throughout the festival.
Time:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a mini-maker project from our MakerLab! Every month we will feature a quick project or new piece of equipment to mess around with. The results may have you leaving with something to physically take home OR just the satisfaction that you were able to create a circuit, power on an Arduino or thread a sewing machine. The projects are easy, meant for all ages and 100% drop-in. It is just up to you to find out which floor we are featuring the project on and drop on by.
Registration for this table is not required – just come ready to tinker, play and create!
Time:
10:00am - 6:00pm
Location:
Downtown Greenwich
Description:
Once again the holiday season will come to life in downtown and uptown Greenwich. This much anticipated annual event features a live Nativity, horse drawn carriage rides, live music and entertainment tents, professional ice sculpture demonstrations, food trucks in several locations, letter writing to Santa and more than 120 participating retailers and restaurants offering promotions, refreshments and holiday cheer. And the holidays would not be complete without a visit with the live reindeer, photos with Santa and rides on the Winter Wonderland Carousel and the North Pole Polar Express Train at the 9th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Village as it returns to, Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses.
Time:
10:00am - 5:00pm
Location:
North Haven Fair, 290 Washington Ave, North Haven
Description:
Join us at the North Haven Fairgrounds on Saturday, December 2nd 2017 from10am-5pm for the North Haven Fair Winter Festival.
Admission: a donation to the Town of North Haven Toy or Food Bank.
Featuring:
FREE activities for children
Decorated tree raffles
Gingerbread and Winter Photography contests
Caroling and live music by local organizations
Barrel Warming Stations
Winter Wonderland lights display
Festive Food Trucks
Holiday Shopping at local craft and gift vendors
Santa arrives on a Fire Truck!
and more!
visit http://www.NorthHaven-Fair.com/Winter/ for full schedule, more information, or to participate in our winter contests.
Celebrate the Holiday Season with the Colchester Historical Society! Mark your calendars, and stay tuned for more information coming soon! Visit our website at: www.colchesterhistory.org for the most up-to-date information
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
11:00am - 1:00pm
Location:
Middlebury Public Library, 30 Crest Rd, Middlebury
Description:
Enjoy a movie with family and friends. Bring your own snacks.
Time:
11:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
Olde Mistick Village, 27 Coogan Blvd, Mystic
Description:
The Olde Mistick Village Merchant’s Association is hosting their annual Holiday Carnival on December 2, starting at 11am. Stroll around the village to view Merchant's custom decorated wreaths and vote for your favorite. Live music, performers, pet photos with Santa, great gifts, and more await at this great winter tradition!
Kids can do their holiday shopping at Santa’s Workshop inside the Meeting House 12noon to 4pm. Santa’s elf, Gumdrop, will be there to assist children in selecting that special gift in a store designed just for them! All items will be priced under $10.00. Proceeds will be given to a local charity.
Stay tuned for additions to the schedule:
11am-4pm: Live music at the gazebo and Garden Specialties
11am-1pm: Mystic River Chorale
11am-1pm: The Vince Thompson Band
11am-1pm: Sue Menhardt Duo
12-4pm: Santa’s Workshop at the Meeting
House: all items are under $10
1-2:45pm: Free showing of “A Christmas Carol” at the Mystic Luxury Cinemas
1-3pm: Santa pet photos at the gazebo near Raining Cats & Dogs
1-3pm: Fly by Night Jugglers
2-3:30pm: The Festive Brass band
2-4pm: Stonington High School Christmas Carolers
2:45-3:30pm: Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center bird demonstration
Holiday Carnival is so much more than a great day to get some holiday gift shopping done and support local small businesses. Join us!
Time:
11:00am - 12:00pm
Location:
Barnes & Noble, 235 Union St, Waterbury
Description:
Storytime perfect for the whole family! Enjoy a new story every Saturday with fun crafts and activities to follow!
**Check website for specific story**
Time:
2:00pm - 5:30pm
Location:
Main St, South Meriden
Description:
Enjoy horse drawn carriage rides, tree lighting, bonfire, entertainment, refreshments, pictures with Santa, and a Santa parade at 2 p.m. Please bring a canned food donation for Meriden Soup Kitchen or a gently used book donation.
Time:
2:30pm - 5:30pm
Location:
2901 Dixwell Ave, Hamden
Description:
Join the Hamden Arts Commission for their annual Silverbells Holiday Festival on Saturday, December 2nd from 2:30-5:30 at Hamden Town Center Park. The event will feature Letters to Santa, button making, facepainting, a visit by Santa and more.
The event begins indoors at 2:30pm inside the Thornton Wilder Hall with a wonderful performance by Wayne Martin Puppets: "Martin's Magical Musical Review" (40 minute performance). Tickets to this performance are available at the door only, cash only and are $2 children, $3 adults.
The event continues outdoors in Town Center Park - free of charge - (bring cash for food vendors) with a visit by Santa himself around 4:30pm. Plenty of parking is available both in the Miller Library lot and on the Town Center field behind the Hamden Middle School.
The Commission will also be collecting toys for the annual Toy Drive benefitting families throughout Hamden. Please bring a new, unwrapped toy to place beneath our tree to share with a family in need this season.
Rain date for outdoor activities is Sunday, December 3rd while the indoor puppet show will go on rain or shine on December 2nd.
Time:
4:30pm - 6:00pm
Location:
Waters Edge Resort and Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook
Description:
Activities include pictures with Santa, tree lighting, cookie decorating, complimentary Christmas cookies and brownies, hot cider, hot cocoa and coffee.
Time:
5:00pm
Location:
Parade begins at South Road (Route 1) Ends at Groton Shopping Plaza, Groton
Description:
Marching bands, beautifully lit floats and groups on foot move along Route 1 to the Groton Shopping Plaza, as guests line the streets to sneak a peak. Participants are judged in four categories: Finest Illumination, Sounds of the Season, Most Creative, and Best Children's entry. After the parade, Santa Claus lights the Christmas tree. The evening ends with caroling and photos with Santa and live music.
Time:
5:00pm
Location:
Ivoryton Center, Main Street, Ivoryton
Description:
On December 2, the entire village of Ivoryton will be participating in this holiday extravaganza with carol singing, Santa’s Grotto, a Holiday Bazaar, culminating with the arrival of Santa and the lighting of the states’ largest living Christmas tree at 6 p.m. Ivoryton will be lighting up the holiday with over 400,000 lights throughout the village.
Family activities from 5 p.m. at Ivoryton Library, Ivoryton Playhouse, the Fire House, iCRV Radio, Six Summit Gallery as well as special events at The Ivoryton Tavern and Cafe, Blue Hound Cookery and Taproom, The Copper Beech Inn, Elephant Crossing and The Ivoryton Inn. Music will be provided by local musicians playing at various locations throughout the village.
Free parking will be available at the First Congregational Church and The Copper Beech Inn with a shuttle bus service to the village. The Illuminations will shine brightly through January 5 and visitors can tune their car radios to 101.5FM and watch as the lights dance to the music.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Location:
Main St at Hebron Ave, Glastonbury
Description:
Light the center and visit with Santa!
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
12:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
Downtown Greenwich
Description:
Once again the holiday season will come to life in downtown and uptown Greenwich. This much anticipated annual event features a live Nativity, horse drawn carriage rides, live music and entertainment tents, professional ice sculpture demonstrations, food trucks in several locations, letter writing to Santa and more than 120 participating retailers and restaurants offering promotions, refreshments and holiday cheer. And the holidays would not be complete without a visit with the live reindeer, photos with Santa and rides on the Winter Wonderland Carousel and the North Pole Polar Express Train at the 9th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Village as it returns to, Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses.
Time:
1:00pm
Location:
Post Office Square to East Main Street, Clinton
Description:
Activities include Santa's Workshop, Soup's On Contest, a Elf on a Shelf Scavenger Hunt, music, children activities, and historic houses will be open. Stroll along the luminaries along East Main Street, do some shopping in local boutiques and watch the tree lighting ceremony and the arrival of Santa Claus.
Time:
1:00pm - 3:30pm
Location:
Community Cultural Center, 50 Chapman Place, East Hartford
Description:
Come visit Santa and his helpers for an array of holiday activities designed to get you and your family in the holiday spirit. Pre-registration required by December 1 to guarantee your child a free gift from Santa.
Time:
3:00pm
Location:
St. James Episcolpal Church, 76 Federal St., New London
Description:
Shoreline Ringers, a community handbell choir based out of southeastern Connecticut, awes and inspires audiences with their ringing. This dynamic and energetic handbell choir is dedicated to musical excellence and handbell education through their exciting and uplifting performances. the repertoire performed by this inspirational handbell choir, is secular and popular in nature, and includes varying techniques and rhythms that promise pleasure and fun for all.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
5:00pm
Location:
New Hartford Center, Main Street Route 44, New Hartford
Description:
A community event held on the first Sunday in December in the center of New Hartford, Connecticut. Local school choirs, churches, businesses and individuals all gather to celebrate the holidays. This year we will celebrate the 20th anniversary of this town-wide event.
Time:
5:00pm
Location:
Landmark Square, Broad St., Stamford
Description:
From 22 stories high above Stamford Downtown, watch and cheer for Santa Claus and celebrity rappelling elf, Yankees General Manager, Brian Cashman, as they make their daredevil descent, twisting and flying the top of one of Stamford's tallest buildings, Landmark Square. Then follow Santa and friends up Bedford Street to Latham Park for an evening of holiday music and the lighting of the holiday tree.
Time:
5:40pm - 6:15pm
Location:
First Congregational Church of Cheshire, 111 Church Dr, Cheshire
Description:
Annual Tree Lighting and Community Caroling
Sunday, December 3 at 6:00PM
Once again Cheshire Parks and Recreation is coordinating the annual tree lighting! The Cheshire Community Chorus will lead an old-fashioned carol sing-a-long beginning at 5:45PM. The Junior Women’s Club will be serving refreshments and Santa is planning to visit to help light the tree. This event will be fun for the whole family! In case of inclement weather an announcement will be made here and the make up will be December 4.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
10:30am - 11:30am
Location:
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave, Canton
Description:
We are delighted to offer our popular Tuesday morning story time once again! Each week, we'll meet for stories, songs, a small snack, a short book-related movie led by Children's Librarian Heather Baker, and then finish off the fun with a special craft. Children ages 3 & up plus their families are always welcome! (Stuffed animal friends too!) We'll hold story time each and every Tuesday the library is open, weather permitting. If Canton Schools are closed for inclement weather, story time is cancelled. In November, we start with a special guest performance by Hannah and Garrett of Two Right Feet with their ""Seuss Bands Boom Bands" story time. All the other weeks of November, we will be celebrating S.T.E.A.M. programs with story times that include building & experiments!
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
Barrett Bookstore, 314 Heights Rd, Darien
Description:
Join us every Tuesday at 4:00 pm for Storytime!
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
5:00pm - 9:00pm
Location:
Main Street, Pawcatuck
Description:
The streets of historic downtown are lined with luminaria, carolers, and Christmas festivities. Enjoy a hay ride with Santa or a complimentary cup of hot chocolate and a cookie to warm you up while shopping. Stores run special promotions and discounts to kick off the holiday season.
WAS hosts free Public Astronomy Nights every clear Wednesday evening (clear skies only) from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the Observatory at 182 Bayberry Lane in Westport. Trained volunteers offer guided tours of the night sky through the Society's telescopes. During the summer, near the solstice, we strongly recommend not arriving until it gets dark. To confirm if we'll be open, please check our website which will be updated by 4:30pm every Wednesday. Visitors may view the Moon, planets, stars, nebula and galaxies through the massive and recently upgraded 25 inch Obsession Dobsonian 'the largest telescope available for public use in the state of Connecticut ' or through WAS's 12 ˝ inch Newtonian housed under the observatory dome.
Location:
Cora J Belden Library, 33 Church St., Rocky Hill
Description:
Families can come in anytime the library is open and make a craft together. Stop by the Children's desk for the supplies and complete your project in our Program Room. For families with children ages 3 and up. No registration required.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
3:30pm - 4:30pm
Location:
Raymond Library, 840 Main Street, East Hartford
Description:
Come and build with us! We have Duplo blocks for younger kids and regular LEGO® bricks for older kids! For kids ages 2 and up and their caregivers. No registration required.
Time:
4:30pm - 5:15pm
Location:
Middlebury Public Library, 30 Crest Rd, Middlebury
Description:
Come play and experiment with our STEM station. For grades 3-5.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
5:00pm - 7:30pm
Location:
Blue Back Square, Isham Road, West Hartford
Description:
Horse drawn carriage rides, carolers and street entertainment . . . all evoke images of a traditional new England winter season and now Blue Back Square and West Hartford Center bring the magic of holidays past as they host the Annual Holiday Stroll.
Time:
5:00pm - 9:00pm
Location:
Keeney Memorial Cultural Center, 200 Main St., Wethersfield
Description:
Come view the Children's Holiday Trees display, the new exhibit Come Play with Us: Toys from Wethersfield's Attic, and enjoy children's games and hot cider at the Keeney Memorial Cultural Center. The Hurlbut-Dunham House (212 Main St.) will be decked out for thd holidays and open from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
Time:
6:30pm - 7:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Enjoy a sleepy story hour filled with rhymes, movement, and songs. Ages 5 and under with an adult.
More info: 203-488-1441, ext 323
Time:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a mini-maker project from our MakerLab! Every month we will feature a quick project or new piece of equipment to mess around with. The results may have you leaving with something to physically take home OR just the satisfaction that you were able to create a circuit, power on an Arduino or thread a sewing machine. The projects are easy, meant for all ages and 100% drop-in. It is just up to you to find out which floor we are featuring the project on and drop on by.
Registration for this table is not required – just come ready to tinker, play and create!
Time:
10:30am - 12:00pm
Location:
Welles-Turner Memorial Library, 2407 Main St., Glastonbury
Description:
For children and their adults
A place to learn, play, create and explore! Adults must stay and participate with their children. These are drop-in programs ~ no registration is needed.
Time:
10:30am - 11:00am
Location:
Howard Whittemore Memorial Library, 243 Church St, Naugatuck
Description:
Storytime and more for all ages, perfect for the whole fam!!
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
5:30pm - 9:30pm
Location:
Olde Mistick Village, 27 Coogan Blvd., Mystic
Description:
Walk through a winter wonderland with more than 4,000 luminaries light the walkways along with entertainment and refreshments throughout the evening. Holiday music by Ragtime Too, from 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Outdoor entertainment includes Too Tall Guys, 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; Fly By Night Holiday Jesters, 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; and the Festive Brass performs at 6 p.m.
Time:
6:00pm - 8:30pm
Location:
Downtown, Main Street, Collinsville
Description:
A starry night in Collinsville with downtown streets lit up with luminaries. Friday evening includes a Champagne Walk, horse drawn carriage rides, tree lighting (7 p.m.), open mic night at LaSalle Market, craft fair and the Gallery of Trees (Canton Historical Society). Saturday includes craft fair, horse drawn carriage rides, storytime with Mrs Claus, children's crafts, face painting, visit with Santa Claus, puppet shows, and the Gallery of Trees.
Time:
6:00pm - 8:30pm
Location:
Bryan Memorial Town Hall, 2 Bryan Plaza, Washington Depot
Description:
Sleigh bells ring! Snow is glistening! Behold a beautiful sight and walk in a winter wonderland. The festivities kick off with the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree and carols sung by students at the Washington Montessori School and The Gunnery. Shortly after, Santa will arrive by a horse-drawn wagon and children will be able to tell him their wishes as well as pose for a photo. While you wait for a picture with Santa, you can take part in a holiday craft or go on a hayride given by the Utopia Percherons.
Washington will be glowing bright with holiday lights and cheer. As you stroll through the Depot, be sure to stop at the local shops to admire their wreath displays and enjoy some tasty treats. The Hickory Stick Bookshop will have refreshments and special surprises for all visitors while the Washington Art Association will have a beautiful display of gifts. Throughout the evening, carolers will be roaming around the Depot and they will serenade you with traditional holiday songs as you explore the town.
The Animal Welfare Society will be providing holiday goodies for both pets and people. The Washington PTO will have hot dogs and chili for sale.
This is just a sampling of all that will be happening, so please come to Washington with friends and family. This is a great opportunity for those who have never visited Washington to become acquainted with the town and all the wonderful things it has to offer. Celebrate, eat, explore, and be merry at the Holiday in the Depot. You don't want to miss it!
Time:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a mini-maker project from our MakerLab! Every month we will feature a quick project or new piece of equipment to mess around with. The results may have you leaving with something to physically take home OR just the satisfaction that you were able to create a circuit, power on an Arduino or thread a sewing machine. The projects are easy, meant for all ages and 100% drop-in. It is just up to you to find out which floor we are featuring the project on and drop on by.
Registration for this table is not required – just come ready to tinker, play and create!
Time:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
Downtown, Main Street, Collinsville
Description:
A starry night in Collinsville with downtown streets lit up with luminaries. Friday evening includes a Champagne Walk, horse drawn carriage rides, tree lighting (7 p.m.), open mic night at LaSalle Market, craft fair and the Gallery of Trees (Canton Historical Society). Saturday includes craft fair, horse drawn carriage rides, storytime with Mrs Claus, children's crafts, face painting, visit with Santa Claus, puppet shows, and the Gallery of Trees.
Time:
10:00am - 1:00pm
Location:
Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, 600 Main St, Hartford
Description:
As always, museum admission is free during Second Saturdays activities!
Free Family Tours:
ABCs: Art, Books, Connections, 10:30-11am
Ask About Art, 11am-noon
Eyes on Art Family Tour, 11:30am-noon
Time:
10:00am - 2:00pm
Location:
Main St, Middletown
Description:
ROTARY CLUB OF MIDDLETOWN DAY!
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – The Rotary Club of Middletown will be staffing the POPCORN & HOT PRETZELS stand in front of the Chamber – stop by to meet them! Also HOLIDAY MUSIC played by Harvest Woods Audio
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. – Greet SANTA and enjoy FREE HORSE & WAGON RIDES!
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – THE FUN TRAIN will offer FREE RIDES on the sidewalk around the downtown throughout the day!
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – HOLIDAY PHOTO BOOTH – Take 4″x 6″ fun photos (NO FEE!) with your friends and family as a remembrance of the 2017 holidays! The photo trailer will be located by the crosswalk in front of Holy Trinity Church!
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Third Congregational Church will be giving out Hot Chocolate in front of Middlesex Chamber!
10:00 a.m – 2:00 p.m. – AMBER ALERT ID CARDS – The Rotary Club of Middletown will be located by Middlesex Chamber, and will take information and create an Amber Alert ID Card for parents to hold onto and use if needed to locate their child. All information is collected and sent to the National Headquarters overnight! Contact: Justin Wilkie at 860-346-8695 or Justin.Wilkie@middlesexunitedway.org
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – PET FOOD DRIVE – To benefit the homeless pets at Middletown Animal Control! Please bring donations to Middlesex Chamber (393 Main St.) including:
Chew Toys (No Rawhide)
Blankets
Towels
No Pillows or Quilts
Canned Wet Dog & Cat Food
Dry Dog & Cat Food
For more information, contact: LMiddleton@ForestCityMarketing.com
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Webster Bank’s 12th Annual Giving Tree (363 Main St) will benefit the Amazing Grace Food Pantry. For a list of accepted non-perishable donations needed, please contact Amy Glowka at 860-638-6906 or aglowka@websterbank.com. Drop off times are M-W 9 a.m to 3 p.m. and Th/F 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. On Saturdays, donations may be brought to Middlesex Chamber!
11:30 a.m. – 12 noon – HOLIDAY STORY TIME – CORDUROY BEAR will be at Wesleyan / RJ Julia Bookstore. (413 Main St.), where Police Chief Bill McKenna will read stories. At the end of the reading, there will be books for sale and a “Book Signing” by Corduroy Bear….Bring your camera!
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
11:00am - 1:00pm
Location:
Middlebury Public Library, 30 Crest Rd, Middlebury
Description:
Enjoy a movie with family and friends. Bring your own snacks.
Time:
11:00am - 12:00pm
Location:
Barnes & Noble, 235 Union St, Waterbury
Description:
Storytime perfect for the whole family! Enjoy a new story every Saturday with fun crafts and activities to follow!
**Check website for specific story**
Time:
1:00pm - 6:00pm
Location:
Downtown, 413 Sharon Goshen Tpke., West Cornwall
Description:
West Cornwall invites you to celebrate the holiday season with a Santa's Workshop at the Souterrain Gallery where Joe Brien of Lost Arts Workshop will create a wooden holiday item with little and big kids, from 1 p.m.-4 p.m., while Susan Hellmann's exhibit Simply Cornwall Extended and Expanded is on display and Santa will be overseeing operations and will be available to pose for photos also kids refreshments will be served.
The Wish House offering German Gluehwein with freshly imported spices from the old country for the adults.
Llama walks courtesy of Country Quilt Llama Farm will start around 2 p.m.
Caroline Nastro will be signing her most recent children's book The Bear Who Couldn't Sleep, from 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
Bain Real Estate will be delighting with music, eggnog, and sweets.
At Ian Ingersoll's Cabinetmakers an exhibit of local artists will be accompanied by champagne, hot cocoa and delicious munchies.
The original How the Grinch Stole Christmas will be shown at the West Cornwall Library starting at 4 p.m.
CJ at Housatonic Hair Works is featuring his handmade soaps and will be offering essential peppermint oil infused hot chocolate and holiday cookies.
Also, available a delightfully relaxing chair massage by Louise Levy.
At Pearly's Farmhouse Cafe a Charlie Brown Tree Lighting will take place at dark and the EDC will be offering seasonal candy and Santa letter writing supplies. A Dinner for Four at Pearly's Farmhouse Cafe will go to one lucky winner of this events raffle which just requires you to collect three stamps from participating stops to enter.
Come and have fun!
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:00pm
Location:
1 Main Street, Old Saybrook
Description:
More than 20 fife and drum corps hailing from as far away as Pennsylvania and Vermont will march along Main Street to the Town Green. Leading the musician groups will once again be the 2nd Company Governor's Foot Guard marching unit.
The marching musicians, dressed in period costumes, will play musical selections that their counterparts might have played more than 100 to 200 years ago. Alongside each corps will be parade volunteers who will carry torches to light the way. In addition to the musicians, more than 20 floats and other marching units plan to participate in this annual parade.
The Torchlight Parade re-enacts an annual event held in many New England towns during the Colonial period. Each December, the village militia would muster and march to the village common led by their fife and drum corps. Marchers and local residents would carry torches to light the procession. This Old Saybrook parade commemorates that annual event.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
12:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
New Britain Museum of American Art, 56 Lexington St., New Britain
Description:
In celebration of “the most wonderful time of the year,” participants can learn about Christmas, Hannukah, and Kwanzaa in the ArtLab or stop by the American Savings Foundation Art & Education Center to create their own wrapping paper. Also, families can enjoy a performance by West Hartford-based Ballet Theatre Company, who will perform excerpts from The Nutcracker, and a later performance by the Whitechapel Handbell Choir of First Church.
Time:
12:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
Mattatuck Museum, 144 West Main St., Waterbury
Description:
On the second Sunday of each month, the Museum is free to everyone all day. Special programming for children of all ages and their adult caregivers, includes guided gallery-based activities led by a Teaching Artist followed by a related hands-on take home art project which serves as a means to welcome inter-generational participation.
Time:
2:00pm
Location:
Leamy Auditorium at U.S. Coast Guard Academy, 15 Mohegan Ave., New London
Description:
The afternoon program, "A Family Holiday," includes fun for all ages and a performance by New London's own Flock Theatre. The evening program, "Songs of the Season," offers traditional fare and holiday hits featuring soprano soloist Megan Weikleenget.
Shows at 2 pm and 7 pm
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
10:30am - 11:30am
Location:
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave, Canton
Description:
We are delighted to offer our popular Tuesday morning story time once again! Each week, we'll meet for stories, songs, a small snack, a short book-related movie led by Children's Librarian Heather Baker, and then finish off the fun with a special craft. Children ages 3 & up plus their families are always welcome! (Stuffed animal friends too!) We'll hold story time each and every Tuesday the library is open, weather permitting. If Canton Schools are closed for inclement weather, story time is cancelled. In November, we start with a special guest performance by Hannah and Garrett of Two Right Feet with their ""Seuss Bands Boom Bands" story time. All the other weeks of November, we will be celebrating S.T.E.A.M. programs with story times that include building & experiments!
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
Barrett Bookstore, 314 Heights Rd, Darien
Description:
Join us every Tuesday at 4:00 pm for Storytime!
Time:
4:30pm - 7:00pm
Location:
Latham Park, Bedford Street, Stamford
Description:
Warm your heart with Jewish pride as we publicly light one of Fairfield County's largest menorah at Latham Park.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:00pm
Location:
Enfield Square Mall, 90 Elm St., Enfield
Description:
Visit the Enfield Square Mall for warm latkes and dancing.
Time:
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Location:
Monroe Town Hall, 7 Fan Hill Rd., Monroe
Description:
The Mishkan Israel Day Camp will once again light a Menorah in celebration of the Chanukah holiday in Monroe.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:00pm
Location:
Glastonbury Center Green, Hebron Avenue & Main Street, Glastonbury
Description:
Visit the Glastonbury Center Green for warm latkes and dancing.
Time:
6:00pm
Location:
Trumbull Town Hall, 5866 Main St., Trumbull
Description:
The Mishkan Israel Day Camp will once again light a Menorah in celebration of the Chanukah holiday in Trumbull.
WAS hosts free Public Astronomy Nights every clear Wednesday evening (clear skies only) from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the Observatory at 182 Bayberry Lane in Westport. Trained volunteers offer guided tours of the night sky through the Society's telescopes. During the summer, near the solstice, we strongly recommend not arriving until it gets dark. To confirm if we'll be open, please check our website which will be updated by 4:30pm every Wednesday. Visitors may view the Moon, planets, stars, nebula and galaxies through the massive and recently upgraded 25 inch Obsession Dobsonian 'the largest telescope available for public use in the state of Connecticut ' or through WAS's 12 ˝ inch Newtonian housed under the observatory dome.
Location:
Cora J Belden Library, 33 Church St., Rocky Hill
Description:
Families can come in anytime the library is open and make a craft together. Stop by the Children's desk for the supplies and complete your project in our Program Room. For families with children ages 3 and up. No registration required.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
4:30pm - 5:15pm
Location:
Middlebury Public Library, 30 Crest Rd, Middlebury
Description:
Come play and experiment with our STEM station. For grades 3-5.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:00pm
Location:
Colchester Town Green, 112-228 Broadway St., Colchester
Description:
Visit the Colchester Town Green for warm latkes and dancing.
Time:
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Location:
Sherman Green, 1451 Post Road, Fairfield
Description:
The Mishkan Israel Day Camp will once again light a menorah in celebration of the Chanukah holiday in Fairfield.
Time:
6:30pm - 7:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Enjoy a sleepy story hour filled with rhymes, movement, and songs. Ages 5 and under with an adult.
More info: 203-488-1441, ext 323
Time:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a mini-maker project from our MakerLab! Every month we will feature a quick project or new piece of equipment to mess around with. The results may have you leaving with something to physically take home OR just the satisfaction that you were able to create a circuit, power on an Arduino or thread a sewing machine. The projects are easy, meant for all ages and 100% drop-in. It is just up to you to find out which floor we are featuring the project on and drop on by.
Registration for this table is not required – just come ready to tinker, play and create!
Time:
10:30am - 12:00pm
Location:
Welles-Turner Memorial Library, 2407 Main St., Glastonbury
Description:
For children and their adults
A place to learn, play, create and explore! Adults must stay and participate with their children. These are drop-in programs ~ no registration is needed.
Time:
10:30am - 11:00am
Location:
Howard Whittemore Memorial Library, 243 Church St, Naugatuck
Description:
Storytime and more for all ages, perfect for the whole fam!!
Time:
10:30am - 12:00pm
Location:
Cora J Belden Library, 33 Church St., Rocky Hill
Description:
Come into the library for free play with LEGOs & DUPLOs.
Held the 3rd Friday of every month!
Registration not required.
For ages 2 and up with an adult.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a mini-maker project from our MakerLab! Every month we will feature a quick project or new piece of equipment to mess around with. The results may have you leaving with something to physically take home OR just the satisfaction that you were able to create a circuit, power on an Arduino or thread a sewing machine. The projects are easy, meant for all ages and 100% drop-in. It is just up to you to find out which floor we are featuring the project on and drop on by.
Registration for this table is not required – just come ready to tinker, play and create!
Time:
10:00am - 10:30am
Location:
Welles-Turner Memorial Library, 2407 Main St., Glastonbury
Description:
Everyone is invited to put down the technology and fully participate in this family-oriented storytime that is fun for young and old. A simple craft will follow each themed storytime. Together Time Tales is offered the third Saturday of the month through May 2018. No registration is needed.
Time:
10:00am - 2:00pm
Location:
Main St, Middletown
Description:
MARC: COMMUNITY RESOURCES DAY!
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
(FINAL SATURDAY OF THE EVENT!)
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. – MARC: Community Resources will be staffing the POPCORN & HOT PRETZELS stand in front of the Chamber – stop by to meet them!! Also HOLIDAY MUSIC played by Harvest Woods Audio
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. – Greet SANTA and enjoy FREE HORSE & WAGON RIDES!
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m – PETTING FARM from JD’s Pony Express of Killingworth – Visit the animals on Main Street, located by the crosswalk in front of Holy Trinity Church! Animals include:
o Sheep
o Goats
o A Miniature Donkey (named Wilbur)
o A Fallow Deer (named Suzie)
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – THE FUN TRAIN will offer FREE RIDES on the sidewalk around the downtown throughout the day!
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – PET FOOD DRIVE – To benefit the homeless pets at Middletown Animal Control! Please bring donations to Middlesex Chamber (393 Main St.) including:
Chew Toys (No Rawhide)
Blankets
Towels
No Pillows or Quilts
Canned Wet Dog & Cat Food
Dry Dog & Cat Food
For more information, contact: LMiddleton@ForestCityMarketing.com
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Webster Bank’s 12th Annual Giving Tree (363 Main St) will benefit the Amazing Grace Food Pantry. For a list of accepted non-perishable donations needed, please contact Amy Glowka at 860-638-6906 or aglowka@websterbank.com. Drop off times are M-W 9 a.m to 3 p.m. and Th/F 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. On Saturdays, donations may be brought to Middlesex Chamber!
10:30 a.m. – 12 noon – ORNAMENT DECORATING WORKSHOP at Vinnie’s Jump & Jive (424 Main St), courtesy of Middletown Recreation & Community Services Dept. – Family members can decorate an ornament at NO CHARGE and take it home to put on the tree or use as a holiday decoration (as long as supplies last)!
11:30 a.m. – 12 noon – HOLIDAY STORY TIME – THE GRINCH will be at Wesleyan / RJ Julia Bookstore (413 Main St), where Santa Claus will read stories. At the end of the reading, there will be books for sale and a “Book Signing” by The Grinch…Bring your camera!.
12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. – the ORNAMENT DECORATING WORKSHOP at The Buttonwood Tree (605 Main Street) – courtesy of Middletown Recreation & Community Services Dept. – Family members can decorate an ornament at NO CHARGE and take it home to put on the tree or use as a holiday decoration (as long as supplies last)!
Time:
11:00am - 12:00pm
Location:
Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St, Guilford
Description:
Learn about different senses that animals possess and how they differ from your own. Meet a snake, owl, turtle, and more. Ages 4 and up.
Pre-register: 203-453-8282
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
11:00am - 3:00pm
Location:
White Memorial Conservation Center, 80 Whitehall Rd., Litchfield
Description:
Spend some quality time exploring one of the most magical areas on White Memorial property and tackle every pond. Pack a lunch and bring plenty of water. Sturdy footwear and rain gear are a must. We are conquering Five Ponds rain or shine. Meet at the trailhead at the junction of Route’s 63 and 61.
Donations appreciated.
Time:
11:00am - 1:00pm
Location:
Middlebury Public Library, 30 Crest Rd, Middlebury
Description:
Enjoy a movie with family and friends. Bring your own snacks.
Time:
11:00am - 12:00pm
Location:
Barnes & Noble, 235 Union St, Waterbury
Description:
Storytime perfect for the whole family! Enjoy a new story every Saturday with fun crafts and activities to follow!
**Check website for specific story**
Time:
1:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Location:
Avon Free Public Library, 281 Country Club Rd, Avon
Description:
Join us for a merry celebration of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Families with children ages 3 to 7 will be delighted by Debbie O'Carroll's amazing stage magic, silly comedy and creative audience participation. Sponsored by Friends of the Avon Library.
Time:
5:00pm - 8:00pm
Location:
TheaterWorks, 233 Pearl St., Hartford
Description:
Hartford’s pop-up, block party designed to get us feeling good about where we live, work, play. With local vendors, cozy bonfire, hot drinks by Sarah's Coffee House, cold and stiff drinks by Hog River Brewing Company, smores, food trucks, lawn games, and good times. Also,featuring musical guests DJ Connie Carmona and Tang Sauce. Keep warm and celebrate Hartford.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:00pm
Location:
Fearless Flyers Academy, 800 Flanders Rd., Mystic
Description:
Free performance and open house activities for spectators, no reservations or tickets are required. After the show, spectators can try flying trapeze, trampoline room, aerial fabrics/ribbons, lyra/hoop, and more. See if you have what it takes to become an aerialist or acrobat, all ages are welcome. Family-friendly, come enjoy a night of fun. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early, as doors will close at 6 p.m.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
1:00pm - 2:30pm
Location:
Route 12, Danielson
Description:
Parking and access area at the commuter lot across from St. James School on Route 12 in Danielson. From there, enjoy a family walk, ride, or scooter adventure along the Killingly River Trail and enjoy the crisp December air. Explore what lives and grows along the river trail in almost winter.
Children must be accompanied by an adult and helmets are required for anyone riding a bide or using a scooter.
Time:
1:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Location:
Greenwich Historical Society, 39 Strickland Rd., Cos Cob
Description:
Join us for a festive holiday evening when—only once a year—costumed interpreters lead “candlelight” tours through Bush-Holley House, Greenwich’s only Registered National Historic Landmark. In addition to your family-friendly walk through Bush-Holley House, there will be live music, hot chocolate, seasonal treats from Sweet Lisa’s, winter-themed crafts for kids and a special appearance by Santa Claus from 5:30–6:30 pm.
Tours are about 45 minutes long and focus on Christmas traditions as celebrated by the Bush family in the early nation period and later by the Holley family, who were residents in the early 1900s during the Cos Cob art colony era.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Location:
Easton Town Green, 1 Center Road, Easton
Description:
The Mishkan Isreal Day Camp will once again light a Menorah in celebration of the Chanukah holiday in Easton.
Time:
6:00pm
Location:
Tolland Town Green, 21 Tolland Green, Tolland
Description:
Visit the Tolland Town Green for warm latkes and dancing.
Time:
10:30am - 11:30am
Location:
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave, Canton
Description:
We are delighted to offer our popular Tuesday morning story time once again! Each week, we'll meet for stories, songs, a small snack, a short book-related movie led by Children's Librarian Heather Baker, and then finish off the fun with a special craft. Children ages 3 & up plus their families are always welcome! (Stuffed animal friends too!) We'll hold story time each and every Tuesday the library is open, weather permitting. If Canton Schools are closed for inclement weather, story time is cancelled. In November, we start with a special guest performance by Hannah and Garrett of Two Right Feet with their ""Seuss Bands Boom Bands" story time. All the other weeks of November, we will be celebrating S.T.E.A.M. programs with story times that include building & experiments!
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
Barrett Bookstore, 314 Heights Rd, Darien
Description:
Join us every Tuesday at 4:00 pm for Storytime!
Time:
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury
Description:
Bring a book you love or recently read to share with a friendly group of readers. Discuss genres and how to select your next book. Grades 3-5.
Pre-register: 860-658-7663
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:00pm
Location:
Ellington Arbor Park, 47 Main St., Ellington
Description:
Visit the Ellington Arbor Park for warm latkes and dancing
Time:
6:30pm - 8:00pm
Location:
Prosser Public Library, 1 Tunxis Ave, Bloomfield
Description:
Kids engage in hands-on activities, watch demos, participate in inquiry-based discussions, and more. They learn just how cool science can be! Ages 7 and up.
Pre-register: 860-243-9721
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
2:30pm - 3:15pm
Location:
Norwalk Public Library, 1 Belden Ave, Norwalk
Description:
Children ages 3-5 will have fun with books, songs, and activities as they build their early literacy skills.
More info: 203-899-2780
Time:
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
WAS hosts free Public Astronomy Nights every clear Wednesday evening (clear skies only) from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the Observatory at 182 Bayberry Lane in Westport. Trained volunteers offer guided tours of the night sky through the Society's telescopes. During the summer, near the solstice, we strongly recommend not arriving until it gets dark. To confirm if we'll be open, please check our website which will be updated by 4:30pm every Wednesday. Visitors may view the Moon, planets, stars, nebula and galaxies through the massive and recently upgraded 25 inch Obsession Dobsonian 'the largest telescope available for public use in the state of Connecticut ' or through WAS's 12 ˝ inch Newtonian housed under the observatory dome.
Location:
Cora J Belden Library, 33 Church St., Rocky Hill
Description:
Families can come in anytime the library is open and make a craft together. Stop by the Children's desk for the supplies and complete your project in our Program Room. For families with children ages 3 and up. No registration required.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
3:30pm - 4:30pm
Location:
Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St, Guilford
Description:
Decorate a mug, enjoy some hot chocolate, and make your own hot chocolate mix and chocolate-covered pretzels to take home. Grades 5 and 6.
Pre-register: 203-453-8282
Time:
4:00pm - 4:45pm
Location:
Windsor Public Library, 323 Broad Street, Windsor
Description:
Kids can come test, tinker, and create. Ages 5-11
More info: 860-285-1910
Time:
4:30pm - 5:15pm
Location:
Middlebury Public Library, 30 Crest Rd, Middlebury
Description:
Come play and experiment with our STEM station. For grades 3-5.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:30pm - 7:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Enjoy a sleepy story hour filled with rhymes, movement, and songs. Ages 5 and under with an adult.
More info: 203-488-1441, ext 323
Time:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a mini-maker project from our MakerLab! Every month we will feature a quick project or new piece of equipment to mess around with. The results may have you leaving with something to physically take home OR just the satisfaction that you were able to create a circuit, power on an Arduino or thread a sewing machine. The projects are easy, meant for all ages and 100% drop-in. It is just up to you to find out which floor we are featuring the project on and drop on by.
Registration for this table is not required – just come ready to tinker, play and create!
Time:
10:30am - 11:00am
Location:
Howard Whittemore Memorial Library, 243 Church St, Naugatuck
Description:
Storytime and more for all ages, perfect for the whole fam!!
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
3:00pm - 4:30pm
Location:
Cheshire Public Library, 104 Main St, Cheshire
Description:
Explore robotics, electronics, arts and crafts, food science, and more. Put things together, take things apart, play games, and have fun. Grades 7-12.
More info: 203-272-2245
Time:
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a mini-maker project from our MakerLab! Every month we will feature a quick project or new piece of equipment to mess around with. The results may have you leaving with something to physically take home OR just the satisfaction that you were able to create a circuit, power on an Arduino or thread a sewing machine. The projects are easy, meant for all ages and 100% drop-in. It is just up to you to find out which floor we are featuring the project on and drop on by.
Registration for this table is not required – just come ready to tinker, play and create!
Time:
10:00am - 10:45am
Location:
Norwalk Public Library, 1 Belden Ave, Norwalk
Description:
Families with children ages 5 and under can drop in to enjoy an interactive music class. 10-10:30 and 10:45-11:15 am
More info: 203-899-2780, ext 15131
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
11:00am - 1:00pm
Location:
Middlebury Public Library, 30 Crest Rd, Middlebury
Description:
Enjoy a movie with family and friends. Bring your own snacks.
Time:
11:00am - 12:00pm
Location:
Barnes & Noble, 235 Union St, Waterbury
Description:
Storytime perfect for the whole family! Enjoy a new story every Saturday with fun crafts and activities to follow!
**Check website for specific story**
Time:
12:00pm - 2:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Get in the holiday spirit and watch the movie Elf. Enjoy snacks, hot cocoa, and projection viewing. Rated PG.
More info: 203-488-1441
Time:
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Location:
McMahon Wintonbury Library, 1015 Blue Hills Ave, Bloomfield
Description:
Go on an adventure to the secret world inside your smartphone to Textopolis, a bustling city where all your favorite emojis live. Rated PG
More info: 860-242-0041
Time:
1:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
Wickham Park, 1329 West Middle Tpke., Manchester
Description:
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys, set in a log cabin with decorations and music, and a fire in the great stone fireplace.
Time:
4:00pm
Location:
The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts & Cultural Center, 605 Main Street, Middletown
Description:
Connecticut Heritage Productions (CHP) is proud to present Dylan Thomas’ holiday classic A Child’s Christmas in Wales. Peter Loffredo brings to life these sometimes amusing, sometimes touching memories of childhood in the early 1900s. Holiday music adds to the nostalgia with songs of the season played on The Buttonwood’s beautifully restored Steinway piano.
This series of warm childhood remembrances not only reflects the Victorian era in Wales, but speaks to the magic of holidays, to the eternal joys of family and friends, and to the human condition in all times. Dylan’s masterful poetic prose as well as his gorgeous use of the English language makes this a holiday show for the whole family. The performance is suitable for adults and children old enough to sit through a live performance. Each show is just under an hour, but can last in your memory forever.
Start a new family tradition!
Donation is by non-perishable food item for Amazing Grace Food Pantry.
Performances at 4 pm and 7 pm
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
9:00am - 5:30pm
Location:
Norwalk Public Library, 1 Belden Ave, Norwalk
Description:
Drop by this week and search for famous book characters throughout the library. Find and name them all to win a prize. Ages 5 and up.
More info: 203-899-2780, ext 15131
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:
Barrett Bookstore, 314 Heights Rd, Darien
Description:
Join us every Tuesday at 4:00 pm for Storytime!
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
9:00am - 5:30pm
Location:
Norwalk Public Library, 1 Belden Ave, Norwalk
Description:
Drop by this week and search for famous book characters throughout the library. Find and name them all to win a prize. Ages 5 and up.
More info: 203-899-2780, ext 15131
Time:
10:30am - 11:15am
Location:
Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury
Description:
This special storytime features turtles and frogs. Ages 3 and up with an adult.
Pre-register: 860-658-7663
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Location:
Windsor Public Library, 323 Broad Street, Windsor
Description:
Watch Vinny the extraordinary puppet that blows a snowstorm through his nose, a penguin line dance, and interactive songs, dances, and a puppet show.
Pre-register: 860-285-1914
Time:
2:00pm - 3:30pm
Location:
Prosser Public Library, 1 Tunxis Ave, Bloomfield
Description:
Celebrate the New Year! Warm up with Bubbleology followed by the annual bubble wrap stomp and make-your-own ice cream sundaes.
More info: 860-243-9721
Time:
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Location:
Farmington Library, 6 Monteith Drive, Farmington
Description:
If you like dinosaurs and bingo, then join in some dino fun. Ages 5 and up.
Pre-register: 860-673-6791
Time:
2:30pm
Location:
North Haven Memorial Library, 17 Elm St, North Haven
Description:
Explore simple science themes using child-friendly experiments. Kids will make predictions and test their ideas. Ages 6-10.
Pre-register: 203-239-5803
Time:
2:30pm - 3:15pm
Location:
Norwalk Public Library, 1 Belden Ave, Norwalk
Description:
Children ages 3-5 will have fun with books, songs, and activities as they build their early literacy skills.
More info: 203-899-2780
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
WAS hosts free Public Astronomy Nights every clear Wednesday evening (clear skies only) from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the Observatory at 182 Bayberry Lane in Westport. Trained volunteers offer guided tours of the night sky through the Society's telescopes. During the summer, near the solstice, we strongly recommend not arriving until it gets dark. To confirm if we'll be open, please check our website which will be updated by 4:30pm every Wednesday. Visitors may view the Moon, planets, stars, nebula and galaxies through the massive and recently upgraded 25 inch Obsession Dobsonian 'the largest telescope available for public use in the state of Connecticut ' or through WAS's 12 ˝ inch Newtonian housed under the observatory dome.
Location:
Cora J Belden Library, 33 Church St., Rocky Hill
Description:
Families can come in anytime the library is open and make a craft together. Stop by the Children's desk for the supplies and complete your project in our Program Room. For families with children ages 3 and up. No registration required.
Time:
9:00am - 5:30pm
Location:
Norwalk Public Library, 1 Belden Ave, Norwalk
Description:
Drop by this week and search for famous book characters throughout the library. Find and name them all to win a prize. Ages 5 and up.
More info: 203-899-2780, ext 15131
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
6:30pm - 7:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Enjoy a sleepy story hour filled with rhymes, movement, and songs. Ages 5 and under with an adult.
More info: 203-488-1441, ext 323
Time:
9:00am - 5:30pm
Location:
Norwalk Public Library, 1 Belden Ave, Norwalk
Description:
Drop by this week and search for famous book characters throughout the library. Find and name them all to win a prize. Ages 5 and up.
More info: 203-899-2780, ext 15131
Time:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a mini-maker project from our MakerLab! Every month we will feature a quick project or new piece of equipment to mess around with. The results may have you leaving with something to physically take home OR just the satisfaction that you were able to create a circuit, power on an Arduino or thread a sewing machine. The projects are easy, meant for all ages and 100% drop-in. It is just up to you to find out which floor we are featuring the project on and drop on by.
Registration for this table is not required – just come ready to tinker, play and create!
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Location:
Windsor Public Library, 323 Broad Street, Windsor
Description:
In this hands-on workshop, you get a chance to plan, build, and test tree house designs against the forces of nature. Grades K and up.
Pre-register: 860-285-1919
Time:
2:30pm
Location:
North Haven Memorial Library, 17 Elm St, North Haven
Description:
Experiment and build with Cubelets magnetic cubes and LEGOs to make a robot who can perform simple tasks. Ages 8-14.
Pre-register: 203-239-5803
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a mini-maker project from our MakerLab! Every month we will feature a quick project or new piece of equipment to mess around with. The results may have you leaving with something to physically take home OR just the satisfaction that you were able to create a circuit, power on an Arduino or thread a sewing machine. The projects are easy, meant for all ages and 100% drop-in. It is just up to you to find out which floor we are featuring the project on and drop on by.
Registration for this table is not required – just come ready to tinker, play and create!
Time:
10:00am - 11:30am
Location:
White Memorial Conservation Center, 80 Whitehall Rd., Litchfield
Description:
We love traditions! Enjoy a sensory-filled walk to the observation platform overlooking Bantam Lake and the Ice House ruins. Listen to the music of Butternut Brook, be amazed by a huge oak, one of a number of notable trees residing within this beautiful 4,010-acre wildlife sanctuary. Red winterberry shrubs may hold the remains of their red jeweled-fruit so coveted by winter foraging birds. Natures silence is alive with surprise and restoration. Experience the sense of peace found when walking in beauty with a delightful community of nature loving people (and perhaps a dog or two).
Time:
10:00am - 10:45am
Location:
Norwalk Public Library, 1 Belden Ave, Norwalk
Description:
Families with children ages 5 and under can drop in to enjoy an interactive music class. 10-10:30 and 10:45-11:15 am
More info: 203-899-2780, ext 15131
Time:
11:00am - 12:00pm
Location:
James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St, Branford
Description:
The NOON Year's Eve Party includes stories, music, movement, and activities like decorating a party hat, silly dance contest, and more. Countdown to noon with all the bells and whistles. Ages 5 and under.
Pre-register: 203-488-1441, ext 323
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
11:10am - 12:00pm
Location:
Farmington Library, 6 Monteith Drive, Farmington
Description:
Make masks and then celebrate noon with noise makers, dancing, and a bubble wrap stomp.
More info: 860-673-6791
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.
Time:
11:00am - 8:00pm
Location:
Bushnell Park, Jewel St., Hartford
Description:
The opening of the rink officially kicks off the holiday season in Hartford, so come and celebrate. Skate, catch a play or a concert, be amazed by art, enjoy a great meal and so much more. Other activities include free ice skating, free photos with Santa in his workshop at the Bushnell Park Carousel from noon-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through December 23, learn to skate lesson on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., and $1 carousel rides on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Time:
11:00am - 12:00pm
Location:
Norwalk Public Library, 1 Belden Ave, Norwalk
Description:
Features live music and a countdown to noon. Light refreshments served.
More info: 203-899-2780
Time:
2:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Downtown, Main St., Hartford
Description:
First Night is a celebration of the New Year through the arts. It is an alcohol free, family-friendly, public celebration that marks the passage from the old year to the new with art, ritual and festivity.
The day is a multicultural, artistically unique, with countless professional musicians, artists, performance groups and exhibits that inspire thousands of people of all ages to attend each year. It’s also an affordable way for everyone to ring in the New Year. The day includes two spectacular fireworks shows at 6 p.m. and midnight in Bushnell Park that can be seen throughout the city by thousands of residents and visitors.
Time:
5:00pm - 12:00am
Location:
Hubbard Park, 1000 West Main St., Meriden
Description:
Illumination of more than 350,000 twinkling, white lights. There are over 200 figures and buildings that are decorated with the lights in this spectacular display.