Create your ultimate holiday plan in Shelton! Our guide has all the top events and activities for the season. Whether you're a Shelton veteran or a rookie, this guide ensures you don't miss a moment of holiday magic.
One of the highlights this season is the charming Danbury Festival of Trees, where beautifully adorned trees create a festive atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Featuring unique holiday decorations and displays, Mystic Seaport transports you to a maritime winter wonderland filled with seasonal spirit. And the Holiday Carnival at Olde Mistick Village is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering delightful crafts and festive entertainment for the whole family. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Shelton
- Mystic Seaport (Mystic)
- Danbury Festival of Trees (Danbury)
- Olde Mistick Village (Mystic)
- Holiday Carnival at Olde Mistick Village (Mystic)
- Shelton Holiday Craft Festival
- Connecticut Trolley Museum (East Windsor)
- North Haven Winterfest (North Haven)
- Lake Compounce (Bristol)
- Holiday Wish Express - Stamford Town Center (Stamford)
- Holiday Train Rides - Railroad Museum of New England (Thomaston)
See these and even more events listed below!
Shelton Holiday Light Displays
Festival of Lights at Harvest Moon
What to Expect:
Illuminated forest with interactive light displays.
Description:
At Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard, the Festival of Lights transforms the orchard into an illuminated forest with over half a million brilliant lights, featuring whimsical creatures, light-changing orbs, thematic installations, and interactive light displays.
Where: New Milford | More Info: Festival of Lights at Harvest Moon
Lighthouse Point Park
What to Expect:
Dazzling holiday light display supporting community programs.
Description:
Lighthouse Point Park features a dazzling holiday light display, supporting community programs for individuals with disabilities. The event is open from 5 PM to 9 PM on Sundays through Thursdays and from 5 PM to 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Admission is $10 for cars and family vans, $25 for minibuses, and $50 for full-size buses.
Where: New Haven | More Info: Lighthouse Point Park
Shelton Holiday Markets and Shopping
Shelton Holiday Craft Festival
What to Expect:
Unique handmade holiday gifts by local artisans.
Description:
The Shelton Holiday Craft Festival, hosted by Artisans Alliance, will feature an array of artisans and crafters selling their original creations at the Hyatt House Hotel on December 7, 2024. The event will showcase a variety of handmade goods, making it an excellent destination for those seeking unique holiday gifts.
Where: Shelton | More Info: Shelton Holiday Craft Festival
Danbury Festival of Trees
What to Expect:
Decorated trees symbolizing resilience and triumph over cancer.
Description:
The 22nd Annual Festival of Trees at The Summit in Danbury is a signature holiday event celebrating local traditions. It features beautifully decorated trees, high-end raffles, boutique and quilter's corner gift shops, live entertainment, and children's activities.
Where: Danbury | More Info: Danbury Festival of Trees
Santas Elves Indoor Marketplace
What to Expect:
Local artisans selling handmade holiday items.
Description:
The Santa's Elves Indoor Marketplace at Meriden Mall features local crafters selling handmade goods and unique holiday gifts. The event spans six weekends, offering a variety of indoor booths with 8ft x 8ft spaces, including a 6ft table and two chairs, available for $75-$800 per space.
Where: Meriden | More Info: Santas Elves Indoor Marketplace
Bolton Winter Faire
What to Expect:
Local artisans and vendors selling handmade crafts.
Description:
The Bolton Winter Faire is a craft and vendor fair hosted by the Bolton Recreation Department, featuring local artisans and vendors selling handmade crafts and seasonal items. The event takes place at Bolton Center School on December 7, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Where: Bolton | More Info: Bolton Winter Faire
Middletown Holiday Fair and Silent Auction
What to Expect:
Unique blend of local crafts and silent auction items.
Description:
The Middletown Holiday Fair and Silent Auction at Church of the Holy Trinity features two floors of crafters, handmade goods, gift baskets, baked goods, Vermont cheeses, homemade cookies, and a large silent auction with items including gift certificates, local museum passes, and more.
Where: Middletown | More Info: Middletown Holiday Fair and Silent Auction
Holiday Market- New Canaan Nature Center
What to Expect:
Unique gifts and local vendors.
Description:
The Holiday Market at New Canaan Nature Center offers a variety of unique gifts, including jewelry, clothing, and candles. Local vendors like Beauty Counter, Robert Karl Art, and KatKrafts will be in attendance. School of Rock will provide holiday cheer with their music.
Where: New Canaan | More Info: Holiday Market- New Canaan Nature Center
Indigenous Craft Fair - Mystic Seaport Museum
What to Expect:
Celebrating Native American Heritage Month with unique, handmade crafts.
Description:
The Indigenous Craft Fair at Mystic Seaport Museum showcases hand-crafted products from regional tribes, including wampum jewelry, beaded accessories, paintings, and pottery. Visitors can also explore the Three Sisters Garden, listen to talks about Indigenous mariners, and enjoy Native American fusion food.
Where: Mystic | More Info: Indigenous Craft Fair - Mystic Seaport Museum
Holiday Pop-Up Market- Fairfield Museum and History Center
What to Expect:
Unique gifts from local artisans.
Description:
The 10th annual Holiday Pop-Up Market at the Fairfield Museum and History Center offers a variety of handmade gifts and seasonal items. This event is a great opportunity to find unique holiday presents while supporting local artisans.
Where: Fairfield | More Info: Holiday Pop-Up Market- Fairfield Museum and History Center
Holiday Boutique In The Barn - Keeler Tavern Museum
What to Expect:
Unique holiday shopping experience in a historic barn setting.
Description:
The Holiday Boutique In The Barn at Keeler Tavern Museum offers a variety of gifts and seasonal items in a historic setting, perfect for finding unique holiday treasures.
Where: Norwalk | More Info: Holiday Boutique In The Barn - Keeler Tavern Museum
A Very Gifty Christmas - Newtown
What to Expect:
Unique holiday market with local vendors and charity support.
Description:
A Very Gifty Christmas in Newtown is a holiday market featuring over 150 local vendors selling unique crafts, homemade goods, and holiday gifts. The event benefits the American Cancer Society and offers 10ft x 10ft spaces for vendors.
Where: Newtown | More Info: A Very Gifty Christmas - Newtown
Shelton Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Santa Express
What to Expect:
Seasonally decorated train with Santa visits and special gifts.
Description:
The Santa Express at the Railroad Museum of New England offers an afternoon train ride where parents and kids can visit Santa Claus and his elves. The train is decorated seasonally, and each child receives a special gift from Santa's toy bag. The event includes visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate, and Christmas carols.
Where: Thomaston | More Info: Santa Express
A Christmas Carol at The Legacy Theatre
What to Expect:
Guided self-reflection amidst the Christmas season.
Description:
Legacy Theatre presents a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, directed by Keely Baisden Knudsen. This timeless tale follows Ebenezer Scrooge as he undergoes a transformative journey of self-reflection during the Christmas season in 1800s England.
Where: Branford | More Info: A Christmas Carol at The Legacy Theatre
Indian Rock Nature Preserve
What to Expect:
Live music performances by an Eagles tribute band and solo acoustic artist.
Description:
Indian Rock Nature Preserve is an educational farm offering a serene environment for cultural experiences and community-building opportunities. The preserve features various programs and events, including concerts, environmental education, and interactive activities for all ages.
Where: Bristol | More Info: Indian Rock Nature Preserve
Milford Arts Council, The MAC
What to Expect:
Diverse arts programming in a historic train station setting.
Description:
The Milford Arts Council, The MAC, is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and presenting every discipline of the arts for all ages and demographics. It offers a variety of events including standup comedy, concerts, poetry open mic, and visual arts exhibits.
Where: Milford | More Info: Milford Arts Council, The MAC
Downtown Cabaret
What to Expect:
Award-winning children's theatre with a twist on classic tales.
Description:
Downtown Cabaret Theatre in Bridgeport, CT, offers a variety of shows including musicals, concerts, and comedy series. The theatre features both young audiences and main stage productions, providing quality entertainment for all ages.
Where: Bridgeport | More Info: Downtown Cabaret
Palace Theatre
What to Expect:
Heartwarming story of self-discovery and holiday spirit.
Description:
The Palace Theatre presents "Elf the Musical," a hilarious modern Christmas classic about Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa's bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This must-see Broadway holiday production features songs by Tony Award nominees and a book by Tony Award winners.
Where: Stamford | More Info: Palace Theatre
Legacy Theatre
What to Expect:
Affordable ticket options for multiple events.
Description:
Legacy Theatre is a vibrant cultural hub in Branford, CT, offering a variety of performances and events, including films, talkbacks, and family-friendly shows.
Where: Branford | More Info: Legacy Theatre
Palace Theater
What to Expect:
Diverse lineup of performances and educational programs.
Description:
The Palace Theatre in Stamford is a vibrant cultural hub dedicated to empowering youth through year-round workshops that nurture creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. It hosts a diverse range of events including comedy, music, dance, and special performances, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Where: Stamford | More Info: Palace Theater
Shelton Other Holiday Activities
North Haven Holiday Fair
What to Expect:
Meet Santa and enjoy activities for kids.
Description:
The North Haven Holiday Fair is a family-friendly event featuring Santa, activities for kids, vendor visits, and more. It's a day filled with fun for the whole family.
Where: North Haven | More Info: North Haven Holiday Fair
North Haven Winterfest
What to Expect:
Family-friendly activities with local vendors and Santa.
Description:
North Haven Winterfest features over 30 local craft vendors, face painting, free kids crafts and games, story time, food trucks, hayrides, and more. Meet Santa and take photos in a fun-filled event for the whole family.
Where: North Haven | More Info: North Haven Winterfest
Coventry Craft Show
What to Expect:
Showcase of handmade arts and crafts by local artisans.
Description:
The Coventry Craft Show is a 48th annual juried craft fair featuring handmade arts and crafts, food, and raffles, all benefiting Coventry Schools. Over 60 local artisans will showcase their creations, making it a rich assortment of artistic talent.
Where: Coventry | More Info: Coventry Craft Show
Holiday Carnival at Olde Mistick Village
What to Expect:
Santa's Workshop gift store with gifts priced at $5 or less.
Description:
Join us at Olde Mistick Village for a festive holiday celebration featuring carolers, a brass band playing holiday favorites, and Santa's special appearance. Santa's Workshop Children's Gift Store will be set up in the Meeting House, offering great gifts for children to buy for their family and friends.
Where: Mystic | More Info: Holiday Carnival at Olde Mistick Village
All Aboard the Snow Clipper
What to Expect:
Personalized gift-giving experience with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Description:
All aboard the Snow Clipper for a personalized gift-giving experience at the Danbury Railway Museum. Enjoy artifact displays, antique railroad cars, and a short train ride through the historic railyard. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies.
Where: Danbury | More Info: All Aboard the Snow Clipper
Holiday Train Rides - Railroad Museum of New England
What to Expect:
Historic train rides with festive decorations.
Description:
Embark on a festive journey through the Railroad Museum of New England's holiday train rides, featuring scenic routes and historic locomotives.
Where: Thomaston | More Info: Holiday Train Rides - Railroad Museum of New England
Holiday Wish Express - Stamford Town Center
What to Expect:
Virtual train ride to the North Pole with interactive themed rooms.
Description:
Holiday Wish Express at Stamford Town Center offers an immersive holiday experience with a virtual train ride to the North Pole, interactive themed rooms, and delightful surprises. Explore over 20,000 square feet of awe-inspiring Christmas fun, featuring memorable characters and interactive experiences that bring the season's magic to life.
Where: Stamford | More Info: Holiday Wish Express - Stamford Town Center
Santa Made Me Do It 5K - Bethlehem
What to Expect:
Unique combination of running events and festive atmosphere.
Description:
The Santa Made Me Do It 5K is a festive event featuring a 5K road race, 2-mile walk, and a free kids fun run in Bethlehem, CT. It is organized by The First Mile and held in conjunction with the annual Christmastown Festival. The race starts at 10:00 AM EST, with packet pickup and registration beginning at 8:30 AM EST at the Town Green in front of Memorial Hall.
Where: Bethlehem | More Info: Santa Made Me Do It 5K - Bethlehem
Black Friday Hike - Flanders Nature Center
What to Expect:
Unique blend of nature exploration and seasonal scenery.
Description:
Join us for the Black Friday Hike at Flanders Nature Center, where you can explore the beautiful trails and enjoy the crisp autumn air amidst the preserved natural landscapes.
Where: Woodbury | More Info: Black Friday Hike - Flanders Nature Center
Thanksgiving Weekend Waddle - New Canaan Nature Center
What to Expect:
Interactive nature hike with a behind-the-scenes tour.
Description:
Join the New Canaan Nature Center for a healthy, invigorating Trail Trek on Thanksgiving Weekend. Explore nature's treasures like apple trees, maple trees, and honey bees while learning about the busy autumn wildlife. After the hike, enjoy a FREE behind-the-scenes tour of the Animal Care facilities and Birds Prey Exhibit.
Where: New Canaan | More Info: Thanksgiving Weekend Waddle - New Canaan Nature Center
Olde Mistick Village
What to Expect:
Pet-friendly open-air shopping village with diverse shops and eateries.
Description:
Olde Mistick Village is a charming open-air village featuring over 40 unique shops and eateries, offering a variety of food, custom gifts, and pet-friendly atmosphere. The village is open daily with extended hours for restaurants and luxury cinemas.
Where: Mystic | More Info: Olde Mistick Village
Pratt & Whitney Stadium
What to Expect:
Luxurious game-day experience with spacious seating and prime sightlines.
Description:
Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field is a premier venue for UConn Football and various events, offering luxurious club seats and executive suites with elegant surroundings and prime sightlines of the field.
Where: East Hartford | More Info: Pratt & Whitney Stadium
Mystic Seaport
What to Expect:
Showcase of over 100 traditional and classic wooden boats.
Description:
The Mystic Seaport hosts the WoodenBoat Show, featuring over 100 traditional and classic wooden boats, including handcrafted kayaks, mahogany runabouts, and schooners. The event offers skills demonstrations, a speaker series, and an exhibit showcasing self-built boats. Museum Members attend for free, and parking is available on-site and off-site with shuttle services.
Where: Mystic | More Info: Mystic Seaport
Lake Compounce
What to Expect:
Family-friendly Halloween and holiday celebrations with thrilling rides and attractions.
Description:
Lake Compounce offers a variety of seasonal events, including Phantom Fall Fest with new scares, Holiday Lights featuring dazzling light displays, and Kids Fest with exclusive kids shows and themed food.
Where: Bristol | More Info: Lake Compounce
The Wood Memorial Library & Museum
What to Expect:
Historic venue blending history, nature, and arts.
Description:
The Wood Memorial Library & Museum is a historic venue where history, nature, and arts come alive, fostering a vibrant community. It offers a variety of programs and exhibits that celebrate the town's heritage and cultural diversity.
Where: South Windsor | More Info: The Wood Memorial Library & Museum
Lyman Orchards
What to Expect:
Interactive haunted attraction with local CT breweries.
Description:
Lyman Orchards offers a variety of activities including horse-drawn wagon rides, petting farms, and interactive haunted attractions. Visitors can enjoy beer tastings in the corn maze, live music at the pub, and participate in trivia nights. The orchard also hosts special events like the Putt Fore Pink Breast Cancer Memorial tournament.
Where: Middlefield | More Info: Lyman Orchards
Fairfield Museum and Historical Society
What to Expect:
Unique blend of historical exhibits and community programs.
Description:
The Fairfield Museum and History Center is a hub for exploring 375 years of regional history through engaging exhibitions, educational activities, and community events. It offers a wide array of programs and exhibitions that bring the past to life, making it a valuable resource for both locals and visitors.
Where: Fairfield | More Info: Fairfield Museum and Historical Society
The Shore Line Trolley Museum
What to Expect:
Historic trolley rides through scenic tracks.
Description:
The Shore Line Trolley Museum is a National Historic District featuring the oldest continuously running suburban trolley line in the USA. It offers family-friendly activities, unique events, and historic trolley rides. Members enjoy unlimited free admission, exclusive events, and discounts on private events and museum store items. The museum preserves transportation history and offers customizable event packages for weddings, birthdays, and corporate gatherings.
Where: East Haven | More Info: The Shore Line Trolley Museum
Connecticut Trolley Museum
What to Expect:
Interactive exhibits and historic trolley rides.
Description:
The Connecticut Trolley Museum is a historic site showcasing over 70 pieces of trolley and railroading history. Visitors can enjoy a 20-30 minute ride on a restored vintage trolley car, explore exhibits featuring historic trolleys and fire trucks, and participate in various activities like crafting stations and scavenger hunts.
Where: East Windsor | More Info: Connecticut Trolley Museum
Bradley Mountain Farm
What to Expect:
Interactive goat activities and handmade soap workshops.
Description:
Bradley Mountain Farm offers a variety of activities including goat yoga, soap making workshops, and farm tours. The farm is open for private parties, public events, and member nights, providing a unique and memorable experience for all visitors.
Where: Southington | More Info: Bradley Mountain Farm
Flamig Farm
What to Expect:
Interactive farm experiences with animals and seasonal activities.
Description:
Flamig Farm in West Simsbury, CT, offers a variety of family-friendly activities including a petting zoo, pony rides, tractor hayrides, and seasonal events. The farm is home to the big backwards EGGS sign and provides a range of experiences from birthday parties to visits with Santa.
Where: West Simsbury | More Info: Flamig Farm
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Milford (7 miles)
- Trumbull (8 miles)
- New Haven (9 miles)
- Stratford (9 miles)
- Bridgeport (11 miles)
- Hamden (12 miles)
- Naugatuck (12 miles)
- East Haven (12 miles)
- North Haven (13 miles)
- Branford (15 miles)
- Fairfield (15 miles)
- Cheshire (16 miles)
- Waterbury (17 miles)
- Westport (18 miles)
- Danbury (19 miles)
- Meriden (21 miles)
- Guilford (21 miles)
- East Norwalk (22 miles)
- Darien (26 miles)
- Bristol (26 miles)
- North Stamford (26 miles)
- Middletown (29 miles)
- New Britain (29 miles)
- Stamford (29 miles)
- Farmington (31 miles)
- Coram (31 miles)
- Centereach (32 miles)
- Smithtown (32 miles)
- Newington (33 miles)
- East Northport (33 miles)
- Lake Ronkonkoma (33 miles)
- Torrington (33 miles)
- Commack (34 miles)
- Hauppauge (34 miles)
- West Torrington (35 miles)
- Medford (35 miles)
- Holbrook (35 miles)
- Wethersfield (36 miles)
- West Hartford (36 miles)
- Huntington Station (36 miles)
- Central Islip (37 miles)
- Port Chester (37 miles)
- Glastonbury (37 miles)
- Hartford (37 miles)
- Shirley (37 miles)
- Dix Hills (38 miles)
- Brentwood (38 miles)
- East Patchogue (38 miles)
- Bloomfield (40 miles)
- White Plains (40 miles)
- Harrison (40 miles)
- Deer Park (40 miles)
- East Hartford (41 miles)
- Ossining (41 miles)
- Bay Shore (42 miles)
- Plainview (42 miles)
- Glen Cove (42 miles)
- South Windsor (43 miles)
- Peekskill (43 miles)
- Manchester (43 miles)
- West Babylon (44 miles)
- West Islip (44 miles)
- Greenburgh (44 miles)
- Windsor (44 miles)
- Hicksville (44 miles)