The Ultimate Greater Hartford Holiday Lights & Family Fun Guide
Presented by Maddy Ceruti, Realtor
The holiday season is officially upon us, and there’s no better way to make memories than by bundling up, grabbing a hot cocoa, and soaking in the sparkle! Whether your family loves twinkling lights, festive train rides, or cozy neighborhood traditions, we’ve rounded up some of the best holiday happenings across Greater Hartford to make your season merry and bright.
Glow Gardens — Hartford
Dates: November 21 – December 23
Step into a magical wonderland at the Connecticut Convention Center! With more than a million lights, glowing sculptures, interactive displays, and a holiday market, Glow Gardens is a perfect indoor adventure for families of all ages.Tip: Go early in the season to beat the crowds and take advantage of weeknight ticket deals.
Magic of Lights — East Hartford
Dates: November 26 – January 3
Pile in the car, put on your favorite holiday playlist, and enjoy this dazzling drive-through light show at Rentschler Field. With animated LED displays, themed tunnels, and larger-than-life holiday scenes, it’s a crowd favorite for good reason!
Mom hack: Dress the kids in PJs and bring popcorn, bedtime-friendly holiday fun at its best.
Glastonbury Neighborhood Lights Driving Tour
Dates: Thanksgiving – New Year’s
This local favorite is the definition of small-town magic. Cruise through Glastonbury to spot the most festive homes decked out for the holidays. Keep an eye on neighborhood Facebook groups for an updated map, or make your own scavenger hunt list!
North Pole Express — Gray Granite Railroad at Cavanna Farm, Glastonbury
Dates: Begins Nov 28, open on Sat & Sun from 12-3 or private ride bookings
All aboard for a cozy ride to the North Pole! This charming holiday train experience brings classic Christmas magic to life with lights, Santa sightings, and plenty of family photo ops.
Winterfest & Tunnel of Lights — East Windsor
Dates: November 28 – December 30
Hosted by the Connecticut Trolley Museum, this beloved event lets families ride a trolley through a tunnel of lights, meet Santa, and enjoy holiday crafts. Bundle up, the ride is open-air and extra twinkly!
Lake Compounce Holiday Lights — Bristol
Dates: November 28 – December 28
Connecticut’s oldest amusement park transforms into a holiday spectacular with millions of lights, themed shows, and festive treats. There’s even a kiddie train, fire pits for s’mores, and visits with Santa himself!
🦞 Worth the Drive: Lobster Trap Tree & Mystic Seaport Holiday Magic
Feeling adventurous? Head to Stonington to see the iconic Lobster Trap Tree, then swing by Mystic Seaport for their charming old-fashioned holiday festivities. It’s a perfect weekend getaway that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie.
Stay tuned: We’ll be doing a deep-dive reel later this month featuring one of these incredible holiday experiences, filmed by our friend (and sponsor!) Maddy Ceruti so you can get a peek before you go.
Whether you’re sticking close to home or exploring a little further, there’s no shortage of ways to make this season magical. From our family to yours, happy holidays, Hartford! 💫
