As the holiday season approaches, so does one of the most beloved traditions of the year – driving around town to marvel at the beautiful Christmas light displays. Connecticut is no stranger to breathtaking holiday lights, with cities and towns throughout the state boasting spectacular sparkling spectacles. Here are some of the top Christmas light displays in Connecticut to visit.
Lake Compounce Holiday Lights – Bristol
Lake Compounce amusement park totally transforms for the holiday season with over one million twinkling holiday lights. The Holiday Lights celebration at Lake Compounce features over 100 displays and activities for the whole family, including a 100-foot-tall Christmas tree and a giant tunnel of light. Visitors can also take a ride on holiday-themed attractions, enjoy holiday music and entertainment, and grab some hot cocoa and snacks from food stands throughout the park.
Fantasy of Lights – New Haven
For over 25 years, Fantasy of Lights has been a favorite holiday tradition for residents and visitors in Connecticut. Located at Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven, this display features over 60 animated displays and 100,000 LED lights. The two-mile drive-through display is open from November to early January and is fully accessible to visitors.
Festival of Silver Lights – Meriden
The Festival of Silver Lights takes place in Meriden’s Hubbard Park and transforms the park into a winter wonderland. The spectacular display features over 200,000 twinkling lights, with intricate light sculptures, cascading snowflakes, Santa and reindeer displays and more. Visitors can walk or drive through the display and enjoy food and refreshments at the warming station.
Festival of Trees & Traditions – Hartford
The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art in Hartford hosts the Festival of Trees & Traditions annually. The event features a winter wonderland of decorated trees, wreaths, and holiday displays. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts, holiday story time, and a gift boutique. The event takes place from November to December, so visitors can stop by for some holiday cheer throughout the season.
Holiday Light Fantasia – Hartford
Holiday Light Fantasia is another popular light display in Hartford, taking place in Goodwin Park. Over a million twinkling lights are used to create an animated wonderland of fantasy and fun. Visitors can also enjoy displays from some popular cultural institutions in the area, including the Hartford Stage, the Mark Twain House & Museum, and the Wadsworth Atheneum.
The Christmas House – Torrington
The Christmas House in Torrington is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the magic of Christmas lights. The house features over 70,000 lights as well as handmade figures and decorations. Visitors can walk through the yard and enjoy the displays, as well as browse the Christmas Village, complete with a train ride and petting zoo.
Final Thoughts
Connecticut is home to some of the most breathtaking holiday light displays in the region. From amusement parks to outdoor parks and even private residences, there is no shortage of magical twinkling lights to visit this holiday season. Be sure to check out these top Christmas light displays in Connecticut and bring some festive cheer to your winter season.