Best Christmas Light Displays in Connecticut

One of the earmarks of the beginning of the holiday season — besides retailer marketing, of course — is the presence of Christmas lights. As folks start to decorate their trees and place icicle lights on the outside of their homes, there is an air of excitement as December 25th approaches. This year, capitalize on that energy and make plans to head to a local holiday light display with family and friends. There are plenty in the state. Gather everyone, grab your smartphone for photos, turn up the holiday tunes, and get ready to see some of the best Christmas light displays in Connecticut! 

Glow Hartford

Christmas is a busy time of year, and although you may want to attend many events, going to one where there’s a lot you can do can maximize your time. That’s precisely what Glow Hartford strives to do! Get holiday shopping done at the artisan and vendor market. Hear live entertainment from the stage. Grab a festive bite to eat, and drink seasonal beverages while you are on-site. Although you can do all those things, the light show is the main attraction. Thousands of lights will dazzle your eyes and bring out your inner child. See larger-than-life displays, and take photos of the different attractions. It’s an event for the entire family to enjoy! 

Tunnel of Lights at the Connecticut Trolley Museum

The annual event at the Connecticut Trolley Museum has been a family favorite for over 40 years. Tunnel of Lights features over 15,000 lights both inside and out. The event also offers a trolley ride through a lit-up tunnel as everyone enjoys and sings Christmas carols. There are also several 3-dimensional holiday displays to look at throughout the event. This display is one of the best family light shows this season!

Source: https://www.facebook.com/trolleymuseum/photos/10158110514752064

Niantic Light Parade

Christmas and parades go hand in hand. So fill a thermos with hot cocoa, grab a few blankets, and dress warmly to attend the Niantic Light Parade this year. The parade traverses downtown and lasts about two hours, so be prepared to get cozy and watch the floats pass by. Niantic has been hosting this event for over 30 years, so make it a part of your annual tradition. You can even shop at local boutiques and eat at neighborhood restaurants before or after the parade.

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/PToyRjmIxfU

Fantasy of Lights

Want to view lights while supporting a cause? Then head to Fantasy of Lights. All ticket proceeds support Goodwill of Southern New England so they can continue their programming. Prices range from $10 for a family car to $50 for a full-sized bus, so take the whole gang if you’d like. It’s been going on for almost 30 years, and they also have volunteer opportunities. It’s the ideal way to get involved if you’re looking for a way to donate time to a cause this holiday season.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/goodwillsne/photos/5232141900147850

Holiday Lights at Lake Compounce

Enjoy thousands of lights in a gorgeous setting during Holiday Lights at Lake Compounce. This festive event runs from mid-November through the end of December and is brimming with holiday fun. Head to see lights during one of their many events, such as an ugly sweater contest, a day for pets, and a gingerbread-themed weekend. You can purchase a season pass and go multiple times throughout the weeks to maximize your holiday fun. 

Source: https://www.lakecompounce.com/sites/lakecompounce.com/files/pcore_tiers/DRCJ34yW4AEVd-7.jpg