Christmas Markets Connecticut 2024: Best Holiday Shopping Spots

21) Shelton Christmas Tree Lighting & Market, Shelton

You should check out the Shelton Christmas Tree Lighting & Market. This annual event is a big deal in the community.

Head over to Veterans Memorial Park in Downtown Shelton. The tree lighting will happen at 7:30 PM, but you can get there early. There are activities from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, so there’s plenty to do.

Enjoy free hot cocoa while listening to community performances. You can also warm up by the bonfires while singing your favorite holiday songs.

The Holiday Market is another highlight. Local vendors set up shop at the Rotary Pavilion, offering unique gifts and treats. It’s a great place to find special holiday presents.

You may even run into Santa and Mrs. Claus. They often visit and add to the festive atmosphere.

This year marks the 10th annual celebration, and it promises to be a memorable event. Don’t miss out on the fun and holiday cheer.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Dec 1, 2023	Veterans Memorial Park, Shelton, CT	5:00 PM – 9:00 PM	Free Admission

22) Waterbury Holiday Craft Fair, Waterbury

The Waterbury Holiday Craft Fair is a must-see event for anyone in the Connecticut area during the holiday season. This fair offers a festive atmosphere full of creativity and holiday cheer.

You will find more than 300 vendors showcasing their crafts. From handmade ornaments to unique gifts, the wide variety of items makes it perfect for holiday shopping.

Kids will love this fair too. Santa will be there for photos and to spread holiday magic, creating great memories for families.

If you’re looking for a fun and festive outing, this event is an ideal stop. The joyful spirit and diverse offerings make it a highlight of the holiday season.

Event Details

Date	Address	Times	Prices
November 2-3, 2024	Waterbury, CT	Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 9am-5pm	Free admission

23) Stonington Holiday Stroll & Marketplace, Stonington

Stonington’s annual Holiday Stroll & Marketplace transforms the town into a winter wonderland. The event kicks off with a tree lighting ceremony, a local favorite. It attracts visitors from all over Connecticut.

As you wander through Water Street, closed for the event, you’ll find an array of charming stalls. The marketplace offers unique gifts from local artisans. Handcrafted jewelry, festive decorations, and homemade treats are popular items.

Music fills the air as carolers perform holiday classics. Street performers add to the festive atmosphere, making it a lively experience. You might also stumble upon Santa, greeting children and posing for photos.

The Holiday Stroll isn’t just about shopping. It’s about community. Local businesses stay open late, welcoming you with warm drinks and snacks. It’s a chance to catch up with friends and neighbors.

Don’t miss Cove Ledge’s Holiday Market in the back garden. It features six local artists and is open every Saturday from November 25 to December 16. This market adds an extra layer of fun to your visit.

Timeless and traditional, the Stonington Holiday Stroll & Marketplace is a must-visit holiday event. Its cozy, small-town charm is pure magic during the holiday season.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov 25 – Dec 16, 2023	Water Street, Stonington, CT	2 PM – 5 PM	Free
Dec 1, 2023	Cove Ledge Beer, Wine & Spirits, Stonington, CT	2 PM – 5 PM	Free

24) Guilford Holiday Fest, Guilford

You can experience the holiday spirit at the Guilford Holiday Fest in Guilford. This event is held at the historic Guilford Green, a charming spot for winter festivities. Local vendors set up shop to sell crafts, food, and unique gifts.

The fest features live music and performances, creating a lively atmosphere. Children can enjoy fun activities and meet Santa Claus. It’s a great place to find handmade ornaments, cozy winter wear, and other holiday treasures.

One of the highlights is the tree lighting ceremony, which brings the community together. Hot cocoa and festive treats are available to keep you warm. The Guilford Holiday Fest is a cozy, hometown celebration you shouldn’t miss.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
December 7-8, 2024	Guilford Green, Guilford, CT, 06437	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM	Free to attend

25) Norwich Winterfest & Christmas Market, Norwich

If you find yourself in Norwich during the holiday season, the Winterfest & Christmas Market is a must-visit. Located at the Norfolk Showground, this event promises plenty of festive cheer. Picture twinkling lights, delightful holiday music, and the mouthwatering aroma of seasonal treats.

This market runs from November 17, 2023, to January 3, 2024. During this period, you can explore various stalls offering handmade crafts, unique gifts, and delicious food. Whether you’re in the mood for mulled wine or hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, there’s something for everyone.

Apart from shopping, there’s a variety of entertainment. Kids will love the fun rides, and everyone can enjoy live performances. It’s a great place to make holiday memories with family and friends. Plan your visit to soak in the festive atmosphere and maybe even meet Santa Claus himself!

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov 17, 2023 – Jan 3, 2024	Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, Norwich, NR5 0TT	Thursday to Sunday: 11am – 7pm	Free entry, ride prices vary

26) Westport Holiday House Tour & Market, Westport

The Westport Holiday House Tour is a festive event you don’t want to miss. This event is organized by the Westport Historical Society and takes place in the beautiful town of Westport, Connecticut.

During the tour, you will get to see some of the most spectacular private homes in the area. These homes are decorated for the holidays, creating a magical atmosphere. The owners of these homes open their doors to give you an inside look at their stunning architecture and unique decorations.

After enjoying the house tour, you can head over to the accompanying Christmas Market. The market is filled with a variety of vendors offering handmade crafts, holiday decorations, and delicious treats. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and enjoy some holiday cheer.

The whole event usually lasts from late morning to early evening, giving you plenty of time to explore both the houses and the market. It’s a great way to spend a day with family or friends, soaking in the holiday spirit and discovering new inspirations for decorating your own home.

You can find more details about the event at the Westport Historical Society website.

Date	Address	Time	Price
December 7	25 Avery Place, Westport, CT	11 AM – 4 PM	$25 – $50

27) Wallingford Christmas Town Festival, Wallingford

Wallingford’s Christmas Town Festival is a must-see event, featuring a bustling market and exciting activities. The event occurs on December 3, 2023. It starts at 10 am with a fantastic Santa Dash happening at 11:30 am. This festival is perfect for families and friends looking to soak in holiday cheer.

You’ll find various stalls offering unique gifts and crafts. It’s a good opportunity to buy something special for your loved ones. The atmosphere is lively, with festive music and decorations everywhere. Don’t miss the tree lighting ceremony at 4:40 pm—a beautiful sight to end the day.

New this year is a dog show. Your furry friends can participate in categories such as waggiest tail and best dressed Christmas outfit. The dog show runs from 1:15 pm to 2 pm, and entry is free. It’s a fun way to include your pets in the festive spirit.

With so much to see and do, Wallingford Christmas Town Festival truly captures the essence of the holiday season. Plan your visit and enjoy a day full of festive delights.

Date	Address	Time	Price
December 3, 2023	Wallingford Town Center, Wallingford, CT	10 am – 5 pm	Free entry

28) Naugatuck Winter Wonderland, Naugatuck

You don’t want to miss the Naugatuck Winter Wonderland. It’s a festive event held in Naugatuck, Connecticut, that captures the magic of the holiday season. This fair will be on November 2-3, 2024.

With nearly 200 vendors, you can find a variety of handcrafted and commercial items. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or festive decorations, there’s something for everyone.

Kids will love the face painting and Santa’s presence, making it a great event for families. Food trucks offer tasty treats, so you don’t have to worry about getting hungry while you shop.

Admission is reasonable, making it an affordable outing. Adults pay $6, seniors over 65 pay $5, and kids 12 and under get in for free.

Event Information

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
November 2-3, 2024	Naugatuck, CT	9am-5pm both days	$6 for adults, $5 for seniors, free for kids under 12

29) Bristol’s Holiday on the Hill, Bristol

You don’t want to miss Bristol’s Holiday on the Hill. This event is perfect for getting you into the festive spirit. The decorations are beautiful, creating a cozy and joyful atmosphere.

With more than 35 stalls, there’s plenty to see and do. From artisanal crafts to delicious food, you’ll find the perfect holiday gifts for friends and family.

You’ll also find live entertainment. Santa and his elves make an appearance, which is always a hit with the kids. The Jäger Barn Bar offers warm drinks and live music to enjoy with friends.

Feel like booking a private space? The Iglus are available for a unique experience. It’s an excellent way to make special memories this holiday season.

Plan your visit and enjoy the magic Bristol’s Holiday on the Hill has to offer.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov 1, 2024 – Dec 23, 2024	Bristol City Centre	10am – 7pm	Free admission

30) Mystic Seaport’s Lantern Light Tours, Mystic

Mystic Seaport’s Lantern Light Tours offer a unique way to experience the holiday season. Picture yourself strolling through a historic village set in the 19th century. This 70-minute progressive play creates an immersive journey back to Christmas Eve of 1876.

Actors from Connecticut and neighboring states bring characters to life. The performance includes heartwarming stories and festive songs inside the museum’s historic buildings and ships.

The Lantern Light Tours are an engaging experience for all ages, making it a great holiday activity for families. You walk from scene to scene, guided only by the glow of lanterns, making it a magical evening.

Plan your visit wisely by checking the dates and times. It’s an evening event, adding to the authenticity of the experience by capturing the essence of an old-fashioned Christmas.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this New England tradition. It’s more than an event—it’s a walk through history.

Date	Address	Time	Prices
December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17	Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic, CT	5:00 PM – 8:00 PM	Adult (18+): $29, Senior (65+): $29, Youth (13-17): $24, Child (4-12): $24, Children up to 3: Free