Holiday Lights, Local Events & Seasonal Fun
Photo by Michael Solo
November is one of those special times of year in Connecticut when autumn begins giving way to the holiday season. The last of the fall foliage is fading, the temperatures are getting cooler, and towns across the state are starting to light up with festive celebrations.
Whether you're looking for a family-friendly outing, a fun date night, or simply an excuse to explore somewhere new, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season.
At Fiorelli Realty, we believe loving where you live goes beyond finding the right home. It's also about discovering the local experiences, small businesses, and community traditions that make Connecticut such a wonderful place to call home.
If you're wondering what to do in Connecticut this November, here are three seasonal events worth adding to your calendar.
1. See the Holiday Lights at Olde Mistick Village
(November 20, 2026 – January 31, 2027 | Mystic, Connecticut)
If holiday lights are your thing, Olde Mistick Village is a wonderful place to start.
The Holiday Lights Spectacular returns on November 20, transforming the village into a festive destination with more than half a million lights decorating its shops and restaurants.
Visitors can stroll through the illuminated village, browse local shops, enjoy a meal, and take in the holiday atmosphere. It's also a great opportunity to get a little holiday shopping done while supporting local merchants.
Even better, admission and parking are free, and the lights turn on every evening at 5 PM.
Why we love it: It combines holiday magic with the charm of a local shopping village. You can make an entire evening out of it without needing a big itinerary.
Plan your visit: Olde Mistick Village Holiday Lights Spectacular
2. Experience Glow Hartford
(November 20 – December 23, 2026 | Hartford, Connecticut)
Looking for something a little more immersive? Glow Hartford is bringing its holiday light festival and market back to the Connecticut Convention Center.
Expect interactive light gardens, illuminated displays, seasonal food and drinks, family-friendly activities, and a festive holiday market. There are also opportunities for a free photo with Santa and a ride on the event's trackless Glow-comotive train.
Whether you're bringing the kids, meeting up with friends, or looking for a festive evening out, this is a fun way to get into the holiday spirit.
Why we love it: It's more than just a light display. You can enjoy the decorations, explore the market, grab something seasonal to eat, and make an evening of it.
A little planning tip: Glow Hartford uses timed entry tickets, so check the event calendar and reserve your preferred time before heading out.
Plan your visit: Glow Hartford
3. Celebrate Trees in the Rigging in Essex
(November 29, 2026 | Essex, Connecticut)
For a little New England holiday charm, head to Essex for the annual Trees in the Rigging celebration at the Connecticut River Museum.
This beloved local tradition brings together the community for a day of holiday festivities along the Connecticut River. Visitors can explore the museum, enjoy seasonal activities, and see the creative illuminated displays created by local boaters.
The day's schedule includes museum activities beginning at 10 AM, a lantern-lit street parade at 4:30 PM, and the illuminated boat parade at 5 PM.
It's a unique way to welcome the holiday season and experience one of Connecticut's picturesque riverfront communities.
Why we love it: There's something special about seeing local traditions bring a community together. The combination of the street parade, decorated boats, and waterfront setting makes this a memorable seasonal outing.
Plan your visit: Trees in the Rigging at the Connecticut River Museum
4. Enjoy Quarry Walk's Annual Sip & Stroll
(December 3, 2026 | 5:00 PM–8:00 PM | Oxford, Connecticut)
We're starting close to home with a festive evening right here in Oxford!
Quarry Walk's Annual Sip & Stroll is bringing holiday cheer to 300 Oxford Road on Thursday, December 3. The evening promises holiday lights, live music, festive shopping, dining, wine, and old-fashioned horse-drawn wagon rides through Quarry Walk.
The Connecticut Yuletide Carolers will also perform from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, bringing the sounds and spirit of the season to the Green.
Whether you're meeting friends, enjoying dinner, browsing the shops, or taking a nostalgic wagon ride, it's a lovely opportunity to experience the holiday atmosphere while supporting local businesses.
Why we love it: It's a chance to enjoy a festive community gathering right here in Oxford. We especially love seeing local businesses and neighbors come together to celebrate the season.
Event details: Thursday, December 3, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Location: Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Road, Oxford, CT 06478.
Plan your visit: Quarry Walk's Annual Sip & Stroll
Make the Most of November in Connecticut
Photo by David Kanigan
You don't need a big vacation or an elaborate plan to enjoy the season. Sometimes, it's as simple as taking an evening drive to see holiday lights, visiting a local market, or exploring a Connecticut town you've never spent much time in.
And while you're out enjoying these events, consider stopping by a locally owned restaurant, browsing a neighborhood shop, or supporting a small business along the way. Those little choices help keep our communities vibrant and give us even more reasons to appreciate where we live.
As the holiday season approaches, take some time to slow down, get out, and enjoy everything Connecticut has to offer.
After all, home isn't just the place you return to at the end of the day. It's the community you're part of.
From all of us at Fiorelli Realty, we hope you have a wonderful November and a happy start to the holiday season!
Thinking about making Connecticut your next home?
Whether you're relocating, buying your first home, or considering a move within the area, the team at Fiorelli Realty is here to help you feel right at home.