Holiday Strolls and Tree Lighting Events in the Hartford Area

One of the best things about living in Connecticut is the small-town feel our communities work so hard to capture. This sentiment can especially be felt around the holidays when people come together. So even if you don't live in these towns in Hartford County, you are welcome and encouraged to celebrate the season at these events.  Check out our Holiday Guide and our list of Holiday Light Shows for even more tips on fun ways to celebrate the season.

Windsor Carol Sing
Saturday, November 30
Join others for an old fashioned carol-sing outside the Windsor Town Hall at 6 p.m. Singing is followed by hot chocolate, cider, and donuts. Songbooks provided.

275 Broad Street, Windsor, CT 06095

The Mayor's Tree Lighting and Carol Sing in Cromwell
Saturday, December 2
The Mayor of Cromwell cordially invites the public to attend this annual event. Beginning at 4:30 there will be caroling and then the tree lighting with Santa arriving at 5:30. Cromwell High School musicians will be playing and a donation of a non-perishable food item is requested.

41 West Street, Cromwell, CT 06416

Newington's Night of Lights
Saturday, December 2
This exciting day in Newington begins with in the Mortensen Community Center Gymnasium from 1pm-4pm. Kids can ride on awesome animatronic winter animals, like Rudolph! There will also be fun games, a clown, and a juggler on stilts! Then at 5pm, all are invited to Town Center where Santa will arrive in a fire truck parade. Guest speakers, entertainment, carols, and holiday treats will be plentiful before the tree is lit. Please bring a canned food item to benefit the food bank. 

Corner of Main Street and Cedar Street, Newington, CT 06111

Torchlight Parade at the Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk
Saturday, December 2
Meet in the Village Green at 3pm to enjoy complimentary hot chocolate from Peet's, and a givewaway for the kids! Say hello to Santa after the parade! This is a free event.

501 Evergreen Way, South Windsor, CT 06074

Third Annual Tree Lighting in Avon
Sunday, December 3
This is the second annual tree lighting for Avon.  Join the fun and make it part of your annual traditions! The tree is lit on the town green following a short program.  Begins at 6 pm.

60 West Main Street, Avon, CT 06001

Christmas in Collinsville 
Friday, December 8 - Saturday, December 9
Collinsville is a charming section of Canton that is especially fun to visit around the holidays. The two-day festival kicks off Friday night with a champagne walk (for adults) from 6 to 8:30 p.m., horse-drawn carriage rides, gallery of trees exhibit and more. The merriment continues on Saturday morning/afternoon with Santa, craft vendors, puppet shows and other family-friendly activities. Peruse the lovely shops and get some holiday gifts purchased. 

Main Street, Collinsville, CT 06019

Torchlight Parade and Tree Lighting in Windsor Locks
Saturday, December 9
The night begins with a festive parade running from West to Spring to Center to Church Streets. All organizations are encouraged to participate in marching! The parade ends at Town Hall, where Santa will be greeting children and listening to their wish lists. Entertainment and refreshments will be provided, and then at 7pm the town tree will be lit, while everyone ooh's and ahh's. 

50 Church Street, Windsor Locks, CT 06096

Festival of Trees and Carol Sing in Enfield
Thursday, December 14
At the Enfield Library, join others to carol and enjoy the gallery of handmade Christmas trees.Light refreshments will be served. Co-sponsored by the Enfield Culture and Arts Commission

104 Middle Road, Enfield, CT 06082

May your holiday season be merry and bright! 

Photo credit: T. Rotkiewicz

Originally published 11/14/14.