10 Winter Festivals And Events Connecticut Residents Shouldn’t Miss

We’ve rounded up 10 other winter events that bring people together and create warmth against the cold. Before we get to them, a reminder:

If you’re planning a winter event, feature it, so nearby readers see it all across Patch — including in roundups like this!

Winter Outdoor & Community Festivals

1. Stamford Fire & Ice Winter Festival – Ice sculpting demos, fire pits, live music, vendors, and outdoor fun in Columbus Park on January 24. A festive winter highlight! Read more here.
2. 20th Annual Winter Festival (Burr Pond State Park) – Outdoor winter activities like ice fishing, marshmallow roasting, hikes, Search and Rescue demonstrations, ice sculptures, animals, and bonfires on February 7 (snow date Feb 8). Read more here.
3. Wilton Winter Carnival (“Fire and Ice”) – A themed carnival with ice/wood carving, kids’ games, food trucks, scavenger hunts, and more on February 1 (noon–3 PM). Read more here.
4. Wintertide at Mystic Seaport Museum – A magical, multi-day Presidents’ Day weekend event (typically Feb 15–17) with ice art, reindeer visits, planetarium shows, crafts, and family activities. Read more here.
5. Wethersfield Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides – Free seasonal carriage rides around Broad Street Green on weekends including Feb 14–15 for a classic winter experience. Read more here.

🌷 Shows, Art & Indoor Festivals

1. 44th Connecticut Flower & Garden Show – Beat winter blues with floral displays, expert seminars, landscape exhibits, and vendors at the Connecticut Convention Center from Feb 19–22. Read more here.
2. Connecticut Home & Garden / Southeastern CT Home & Garden Shows – Craft shows and gardening displays around mid- to late February (various CT venues). Read more here.

🎭 Arts, Culture & Community Entertainment

1. Winter Theater & Arts Series (Mystic & Surrounding Towns) – Local theatrical performances, improv shows, and gallery exhibits throughout Jan–Mar.
2. Local Food & Chowder Events (Olde Mistick Village) – Annual Chowder Cook-Off in Mystic (typically late February) featuring dozens of chowders and local eateries — a winter foodie favorite. Read more here.
3. Jumpfest Ski & Winter Sports Festival (Salisbury / Satre Hill) – A classic CT winter tradition with ski jumping, human dog sled races, bonfires, and more during February (exact dates TBD — check local listings). Read more here.