Balloons, Lights, Toy Trains, And Christmas Magic: Here’s What’s Happening Across Connecticut This Weekend

CONNECTICUT — Connecticut is sliding into the holiday season big this weekend, with giant helium balloons, glittering lights, cookie-decorating fun, and enough festive cheer to warm even the chilliest November day. From Stamford to Centerbrook, from Hamden craft halls to New Haven’s glowing shoreline, Nov. 21–23 brings a full lineup of family fun, early-season sparkle, and classic Nutmeg State traditions. Here’s your guide to what’s happening across Connecticut this weekend — and where to find it.

One of Connecticut’s most iconic pre-Thanksgiving events returns Sunday, Nov. 23, as the Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular fills the streets with towering helium balloons, marching bands, dance troupes, cheer squads, and costumed characters. Think Macy’s Parade energy, Nutmeg State flavor. Crowds line the downtown route early, so grab a spot and get ready for larger-than-life favorites floating high above the city.

On Nov. 21–22, Hamden hosts the 47th Annual Holly Berry Festival, a beloved holiday craft tradition. Local artisans fill the hall with handmade ornaments, wreaths, quilts, jewelry, woodcrafts, and gifts you won’t find online. Shoppers can also enjoy raffles, baked goods, and the famous Holly Berry tea room — a cozy escape on a chilly day.

The shoreline begins to glow this weekend as New Haven’s Fantasy of Lights, a drive-through holiday spectacular, kicks off its 31st season on Nov. 21. Set along Lighthouse Point Park, this glittering mile-long route features animated light displays, festive music, and 100,000+ bulbs illuminating the waterfront. Best of all, proceeds support Goodwill of Southern New England.

Train lovers (and who isn't…?), head to Essex for the 32nd Annual Train Show at the Connecticut River Museum, running Nov. 21 through Feb. 1. This sprawling holiday layout features model trains zipping through tiny villages, trestle bridges, snowy mountains, and river scenes inspired by Connecticut’s past. Kids can operate hands-on components, and adults will appreciate the craftsmanship.

Kicking off Nov. 22, The Family Christmas Experience at Star Hill Family Farm in Portland is straight out of a Hallmark movie: wagon rides, Christmas characters, interactive story trails, holiday crafts, festive treats, and an illuminated forest walk. It runs weekends through Dec. 21 and is ideal for families looking to start a new tradition.

The Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center in New Haven is launching its free holiday exhibition, The Spirit of Christmas, running now through Feb. 1. The display highlights international Christmas traditions, historical artifacts, nativity art, and seasonal storytelling — perfect for anyone who wants a peaceful, reflective start to the holiday season.

In Centerbrook, Spectrum Art Gallery’s Art of Dreaming Holiday Show opens Nov. 21 and runs through Jan. 10. This imaginative seasonal exhibition features paintings, sculpture, mixed media, ornaments, and handmade jewelry from local and regional artists. It’s a great stop for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.

From glowing lights in New Haven to holiday markets in Hamden, train displays in Essex, and a balloon-filled parade in Stamford, Connecticut is already in full festive mode. Bundle up, grab your travel mug of hot cocoa, and enjoy this early taste of the holiday season.