Carols, Gingerbread, And A Christmas Mystery: Here’s What’s Happening Across Connecticut T

CONNECTICUT — Connecticut is sliding into the heart of the holiday season, and this weekend is packed with festive fun for families, theater lovers, and anyone who enjoys a little seasonal magic. From glowing light displays and gingerbread workshops to classic Christmas theater and a whodunit with a holiday twist, events across the state are embracing every Noel nuance. Whether you’re planning an outing with kids or a cozy night out, here’s a look at what’s happening around Connecticut this weekend.

The shoreline continues to shine thanks to the 31st Annual Fantasy of Lights in New Haven, which runs nightly through Dec. 31. Set along Lighthouse Point Park, this beloved drive-through display features animated scenes, holiday music broadcast through your car radio, and thousands of twinkling lights reflected off Long Island Sound. The event supports Goodwill of Southern New England, making it a feel-good tradition for families looking to take a scenic nighttime drive.

In Middlefield, Lyman Orchards is busy all weekend with hands-on holiday fun. The Kids’ Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop, running through Dec. 21, invites young bakers to design and decorate their own edible creations using candy, icing, and plenty of imagination. It’s a popular seasonal activity that often becomes a family tradition. Also underway at the orchard is Holiday Magic at Lyman Orchards, featuring festive décor, seasonal treats, and activities that make the historic farm feel like a winter village.

For those who love classic holiday storytelling, A Christmas Carol, presented by the East Haddam Stage Company, is in its final weekend at the Russell Library in Middletown. Performed in the library’s historic Reading Room, the intimate production brings Charles Dickens’ timeless tale to life in a unique setting. It’s a last chance to catch this traditional favorite before it closes Dec. 21.

In West Hartford, theatergoers can experience a quieter, reflective holiday story with “All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914” at Playhouse on Park. Running through Dec. 21, the production tells the true story of World War I soldiers who laid down their arms on Christmas Eve to share songs and goodwill. The show blends music and history into a moving tribute to humanity during wartime.

Families looking for something lighter and musical can head to Milford, where “Welcome to Santa Claus, the Musical!” is being staged by Pantochino Productions through Dec. 21. Known for colorful sets and family-friendly humor, the show offers an upbeat take on the holiday season that’s especially appealing to younger audiences.

If you enjoy holiday fun with a twist, “The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year: Who Sleighed Santa?” offers a festive mystery experience running through Dec. 20. This interactive production at the Shore Line Trolley Museum in East Haven invites audiences to help solve a Christmas-themed crime, combining humor, suspense, and seasonal cheer. It’s a great option for adults or groups looking for something different from traditional holiday fare.

Book lovers will want to mark Saturday, Dec. 20, for the Holiday Book Blowout at Westbrook Outlets in Westbrook. Hosted by Connecticut Book Festivals, the event features discounted books, gift ideas for readers of all ages, and a chance to stock up on titles before the holidays. It’s an easy stop for last-minute shopping with a literary twist.

Altogether, this weekend offers a well-rounded mix of lights, theater, hands-on activities, and holiday shopping across Connecticut. Whether you’re driving through New Haven’s glowing shoreline, decorating gingerbread in Middlefield, or catching a final performance in Middletown, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season before the calendar fills up even more as Christmas approaches.