Reindeer, Lobster Trap Trees, And A Town Full Of Sparkle: Here’s What’s Happening In Connecticut This Weekend

CONNECTICUT — Thanksgiving leftovers will still be in the fridge, but Connecticut is already primed to shift into full-on holiday Beast Mode — and this weekend is absolutely packed with magic. From reindeer visits in Greenwich and dazzling parades in Putnam to sparkling strolls, free family activities, and millions of twinkling lights across Mystic and New Haven, there’s no shortage of seasonal cheer. Whether you’re ready to shop, sip, stroll, or simply bask in the glow, here’s your guide to what’s happening Nov. 28–30 across the Nutmeg State.

Running Nov. 28–Dec. 24, the 17th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival returns with live reindeer, Santa visits, photo ops, and a festive workshop experience. Families can watch the reindeer up close, stroll through Santa’s workshop, and enjoy holiday treats while exploring downtown Greenwich’s beautifully decorated storefronts. It’s pure Christmas nostalgia — and it lasts all month long.

Putnam goes big — really big — for its beloved Holiday Dazzle Light Parade, one of the most spectacular nighttime parades in New England. Dozens of glowing floats, marching bands, costumed characters, and thousands of lights illuminate downtown Putnam as the community officially kicks off the holiday season. Bring blankets, grab hot cocoa, and get ready for serious small-town charm wrapped in twinkle lights.

Beginning Nov. 29 and running Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 21, the Winterfair celebration transforms New Haven and Hartford Union Stations into a festive indoor/outdoor holiday marketplace. Enjoy artisan vendors, food stalls, activities, and themed weekends — all designed to bring holiday cheer to the Elm City and the world's Insurance Capital. Whether you’re checking off your gift list or just soaking in the festive atmosphere, it’s a great stop between museum visits and pizza runs.

Formerly known as the Kent Champagne Stroll, Kent’s Sip, Sparkle & Stroll returns Nov. 29 for an evening of boutique shopping, holiday lights, and sparkling beverages served at participating local businesses. Explore the charming village of Kent at your own pace, enjoy festive window displays, and pick up gifts while sipping bubbly. It’s one of Connecticut’s most elegant small-town holiday traditions.

Mystic’s Olde Mistick Village becomes a glowing wonderland Nov. 28 through Jan. 31 with the Holiday Lights Spectacular. Stroll the village’s winding pathways illuminated by more than half a million LED lights, explore shops decorated for the season, and enjoy live music or a warm drink near the fire pit. It’s one of Connecticut’s most photographed holiday attractions — and for good reason.

Just down the road, Mystic is stacking the holidays even higher with the 5th Annual Lobster Trap Tree, a towering sculpture built from hundreds of painted lobster traps. The structure lights up at night and has quickly become a must-see, albeit quirky, holiday destination. Stop by for photos, local shopping, and plenty of coastal charm.

On Nov. 28, The Judy Black Memorial Park & Gardens in Washington Depot hosts a free puppet show and mask-making activity, perfect for families looking for a relaxed, creative outing after Thanksgiving. Kids can enjoy an engaging performance and make their own take-home craft — a festive and free way to spend the afternoon.

Whether you're watching reindeer trot down Greenwich Avenue, snapping selfies under Mystic’s glowing lights, or cheering for illuminated floats in Putnam, Connecticut is bursting with holiday sparkle this weekend. Lace up your boots, charge your phone, and embrace the most magical, and most wonderful, time of the year.