12 Days Of Cheer In Avon: Making This A December To Remember

The holiday season is officially here, and there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the magic in and around Avon. To help get you in the spirit, we’ve rounded up a dozen festive ideas you can enjoy throughout the month — each one a fun, joyful way to celebrate the season close to home.

From twinkling light displays and holiday markets to cozy treats, local shopping spots, winter activities and seasonal shows, these 12 picks highlight what makes Avon feel especially merry this time of year. Whether you check off one or all twelve, it’s all about slowing down, supporting local businesses and making memories.

1. Get swept up in a million twinkling lights at Glow Hartford.

If you're looking for a big, sparkling holiday outing, Glow Hartford transforms the Connecticut Convention Center into an immersive world of illuminated gardens, giant sculptures and interactive installations. Open Nov. 21 through Dec. 23, the festival includes a festive market, seasonal treats, live entertainment and even a Santa photo and ride on the “Glow-comotive” train. New this year is GlowQuest, a wand-based scavenger adventure that unlocks hidden surprises throughout the displays. Tickets are required and can be reserved here.

2. Experience the magic of ‘A Christmas Carol’ at Hartford Stage.

A cherished holiday tradition, Hartford Stage’s production of “A Christmas Carol” brings Scrooge’s journey to life with lavish staging and atmospheric effects. Running on select dates from Nov. 22 through Dec. 28, it’s a festive outing that feels both timeless and freshly reimagined. Families seeking a more relaxed environment can attend the sensory-friendly performance on Dec. 6, which is designed to be comfortable for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Tickets can be purchased online, and early booking is recommended for prime weekend slots.

3. Browse local makers and festive finds at Winterfair in Hartford.

Held inside the beautiful Great Hall at Hartford Union Station, Winterfair brings together more than 100 small and micro-businesses across eight market days. This indoor market features rotating vendors offering art, gifts, home goods, treats and handcrafted holiday décor and runs Saturdays and Sundays, Nov. 29 through Dec. 21. It’s a great spot to shop small and discover new local favorites while enjoying a warm, bustling holiday atmosphere.

4. Lace up your skates for a public skate session at the International Skating Center of Connecticut.

Just a quick drive from Avon, the ISCC in Simsbury offers convenient public skating hours on both NHL and Olympic-sized rinks—perfect for families, date nights or brushing up on your skating skills. Skates and on-ice walkers are available for rent, and online reservations come with a small discount. The center also features a full-service café, bar and pro shop, making it easy to warm up or gear up before you hit the ice.

5. Enjoy an inclusive and heartwarming café experience at BeanZ & Co.

This beloved Avon café on East Main Street serves breakfast dishes, sandwiches and fresh coffee in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, but what really sets it apart is its mission. BeanZ & Co. employs an inclusive workforce, creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Stop in for a cozy drink, a thoughtful meal and a reminder of what community is all about during the holiday season.

6. Treat yourself to an elevated winter meal at The North House.

Housed in the historic former Avon Old Farms Inn, The North House blends New England charm with modern culinary flair, serving refined comfort dishes crafted with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. From classics like Beef Wellington to creative chef-designed plates, it’s an inviting place to gather for a holiday celebration or a cozy night out. The Chabot family, who own and operate the restaurant, bring genuine hospitality to every table, making the experience feel personal and warm. Reservations are recommended during December, especially on weekend evenings.

7. Get your holiday shopping done in one stop at The Shops at Nod Brook.

Conveniently located along Route 44, The Shops at Nod Brook offer a mix of national retailers and locally beloved shops, from Marshalls and Michaels to The Fresh Market and more. The center sits within a vibrant retail corridor, making it easy to knock out gifting, decorating supplies and grocery runs all in one trip. With plenty of parking and quick access from Avon, Canton and Simsbury, it’s a go-to destination for efficient (and surprisingly enjoyable) December errands.

8. Warm up with seasonal dishes and community-minded dining at Breakaway Bistro.

Breakaway Bistro on West Main Street prides itself on crafting memorable meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, all served in a cozy, welcoming setting that feels perfect for winter. Their diverse menu offers something for everyone, whether you're planning a night out with friends or a casual holiday lunch. Friendly, attentive staff and beautifully presented dishes make it a standout in Avon’s dining scene.

9. Take a magical drive through over a million lights at Hebron Lions Lights in Motion.

Just a short trip from Avon, this award-winning drive-thru light show features over 350 installations, synchronized music and a route that stretches more than a mile. Open from Black Friday through New Year’s Eve, it’s a family-friendly experience that has become an annual tradition for many—perfect for a cozy night out with cocoa and holiday playlists. Tickets can be purchased online, with discounted pricing available before the Thanksgiving holiday. The Limitless Lights Pass is a good option for families who want to visit multiple times throughout the season.

10. Sip freshly roasted coffee inside a historic building.

A true Avon gem since 1985, The Coffee Trade roasts more than 80 global varieties of beans in-house, filling its Wast Main Street shop with some of the best aromas in town. Visitors can enjoy a perfectly brewed cup while browsing antiques, tea sets, mugs and locally sourced gifts. It’s the ideal stop during a chilly December morning or a break between holiday errands.

11. Sip wine and take in peaceful winter views at Brignole Vineyards.

Set in the rural landscape of East Granby, Brignole Vineyards offers a relaxed and inviting tasting room where guests can enjoy wine flights, seasonal drinks and charcuterie boards seven days a week. The family-owned atmosphere makes it a comfortable outing for groups, couples and even families with pets. During December, the property feels especially serene—a perfect backdrop for unwinding after a hectic holiday week. Check out their tasting room details to help you plan your visit.

12. Find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts at Artisan’s Marketplace.

Housed in a beautifully crafted Victorian-style building in nearby Plainville, Artisan’s Marketplace showcases fine American craft from more than 400 artisans. The shop’s curated mix of jewelry, glass, pottery, woodwork, home décor and personal accessories makes it a standout destination for meaningful, heirloom-quality gifts. With its warm staff, complimentary gift-wrapping, and thoughtfully designed displays, browsing here feels like stepping into a holiday storybook.

Stay warm, shop local and enjoy every twinkling moment — happy holidays, Avon!

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.