12 Days Of Cheer In Canton: 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 Canton. 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 Canton 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. Check out the local lights right here in Canton.

Canton’s annual Holiday House Lights Contest brings out some of the most spirited displays in the Farmington Valley, and last year’s winners truly shine. Four standout homes earned top honors for creativity, tradition, spirit and crowd-favorite charm — but the real joy comes from driving through town and seeing every participant’s glowing handiwork. Start with must-see stops like 11 Sweetheart Mountain Road and 144 Cherry Brook Road, then explore side streets to discover new neighborhood gems. And since the contest highlights only a handful of homes, there’s always more festive magic waiting just around the corner.

2. Lace up your skates at the International Skating Center of Connecticut.

Just a few minutes from Canton, the International Skating Center of Connecticut in Simsbury offers an easy, festive winter outing on either its NHL or Olympic-sized rink. Public skating sessions run throughout the week and discounted online tickets make it even more tempting to glide under the bright arena lights. Skate rentals and walkers are available on a first-come, first-served basis and the on-site Sk8terZ Café makes warming up part of the fun. It’s a perfect way to spend a crisp December afternoon with family or friends.

3. Warm up with a holiday pour-over at Giv Coffee.

Step into the cozy roastery and café at Giv Coffee, where the smell of freshly roasted beans fills the air and seasonal drinks pair beautifully with housemade pastries. This mission-driven small business uses its craft to support communities both locally and globally, which makes every sip feel even more meaningful. Visitors can peek into the historic iron works building next door to see the roasting operation in action before grabbing a seat inside the welcoming café. Open Tuesday through Saturday, it’s a must-visit stop for a winter pick-me-up in Canton.

4. Tackle your holiday shopping at The Shops at Nod Brook.

Located along bustling Route 44, the Shops at Nod Brook offer a convenient mix of national brands and specialty retailers perfect for checking off your holiday gift list. Anchors like The Fresh Market, Marshalls and Michaels make it easy to find everything from groceries to décor, while the surrounding retail corridor features even more options just minutes away. With more than a million square feet of shopping nearby, you can bundle errands, browsing and lunch into one easy trip. It’s a simple way to get festive without leaving the Farmington Valley.

5. Experience a glowing winter wonderland at Glow Hartford.

From November 21 to December 23, the Connecticut Convention Center transforms into a world of immersive lights, interactive displays and seasonal magic during Glow Hartford. Visitors can enjoy illuminated gardens, a holiday market, the Glow-comotive train and even a free photo with Santa — all under sparkling indoor lights. This year introduces GlowQuest, a wand-based scavenger hunt included with every ticket, making the experience even more engaging for families. With themed adventures like “Santa’s Sleigh Adventure,” it’s one of the most enchanting holiday excursions within easy reach of Canton.

6. Enjoy a memorable seasonal dinner at Millwright’s.

Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply treating yourself, Millwright’s Restaurant offers a refined, cozy setting overlooking a picturesque waterfall. Known for farm-fresh, beautifully plated dishes, it’s one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Romantic Restaurants and a favorite for special winter nights out. Tuesdays feature a three-course prix fixe menu, making it a great option for a festive midweek outing. The warm tavern space and exceptional service round out an experience that feels tailor-made for December.

7. Get lost in the shelves at River Bend Bookshop.

A short drive from Canton, River Bend Bookshop brings indie-bookstore charm to the holiday season with its bright, inviting space and carefully curated selections. Known for author events, community outreach and its beloved book truck, the shop has earned recognition as one of Connecticut’s best independent bookstores. December is an ideal time to browse for gifts, pick up a new read or chat with the knowledgeable staff about winter favorites. It’s a warm, literary escape from the cold — and a perfect stop before a cozy night in.

8. Shop local makers at Winterfair in Hartford.

Held inside the historic Great Hall of Hartford Union Station, Winterfair runs Saturdays and Sundays from November 29 through December 21, showcasing more than 30 vendors each market day. Over 100 small and micro businesses participate, offering handmade gifts, curated goods and unique holiday finds you won’t get from major retailers. The festive indoor setting makes it an easy, weatherproof December outing. Whether you're browsing for stocking stuffers or something truly one-of-a-kind, Winterfair delivers big seasonal charm.

9. Treat yourself to exquisite pastries at Le Bánh Patisserie.

At Le Bánh Patisserie, Pastry Chef Kim Hoàng Wood blends Vietnamese flavors with classic French technique to create delicate desserts perfect for holiday indulgence. Using organic ingredients and fresh seasonal fruits, her pastries are beautifully balanced — not too sweet, but rich with texture and flavor. The patisserie also serves Vietnamese coffee and offers an afternoon tea experience, making it a lovely December treat. Every item feels like a small work of art crafted with care.

10. Find artisan-made gifts at Artisan’s Marketplace.

For more than 40 years, Artisan’s Marketplace has been Canton’s destination for handcrafted American goods, featuring work from over 400 artists in jewelry, glass, wood, pottery and more. The Victorian-style building adds to the experience with its stained glass, intricate woodwork and warm, old-world atmosphere perfect for holiday browsing. Whether you’re seeking a meaningful gift or something special for your home, the thoughtfully curated collection makes every visit feel inspiring. Complimentary gift wrapping and friendly service round out this beloved local tradition.

11. See “A Christmas Carol” at Hartford Stage.

Hartford Stage’s celebrated adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” runs now through December 28, bringing Scrooge’s iconic journey to life with theatrical magic and emotional depth. This long-standing regional tradition blends stunning visuals with heartfelt performances, making it a perfect December outing for families, couples or groups. You can explore content advisories or learn about the sensory-friendly performance on December 6 on the official event page. It’s one of Connecticut’s most cherished holiday arts experiences.

12. Sip seasonal wine at Brignole Vineyards.

Just a short drive from Canton, Brignole Vineyards in East Granby offers a scenic, family-friendly escape with wine flights, seasonal drinks and charcuterie boards inside its cozy tasting room. Open seven days a week, the vineyard provides sweeping views of the rural landscape, making it a peaceful place to unwind during the busy holiday season. Pets are welcome, and the welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to linger with loved ones. It’s an ideal spot for a winter afternoon getaway.

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