Ellington Winterfest Weekend Brings Holiday Magic to Every Corner of Town

Ellington is set to shine bright as Winterfest weekend brings music, magic, shopping, and community cheer to every corner of town. Festivities begin Friday, December 5th at the Ellington Senior Center with the Ellington Singers Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. Residents of all ages are invited to enjoy a spirited concert and singalong of beloved holiday classics.

The celebration continues on Saturday, December 6th, starting with the always-popular Winterfest Farmers Market from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Ellington High School, where more than 40 vendors will offer farm products, baked goods, specialty foods, and artisan wares—perfect for holiday gifting and seasonal cooking.

The town green will come alive in the afternoon with Tree Lighting festivities from 4–5 p.m. Mrs. Claus, the Winterfest Committee and special guests will welcome visitors, followed by musical performances from Tim Adams and the Center School Chorus. Santa arrives around 4:20 p.m. to greet families before joining Mrs. Claus to light the trees at approximately 4:45. The annual Torch Light Parade will brighten Main Street at 5:15 p.m.

The Hall Memorial Library will host a full day of holiday fun, beginning with a Holiday Ornament Workshop from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. for children ages 4–12. Evening activities from 5–7 p.m. include refreshments, crafts, games, letters to Santa, and whimsical photos inside the library’s snow globe. The Ellington High School Tri-M Music Honor Society will provide festive performances from 5:45–7 p.m.

At the Ellington Congregational Church, visitors can view the charming Gingerbread House Contest entries from 2–6:30 p.m., enjoy a Bell Choir and musical program from 3:30–4 p.m., and warm up with a meal at the Winterfest Café from 4–6:30 p.m., offering family-friendly favorites.

The Ellington Historical Society welcomes guests from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. for its Holiday Marketplace. Nellie’s Mercantile will feature new gift items, artisan products, and Ellington-themed goods, while the Holiday Boutique offers previously loved holiday décor at bargain prices. The museum will be beautifully decorated, and from 3–7 p.m. visitors can enjoy the Peppermint Pub, food trucks, a bonfire, hot chocolate, goodies, adult beverages, and warm fellowship.

Rounding out the evening, the Opening Knight Players at Ellington High School will present They Promised Her the Moon at 7:30 p.m., with additional performances on Friday and Sunday.

Winterfest in Ellington is truly a celebration of community—filled with music, tradition, good food, local artisans, and holiday spirit for all.