2025 SantaCon In Fairfield A 'Success,' First Selectperson Says

FAIRFIELD, CT — In an effort to avoid the mess from past editions in Fairfield, Saturday's SantaCon was a private, ticketed event, hosted by Fairfield University, which First Selectperson Christine Vitale said was successful.

"After months of planning, it was wonderful to see Saturday’s Fairfield University SantaCon event go so well," Vitale said in a statement to Patch. "Students celebrated dressed in holiday attire; the beaches were left clean, and our residents and students were kept safe thanks to the stellar work of the Fairfield Police Department, Fire Department, and mutual aid partners. I want to thank Fairfield University for their collaboration, the students for trying something new, and the many town departments who played a role in today’s success. It was truly a team effort!"

Town officials, Fairfield University officials, and members of the police and fire departments, among others, formulated plans to avoid a repeat of last year's event, which saw arrests, fights, revelers taken to area hospitals due to over-intoxication, and other problems.

This year's event was held at Jennings Beach featured food trucks, a DJ, drinks for those over 21, and plenty of bathrooms.

Fairfield police officers were also out in force at the beach and downtown areas on Saturday to keep the peace, and for the first time in recent memory, there were no citations and no arrests, according to police.

"I’m grateful for the cooperation we saw [Saturday] from students, residents, and our partner agencies," said Fairfield Police Chief Michael Paris. "Our priority is always safety, and the positive outcome of this event reflects the shared commitment of everyone involved."

Added Jennifer Anderson, Fairfield University's Vice President of Marketing & Communications, "Fairfield University’s private, ticketed SantaCon event at Jennings Beach supported a positive student experience and significantly reduced the neighborhood disruptions seen in past years from individuals not affiliated with the University. We appreciate the partnership of the Town, Fairfield Police and Fire, and the cooperation of our students."