Seasonal & Holidays
2025 Haddam Holiday Guide: Lights, Festive Fun & Good Cheer
From small-town charm to seasonal celebrations, these hometown holiday highlights bring the spirit of the season to life.
The holiday season has arrived in Haddam, bringing twinkling lights, cheerful events and plenty of ways to make memories close to home. From light displays to beloved local traditions, here are the hometown holiday highlights you won’t want to miss.
Please note: Dates and details are subject to change, so be sure to check with each organizer before you go — many events require tickets or reservations in advance.
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas at Goodspeed Musicals
When: Now–Dec. 31, 2025 | Show times vary
Where: Goodspeed Opera House, 6 Main St, East Haddam, CT
Find out what's happening in The Haddams-Killingworthfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Cozy up in the historic Goodspeed Opera House for a classic holiday musical, complete with big band numbers, vintage costumes, and that iconic “White Christmas” finale overlooking the Connecticut River. This show has a running time of 2.5 hours, including intermission. Tickets can be purchased online.
More info: goodspeed.org/shows/white-christmas
Find out what's happening in The Haddams-Killingworthfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
2025 North Pole Express
When: Select dates, Tuesday–Sunday, Dec. 2–23, 2025 | Afternoon & evening departures (approx. 90 minutes round trip)
Where: The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT
Board a vintage train turned “locomotive-powered sleigh” for a cozy, pajama-friendly journey to the North Pole, complete with festive sing-alongs led by Santa, Mrs. Claus and their merry elves. Guests can enjoy hot cocoa, sugar cookies and a magical nighttime ride, while each child receives a small gift from Santa. Families are encouraged to bundle up in their warmest PJs as the round-trip adventure lasts about 90 minutes. All tickets are first-come, first-served and all sales are final.
More info: essexsteamtrain.com/christmas-2025
CK Craft Fair
When: Dec. 6, 2025 | 9 AM–3 PM
Where: Haddam-Killingworth Middle School, 451 Route 81, Killingworth, CT
This long-running juried craft fair brings together around 80 artists, makers, and crafters. Popular items to shop for include: handmade jewelry, photography, knitted items, soaps, candles, dog treats, pottery and more. There will also be food trucks on site, a raffle, a book fair and a kids’ scavenger hunt.
More info: hkyfs.org/event/2025-hk-craft-fair
KHS Annual Christmas Fair
When: Dec. 6, 2025 | 8:30 AM–3 PM
Where: Parmelee Farm, 465 CT-81, Killingworth, CT
Find local and handmade gifts while getting into the Holiday spirit at the KHS Christmas Fair. Browse baked goods, holiday décor, gifts and knitted accessories crafted by local members. All proceeds from the event will go toward supporting property upkeep and member programs. This event will be held rain or shine.
More info: allthingskillingworth.com/event/khs-annual-christmas-fair
Deep River Holiday Stroll
When: Dec. 6, 2025 | 3–8 PM
Where: Deep River Historical Society, 245 Main St, Deep River, CT
The annual Light Up Deep River & Holiday Stroll returns this year with a full day of festive fun for all ages. Enjoy the cheerful parade before gathering for the community tree lighting, followed immediately by a thrilling fire performance. Families can also meet with Santa from 6–7 PM. It’s a warm, spirited celebration that brings the whole town together for the holiday season.
More info: facebook.com
Cookies & Hot Cocoa With Mrs. Claus
When: Dec. 7, 2025 | 1–2 PM
Where: Madison Beach Hotel, 94 West Wharf Rd, Madison, CT
Stories with Mrs. Claus offers a cozy, family-friendly afternoon with hot cocoa, cookies, story time, and photos with Mrs. Claus and her elves. Kids can enjoy a beach-themed craft activity and take home a cookie decorating kit, with the event geared toward families and children under 10 (though all kids are welcome). The 60-minute, in-person session starts promptly, costs $22 per person and requires parents or guardians to stay with their children.
More info: eventbrite.com
Mistletoe & Martinis
When: Dec. 16, 2025 | 6–9 PM
Where: Essex Yacht Club, 19 Novelty Ln., Essex, CT
Dress up a bit for a festive evening fundraiser with holiday cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music and river views. It’s a fun excuse to pull out something sparkly, mingle with neighbors, and support the Connecticut River Museum’s programs at the same time. It's ideal for a date night or a girls’ night out before the holiday rush hits full swing.
More info: ctrivermuseum.org/events/save-the-date-mistletoe-martinis/
Enjoy the season, make a few memories close to home and have a happy holiday, Haddam!
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