It’s that magic-filled time of year when Connecticut is completely aglow with millions of sparkling lights (aka the best time of year – winter!). And with so many festive displays, it’s a great time for a road trip. Hop in the car to cruise this holiday lights trail that will chase all of your Bah Humbugs away – this is our epic drive for the best Christmas lights in Connecticut.

Google Maps
The Connecticut Holiday Lights Trail will take you to the boldest and brightest displays in the state. Grab the interactive map for this illuminating road trip
1. Wonderland At Roseville, Fairfield
226 Roseville Terrace, Fairfield, CT 06824, USA
Facebook/Wonderland at Roseville
Wonderland in Roseville is pure magic. The Halliwell family have created a walk-through holiday display at their home in Fairfield. Enjoy thousands of lights and the model trains that chug around the yard. Stroll the property for free but donations are accepted and go directly to the Shriners Children's Hospital.
2. That House In Milford, Milford
75 Meadows End Rd, Milford, CT 06460, USA
Google Images/Amanda Aliberti
Recognized as the most spirited house in town during the holidays, That House In Milford uses over 30,000 lights in its display. Check out the over-the-top decor for free but consider making a donation to the Connecticut Food Bank. This holiday attraction has raised over $19,000 to help those in need since its inception in 2007. The 2023 dates have not yet been announced, so stay tuned to see if this wonder-filled festival of lights will reopen this year.

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3. Fantasy Of Lights, New Haven
2 Lighthouse Rd, New Haven, CT 06512, USA
2 Lighthouse Road, New Haven, CT 06512
Facebook/Fantasy of Lights
Purchase some 3D glasses to take in the full effect of Fantasy of Lights. More than 100,000 glittering lights and 80 animated displays make Lighthouse Park in New Haven come to life. Admission to the 1-mile drive-thru lights show is $10 per vehicle.
4. Festival Of Silver Lights, Meriden
Notch Road, Notch Rd, Meriden, CT, USA
Google Images/Robert Nalewajek
Hubbard Park takes on an enchanting air with 350,000 twinkling white lights. Bring your camera to snap pictures of over 200 lit figurines. Drive or stroll the loop around Mirror Lake for free at this event. Be sure to keep an eye on the 2023 event page on Facebook for all the latest details.
5. Lake Compounce Holiday Lights, Bristol
Lake Compounce Amusement & Water Park, 185 Enterprise Dr, Bristol, CT 06010, USA
Lake Compounce
Hundreds of thousands of lights will deck out Lake Compounce in a festive air during the holiday season. A light show set to music takes place every half hour. Take a spin on select family and kids rides that are open!
6. Magic of Lights, Hartford
615 Silver Ln, East Hartford, CT 06118, USA
Mike Jan/Google Local
Cruise through the state's largest drive-thru lights display at Holiday Lights Fantasia in Goodwin Park. Gaze in wonder at the 2-mile show with over 80 million twinkling lights. At just $15 per carload, this magnificent wonderland will be the highlight of your holiday.

Who do you know that would appreciate this spectacular holiday lights trail? The season only comes around once a year, so make the most of it! Take the entire family to visit this whimsical elf village in CT or have an adult night out at this super festive Christmas pop-up bar in CT. Not sure what to bring to view all the best Christmas lights in Connecticut? Check out our ultimate Road Trip Packing List.

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More to Explore

Christmas Lights in Connecticut

Tori Jane | October 25, 2023

Where can I find the best Christmas lights in Connecticut? 

Connecticut might be a small state, but it’s big on the holidays – it seems like everywhere you turn, you’ll find amazing decorations and holiday cheer. For those who love the lights, there are many options; some of the best places to see Christmas lights in Connecticut are:  

  • Lake Compounce Holiday Lights – What's better than Christmas lights? What about Christmas lights on the lake? We think yes.  
  • The New Haven Festival of Lights – Each and every year, this wonder-filled festival brings holiday joy to hundreds.  
  • The Festival of Silver Lights – This stunning display is open until January, so you’ve got plenty of time.  

Learn more about our favorite Christmas lights in Connecticut. 

What are some popular Christmas activities in Connecticut?  

Done with the lights but craving more? We don’t blame you! There just so happens to be many things to do in Connecticut for Christmas. Some of our favorite activities for Christmas in Connecticut include:  

No matter what you do, you’re sure to find ways to fall in love with Connecticut at Christmas time.  

What is winter in Connecticut like?  

In a word: cold. Winters in Connecticut can be rough if you’re unprepared or don’t realize what to expect, but once you’ve got it down, you’ll find that it’s still a magical time of year. Some quick winter facts about Connecticut:  

  • Daytime high temperatures range from 37 to 42 degrees – brrr! Winters are even chillier, with temps averaging from one to three degrees! Be sure to dress warm no matter what time it is.  
  • The average snowfall Connecticut sees every year is about 32 inches, which is just barely higher than the national average.  
  • There are many state parks and campgrounds still open in the winter – it's a great time of year to get outside! 

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