Visit These 8 Christmas Lights Displays In Connecticut For A Magical Experience

Whether fall is in full swing or Christmas is just around the corner, it's never too early to get into the festive spirit! The holidays in Connecticut are special for a multitude of reasons (hello, snow!), and Christmas lights are one of the most beautiful parts of the season; they make for perfect family-friendly outings! Whether you need to wrap up your holiday shopping, give Santa your wishlist, want to embrace the season, or have simply been looking for a fun, nostalgic experience, plan a visit to one or more of these gorgeous Christmas lights shows in Connecticut. From magical drive-thru Christmas lights to fantastic Christmas light festivals, you'll find plenty of magic to enjoy!

1. Lake Compounce Holiday Lights, Lake Compounce

Marvel at the more than one million shimmering lights during the Holiday Lights celebration at Lake Compounce. Every half an hour features a spectacular holiday lights show, but that's just the beginning of the fun. Kiddos can write a letter to and meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus for a Christmastime story time. Check out the Lake Compounce website for more information, including days, hours, and admission prices.

2. Northern Lights Limited Train Rides with Santa, Thomaston

Is Polar Express your favorite Christmas movie? Then hop aboard a vintage train at the Railroad Museum of New England that has been covered in lights, both inside and out. and head to Santa's workshop for a fun-filled evening with Northern Lights Limited in Thomaston. Train rides run for an hour and 20 minutes. All kiddos will get to meet and have their photos taken with Santa. Each child will also receive a small gift from the big guy himself. Both coach and first class seating are available. The Northern Lights Limited leaves the station on select days throughout December.

3. Fantasy of Lights, New Haven

Lighthouse Point Park comes to life with one of the most intricate light displays around. Travel under tunnels and pass bright, beautiful lights displays. This treasured annual attraction is sponsored by Goodwill of Southern New England and is one of the best Christmas light displays in Connecticut. Check out the Fantasy of Lights website for more information, including dates, times, and admission prices.

4. Festival of Silver Lights at Hubbard Park, Meriden

Embrace the Christmas season in Connecticut with a visit to the Festival of Silver Lights, a spectacular attraction that boasts more than 350,000 twinkling lights. The annual Christmas attraction also features more than 200 figures and buildings that are all decked out in lights. Very few holiday experiences feel as festive as these drive through Christmas lights! Check out the video above from Jem's Lens for a sneak peek!

5. Magic of Lights, East Hartford

This national traveling drive-through Christmas lights show is absolutely dazzling! Over a mile of Christmas light displays, photo opps, and festive delights await. Kids will love ogling the Barbie, monster truck, and prehistoric displays, but let's be real - Magic of Lights will captivate those of ALL ages!

6. Winterfest and Tunnel Of Lights, East Windsor

This three-mile trolley ride through a series of twinkling tunnels is complimented by model train displays and hot cocoa, coffee, donuts, and cookies at the Connecticut Trolley Museum Visitor Center.

7. Holiday Lights Spectacular at Olde Mistick Village, Stonington

New England charm explodes in this old-timey village, which has been the set of more than a few Hallmark movies! Meet Santa and visit the boutiques as you admire the glow of the lights at the Holiday Carnival. The Holiday Lights Spectacular at Olde Mystick Village is one of the most charming and magical Christmas festivals in the state! It's typically held the first week of December.

8. Niantic Light Parade, East Lyme

Bring a lawn chair and relax as the light show comes to you! These moving displays are an excellent show of what happens when you use your imagination. The parade will move down Main Street in Niantic. It's one of the most wonderful and unique Christmas lights shows in Connecticut.

A visit to some of the best displays of Christmas lights in Connecticut is the perfect way to enjoy the season solo or with loved ones. What are your favorite light displays or Christmas festivals in Connecticut?

Searching for even more great Christmas lights near me? Check out these Connecticut Christmas towns! Or, if you desperately need to get away this winter, consider checking into this stunning treehouse in Willington, CT - it's especially dreamy when frosted with snow!