As the holiday season approaches, Fairfield County, Connecticut, transforms into a hub of festive activities and events that capture the spirit of the season. From enchanting tree lightings to captivating performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here's a curated list of upcoming holiday events in Fairfield County:

1. Glow Wild Lantern Festival at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

Experience a wonderland of illuminated, larger-than-life lanterns inspired by the wild world at the Glow Wild Lantern Festival. This enchanting event runs from September 26 to December 15, 2024, at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport. It's a perfect outing for families and friends to immerse themselves in a magical atmosphere.

2. The Nutcracker Performances

The timeless ballet, "The Nutcracker," will be performed at various venues across Fairfield County:

• Danbury Music Centre: Enjoy performances on December 7 and 8, 2024.
  
  

• Ridgefield Playhouse: Catch shows on December 8 and 9, 2024.
  
  

These performances offer a delightful experience for audiences of all ages.

3. Tree Lighting Ceremonies

Communities across Fairfield County will host tree lighting ceremonies, marking the beginning of the holiday season:

• Fairfield: Tree Lighting & Winter Whimsy on December 3, 2024, from 4:15 PM to 7:00 PM.
  
  

• Greenwich: Annual Tree Lighting on December 2, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
  
  

These events are perfect for families to gather and celebrate the festive season together.

4. Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs

Explore unique gifts and crafts at local holiday markets:

• Fairfield Museum's Holiday Pop-Up Market: Celebrating its 10th annual event, this market offers a variety of gifts and festive items.
  
  

These markets provide an excellent opportunity to find special holiday gifts while supporting local artisans.

5. Holiday Concerts and Performances

Enjoy festive music and performances throughout the county:

• The Yale Whiffenpoofs at Edmond Town Hall: On December 5, 2024, experience the harmonious melodies of this renowned a cappella group.
  
  

• Sacred Heart University Orchestra Holiday Concert: Scheduled for December 10, 2024, at SHU Community Theatre in Fairfield.
  
  

These concerts are sure to fill you with holiday cheer and joy.

6. Breakfast with Santa and Frosty

Create lasting memories with your children by attending breakfast events with Santa or Frosty:

• Bridgeport: Breakfast with Frosty at the Zoo on December 9 and 10, 2024.
  
  

• Fairfield: Holiday Breakfast at Ludlowe High School Cafeteria on December 9, 2024, at 10:00 AM.
  
  

These events offer a delightful experience for children and families alike.

7. Holiday Shows and Theater Performances

Enjoy holiday-themed theater productions:

• "A Christmas Carol" at Downtown Cabaret Theatre in Bridgeport: Performances on December 9 and 10, 2024.
  
  

• "Elf Jr. The Musical" at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown: Shows on December 8 and 9, 2024.
  
  

These performances bring classic holiday stories to life, providing entertainment for the whole family.

8. Holiday Light Displays

Witness dazzling light displays that illuminate the county:

• Lantern Light Village at Mystic: Open on December 8 and 9, 2024, from 5:00 PM.
  
  

• Festival of Lights at Hope River Farm in Fairfield: On December 8 and 9, 2024, at 6:00 PM.
  
  

These events offer a mesmerizing visual experience, perfect for an evening outing.

9. Holiday Parades and Festivals

Join in the festive parades and festivals:

• Heights & Lights in Stamford: On December 10, 2024, at 6:00 PM, featuring Santa rappelling down a building.
  
  

• Jingle Bell 5k & 1 Mile Elf Run in Norwalk: On December 9, 2024, at Calf Pasture Beach.
  
  

These events are great for families and individuals looking to celebrate the holiday season in a lively atmosphere.

10. Menorah Lighting Celebrations

Celebrate Hanukkah with community menorah lightings:

• Stratford Chanukah Party: On December 7, 2024, at 6:30 PM.
  
  

• Menorah Lighting Celebration at Stew Leonard's in Norwalk: On December 7, 2024, at 5:00 PM.
  
  

These events offer a warm and inclusive environment to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

Fairfield County's holiday events offer a diverse array of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you're looking to enjoy a classic holiday performance, participate in a festive run, or simply bask in the glow of beautifully lit trees, there's something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.