Holiday Season Celebrations in Stamford, CT

As the holiday season approaches, everyone from kids to grandparents gets into the spirit of celebration. In Stamford, Connecticut, the holiday season means a series of events and activities that bring together the entire community.

Holiday Parade Spectacular

In the tradition of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Stamford hosts one of the largest helium balloon parades in the country every November. The Sunday afternoon event annually draws almost a quarter of a million people to the streets of Stamford's revitalized downtown. Dozens of giant balloons of some of the most beloved children's characters drift gently above the crowds. Local and regional marching bands perform, and spectacular floats travel the city's streets.

The night before the parade, the giant balloons come to life in a fun-filled inflation party. Music and entertainment keep folks busy, but the center of attention is the massive, illuminated balloons as they are filled and prepared to go aloft.

Holiday Tree Lighting

The arrival of Santa Claus in downtown Stamford is unlike anywhere else in America. In early December, at the ceremonies to celebrate the lighting of the Christmas tree at the downtown Landmark Center, jolly old St. Nick and his helpers daringly rappel from the top of Stamford's tallest building. You've never seen a sight like Santa's 22-story descent down the side of the tower - where he lands just in time to preside over the lighting of the tree in nearby Latham Park. Live music and other entertainment add to the holiday fun.

Stamford Harbor Parade of Lights

Another unique celebration of the season takes place on Stamford's waterfront. Each year, dozens of boats take part in the Parade of Lights, which includes both inlets of Stamford's harbor. In the past, participants have ranged from tiny kayaks to boats large enough to feature a live on-board band! The parade course takes the floating celebrants from Czesik Marina off Harbor Drive, south past the point of Kosciusko Park, and back in the West Branch of the harbor along Southfield Avenue.

New Canaan "Homes for the Holidays" House Tour

For over 45 years, the Newcomers Club of New Canaan has raised money for local charities through its holiday open house tours. Every two years, a handful of remarkable local homes are decorated for the holidays by professional designers and opened to the public. The homes - of varied architectural styls and decorated with different themes - are open for both daytime and evening tours, offering a completely different experience under the spell of holiday lights.