Skip to content
Christmas in Greenwich CT is just like all those holiday postcards. It’s packed with fun events, festive traditions, and a ton of cheer. It’s what makes Greenwich, CT, such a great spot to soak up the holiday season. Read on for a quick guide to what’s happening around town.
Ready to plan your Greenwich, CT, Christmas? Let’s get into it:
Major Greenwich CT Christmas Events
Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop
Dates: November 29 – December 24, 2024
Location: Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses, 437 North Street
If you’ve ever wanted to meet real-life reindeer, this is your chance! The Greenwich Reindeer Festival is a family favorite among annual traditions here. You can snap a picture with Santa and enjoy activities like:
-
A reindeer coloring station
-
And writing letters with Christmas wishes to the North Pole
There’s even a chance to win prizes like a Mercedes-Benz kids’ electric car. The best part? Some of the proceeds go to local charities like Kids in Crisis. So you’re spreading holiday cheer while giving back.
Town Hall Tree Lighting
The annual tree lighting at the Greenwich Town Hall is the official start to the holiday season. You can expect festive music, caroling, and a whole lot of holiday spirit. It’s a great way to kick off December with the Greenwich, CT, community.
Winter Market at Christ Church Greenwich
Dates: December 1-3 | Downtown Greenwich
This market has you covered for unique, made in CT gifts. Local artisans converge to sell everything from handmade crafts to festive treats. It’s perfect for finding those one-of-a-kind presents at Christ Church Greenwich.
Holiday Festival at the Greenwich Historical Society
Date: December 7
Step back in time at the Greenwich Historical Society‘s holiday festival. You can grab a photo with Santa in a charming, historic setting while the kids enjoy themed activities like arts and crafts.
Festival of Trees
December 8–10 | Greenwich Historical Society
If you love holiday decorations, you can’t miss the Festival of Trees. Local designers deck out tabletop trees, and you can view—or even bid on—your favorite in a silent auction. It’s like window shopping, but for Christmas trees!
Festive Holiday Centerpiece Workshop
December 12, 6:30–8:00 PM | Greenwich Historical Society, Cos Cob
Need a break from the holiday hustle? This workshop is the perfect way to unwind and get creative. You’ll design your own holiday centerpiece with an oasis wreath, fresh greens, pine cones, berries, and flowers—all topped off with a candle in a hurricane glass. It’s a fun, hands-on way to add a personal touch to your holiday decor, and you’ll leave feeling festive and relaxed.
More Holiday Fun
Greenwich Avenue Holiday Shopping
Greenwich Avenue is always a great place to shop, but it’s so festive with lights strung in the trees lining the Ave for the holidays.
Holiday Drive-In Movies
This one’s part of the “Let There Be Lights” series. Families can cozy up in their cars and watch classic holiday movies outdoors. It’s a safe, fun way to enjoy the holiday season, and a great winter date idea. Who doesn’t love a good Christmas movie, and at a nostalgic drive-in movie theater, no less?
Community Christmas Festival at Round Hill Community Church
A little something for everyone, this festival offers activities for both kids and adults, bringing the community together to celebrate.
Tl;dr
Greenwich knows how to do Christmas right. From the magical Reindeer Festival to tree lightings and festive markets, there’s something for every person in the family to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll feel the holiday spirit all around town, as hosted by so many local organizations. So, grab your mittens, gather your loved ones, and enjoy all the festive fun this season!
Frequently Asked Questions
What other holiday events are happening in Greenwich besides the Reindeer Festival?
Plenty! The Reindeer Festival is just the tip of the Christmas iceberg. Here’s a quick look at some other fun holiday events around town to celebrate December in Connecticut:
-
Winter Market at Christ Church
December 1-3
Shop holiday gifts, jewelry, clothing, and specialty foods, with live music and cocktails on the first night. -
Town Hall Tree Lighting
December 1, 4 PM
Kick off the season with live entertainment and a visit from Santa. -
Community Christmas Festival at Round Hill Community Church
December 3
Family-friendly activities for all ages. -
Festival of Trees at Greenwich Historical Society
December 8-10
View and bid on creatively decorated trees by local designers. -
Holiday Festival at Greenwich Historical Society
December 9, 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Crafts, gingerbread decorating, and candlelight tours of the historic Bush-Holley House. -
Arch in Bloom Flurry Fest
December 2, 12 PM – 6 PM
Music, refreshments, and kid-friendly activities while you shop for gifts. -
Holiday Happenings & Movie Night
December 9
Holiday music, crafts, and a pajama party for families at the Bendheim Civic Center.
Are there any special activities for kids at the Reindeer Festival?
You bet! The Reindeer Festival is packed with fun activities that’ll keep the kids entertained while you sneak in some holiday magic. Here’s what to be on the lookout for:
-
Reindeer Coloring Station
Kids can show off their creativity while waiting for Santa. Sponsored by Jenny Allen/Compass, so it’s legit! -
Letter Writing to Santa
Thanks to Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group, your little ones can write their wish lists right there. Straight to the big guy—no postage needed! -
Raffles and Contests
-
Mercedes-Benz Kids Electric Car Raffle: Take a pic with Santa and you’re entered to win a mini electric car!
-
Name the Baby Reindeer Contest: If your kid’s got a knack for cute names, they could win yet another electric car.
-
Photos with Santa
Kids, pets, even adults—everyone’s welcome to pose with Santa. Bonus points if your dog cooperates. -
Giving Tree for Kids in Crisis
A chance for the kiddos to learn about giving back by supporting Kids in Crisis. They’ll feel good while doing good.
Can I bring my dog to the Reindeer Festival?
Absolutely! Dogs are totally welcome at the Reindeer Festival as long as they’re on a leash. Bonus: if you stop by with your dog during the week (Monday to Friday), you’ll snag a special Doggy Gift Bag, courtesy of Cornell University Veterinary Specialists. Plus, fewer people = shorter lines!
