Merry Day & Jolly Nights
The City of New London is proud to announce the commencement of its holiday season with a calendar of events celebrating the diverse array of faiths and holidays in New London’s culture.
November 28th Christmas Tree Lighting- 5pm – 6pm at the Parade Plaza.
Celebrate the spirit of the season with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Parade Plaza in downtown New London! From 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, enjoy a festive evening filled with Christmas carols from the Eastern CT Symphony Chorus the melodious sounds of the Shoreline Ringers Bell Choir and a special performance by The New London Arts Magnet Pathway Chorus.
We’re excited to welcome a special performance by St. Joseph’s Hurricane Color Guard! Don’t miss this talented group as they bring vibrant energy, precision, and artistry to the event with their stunning routines and teamwork.
At 5:30 PM, Santa Claus will make a grand entrance, parading down Banks Street in a brilliantly illuminated Jeep parade! After the tree lighting, capture the holiday magic by taking pictures with Santa at The Golden Owl.
Don’t forget to visit The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree, at the Parade Plaza where you can adopt a family for the holidays and bring joy to those in need.
November 29th – Small Business Saturday – Stroll New London to get a jump on your holiday shopping and have lunch.
Other Holiday events in Downtown New London
The Annex-$10 Rack! Tshirts, Crews & Hoodies marked down! 25% OFF Select apparel & goods. With over 30 local artists’ creations to choose from, we have something for everyone!
Santa Letters Drop-Off: Visit The Golden Owl and use our special mailbox to send your letters directly to Santa Claus!”
Hygienics Annual Holiday Show, “Art=Gift” is back! This year’s show features handcrafted, affordable art by local and regional artists
Santa Shopping Stroll –Check out the list of special offers from the businesses participating on that day. Spend $25 on participating in business and receive a gift of a limited-edition New London ornament while supplies last.
🎄 Live Entertainment & Festivities:
Ice carving –Visit the Hygienic Art Park to experience live ice carving at 1-2:30pm.
Live Music on roaming Bank Street from Noon -4:30pm
🎁 Holiday Deals & Treats:
Explore local businesses offering exclusive discounts, special offers, and festive perks:
The Golden Owl -Drop off your Santa letters at the Santa Express mailbox.
Studio 33- Small Business Saturday, Studio 33 will be having an inventory clearance sale on selected items. Bring your own box or tote bag and fill it with our readymade frames for a special price. Glass and backing are available. Fun for DYI customers. So SIP and SAVE at Studio 33. We will have beverages for you.
Telegraph Autonomous Zone 137 Bank Street)–will be offering $5 off when you purchase two sealed full-length records and $10 off when you purchase three, excluding RSD Black Friday titles.
The Garde Art center –The Nutcracker | Garde Arts Center – two shows on December 13th – 1:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. (The Box Office will be open at 11 a.m. )
Stop at the GARDE during Santa Stroll Make spirits bright with the perfect gift for everyone on your list a Garde Arts Center Gift Card!!
Bonus… to keep or gift as stocking stuffers, Hanukkah gilt, or Kwanzaa festivities. Receive 1 Garde Arts Center Mug with the purchase of each $50 GIFT CARD
Disclaimer: Offer valid Sat Dec 13, 2025, to Dec 24, 2025. Gift cards must be purchased through the box office, either in person or over the phone. Shipped gift cards incur a $2.00 shipping fee. Not valid on previously purchased gift cards, gift cards purchased online, or in combination with any other offer. Garde Arts Center gift cards are only redeemable toward the purchase of tickets for performances at the Garde Arts Center. Not exchangeable for cash, no cash back.
Sarge Comics– gift cards at 10% off.
Crisp Serenity – 153 Bank Street – Will be offering custom candle-making classes and a wonderful selection of handmade products, including candles, room sprays, soaps, and fragrance rollers. Enjoy 10% off all in-store items and 10% off candle-making class bookings made during the event.
Ottos Barber Shop– $5.00 off on Gift Certificate purchases
Anchor Down Nutrition-10% off all purchases.
The Dewart Building – Stop by and check out the specials offered by the Dewart tenants.
Northern Light Gems– 1/3 off all in stock purchases.
🎨 Artistic Highlights:
Christmas Market – 86 Golden Street
The Local Art Gallery– on 114 Bank St.- Will be serving cookies and cocoa while hosting our Great Big Little Art Show, which has expanded this year to include the lower level, creating even more space for beautiful handmade gifts.
New London INK– Will offer a 10% discount on any gift card purchase and receive a gift when you purchase a gift card of $50 or more!
The Annex – – $10 Rack! Tshirts, Crews & Hoodies marked down! 25% OFF Select apparel & goods. With over 30 local artists’ creations to choose from, we have something for everyone
🍻 Sip, Savor, & Celebrate:
Tox Brewery – Stoutmas Stout Tap Takeover, Festive beer glasses, – Free jingle necklace with Coffee Shop Purchase (while supplies last) and – Festive drink specials
Pub 181. ( top of state street ) Will offer a 10% discount that day. All food a drinks for everyone !
Water Street Waffle – Buy one get 1/2 off of our Holiday Waffles, full menu until 6 PM that night.
Comfort Catering – 86 Golden Street 10% off food purchase
✨ Additional Bonuses:
December 14th – Lighting of the Menorah– Parade Plaza 3-5pm
December 26th – Kwanzaa- Kinara lighting at the Parade Plaza 5 pm
January 4th 1–3 PM– Three Kings Celebration – Will be held at our new location: 176 State Street, New London (Across from City Hall, to the left of the main Crocker House entrance) No registration is needed, and we are currently collecting donations. Everyone is welcome! For Questions call or text us at (860) 574-6870. – Sponsored by ADNL / Asociación de Dominicanos de New London
