From parades to pajama parties, the holiday season is brimming with happenings for the whole family. Here are a few of the November + December events we’re especially excited about.
No. 1: Hey, Santa
Kick off with Santa’s grand entrance at Stamford Town Center. Stamford Moms and Stamford Ford are bringing back the Pajama Party for year two with a live magic show, crafts, cookies and a reading of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Don your festive PJs and join the dance party on Friday, November 7, from 5 to 8 p.m.
No. 2: Float On
It’s parade day in Stamford! On Sunday, November 23, the Downtown Parade Spectacular brings giant helium balloons, award-winning marching bands, incredible dance groups and pure holiday joy to our streets.
No. 3: North Pole Bound
Climb aboard the Holiday Wish Express on Level 5 at Stamford Town Center, and set off on a magical journey filled with surprises and special guests. Explore the Toy Makers’ Workshop, peek inside Mrs. Claus’ Gingerbread House, and take in dazzling holiday light displays—starting November 22. theholidaywish.com.
No. 4: Pints & Presents
Get ahead of your holiday list while enjoying a day out at the Stamford Moms Holiday Sip and Shop, presented by Pure Barre Stamford. On Sunday, December 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Third Place by Half Full Brewery transforms into a local shopping wonderland, featuring vendors like Weekend Glow, Letter Story Bracelets, The Stamford Moms Patch Bar, Aunt JoJo’s and more. stamfordmoms.com
No. 5: Heights & Lights
On December 7 at 5 p.m., watch Santa, the Grinch and other holiday favorites take the plunge, twisting and flying from the top of Landmark Square in a high-flying, daredevil descent. Once the rappelling antics wrap, the real sparkle begins: a festive fireworks show lights up the sky. Then it’s a march down Bedford Street to Latham Park, where holiday music sets the scene for the Stamford tree lighting.
No. 6: Let’s Glow
Watch the giant menorah glow on December 14, then deck your car for the December 20 Menorah Car Parade. It’s all the lights, treats and family-friendly fun you could wish for this Hanukkah.
No. 7: Ring in Noon!
Who says New Year’s Eve has to wait until midnight? Celebrate early with the whole family! Join the Ferguson Library, Stepping Stones or the Maritime Aquarium for a kid-friendly Noon Year’s Eve countdown. Or bring the party home: set up a living-room balloon drop, serve breakfast for dinner in your pajamas, and toast with sparkling cider. Craft DIY party hats, strike silly poses in a makeshift photo booth, and dance your way into the New Year. It’s all the sparkle, fun, and excitement—without the bedtime battles.