Holiday magic returns: The 39th annual New England Christmas Festival comes to Mohegan Sun

New England Christmas Festival returns to Mohegan Sun in November 2025
Photo via Mohegan Sun

Unwrap the magic of the season at one of New England’s most beloved holiday traditions. The 39th Annual New England Christmas Festival returns to Mohegan Sun’s Earth Expo & Convention Center from Friday, November 7 through Sunday, November 9, bringing with it the spirit, sparkle, and scents of the holidays.

For three festive days, the region’s largest arts and crafts festival transforms the expo hall into a winter wonderland of creativity and cheer. More than 400 pop-up boutiques will fill the aisles with handcrafted gifts, seasonal décor, specialty foods, jewelry, fashion, toys, and unique finds for everyone on your list—including your furry friends.

See the Message Center below for Connecticut’s top October events — from Hartford Wolf Pack games to concerts across the state — and grab this season’s hottest Connecticut merch!

Since its debut in 1982, the multi-award-winning festival has become a holiday shopping tradition for families and gift seekers alike. Guests can discover distinctive, artisan-made treasures from some of America’s top craftspeople, from hand-poured candles and cozy knitwear to gourmet treats and whimsical holiday ornaments. Whether you’re searching for a heartfelt handmade gift or a festive piece to brighten your home, you’ll find endless inspiration at every turn.

Beyond shopping, visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of holiday music, twinkling lights, and a sense of community that captures the true essence of the season. With so much to explore under one roof, the festival offers the perfect opportunity to jumpstart your holiday spirit and make lasting memories.

The New England Christmas Festival will be open Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are available now through the event’s official website.

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Don’t miss

• Goodwin University hosts annual Connecticut Foodshare Turkey Drive on November 12
• Learn to cook this fall with AMG Catering & Events
• Mohegan Sun’s Annual Tree Lighting to feature Earth, Wind & Fire’s Philip Bailey & Ralph Johnson on December 7th

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October events at Fairfield Theatre Company

October is packed with live entertainment at Fairfield Theatre Company and beyond, bringing a mix of music, theater, and seasonal celebrations. From legendary performers and fresh new voices to fundraisers, family shows, and Halloween favorites, there’s something for everyone this month. Whether you’re catching an intimate concert, rocking out with a high-energy band, or getting into the spooky spirit, these upcoming events showcase some of the best performances and community gatherings of the season.

October 2025 calendar of events
October 30 – Thriller Thursday

Click here for more information & order tickets.

Learn to cook this fall with AMG Catering

AMG Catering and Events in Wilton, Connecticut, is offering a fall series of cooking classes designed to celebrate seasonal flavors and global cuisine. Each class combines hands-on instruction with perfectly paired beverages, from wine and beer to creative cocktails, as participants learn to prepare a variety of savory and sweet dishes. From autumn-inspired comfort foods to festive holiday treats, these classes provide an interactive, fun experience for home cooks of all skill levels. Join AMG this fall to sharpen your culinary skills, explore new flavors, and enjoy delicious meals in a vibrant, social setting. Click here for more information.

October events at PeoplesBank Arena

10/26 – UCONN Women’s Basketball vs Southern Connecticut State
10/28 -UCONN Men Basketball vs Michigan State
10/29 – Charlotte Checkers vs Hartford Wolf Pack, click here to purchase tickets
10/31 – Lehigh Valley Phantoms vs Hartford Wolf Pack, click here to purchase tickets

Connecticut Merch

Celebrate Connecticut nostalgia with our Vintage Merritt Parkway and Wilbur Cross Parkway collection! Honoring the classic exit numbers, these designs pay tribute to the iconic parkways that connect communities across the state. Explore a variety of items including T-shirts, hoodies, crewnecks, mugs, tote bags, decorative pillows, and blankets, all with free shipping. Perfect for Connecticut residents, collectors, and road trip lovers who want to showcase their state pride. Each piece captures a timeless piece of local history while adding style to your wardrobe or home.

Vintage Merritt Parkway Exits 
Exit 27 • Exit 28 • Exit 29 • Exit 31 • Exit 33 • Exit 34 • Exit 35 • Exit 36 • Exit 37 • Exit 38  Exit 39 • Exit 40  Exit 41 • Exit 42 • Exit 44 • Exit 46 • Exit 47 • Exit 48 • Exit 49 • Exit 50 • Exit 51 • Exit 52 • Exit 53 • Exit 54 

Vintage Wilbur Cross Parkway
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Gourmet Cookies

Indulge in Keksi gourmet cookies, featuring classic flavors such as chocolate chip and snickerdoodle, as well as new monthly creations. Made with the highest quality ingredients, each bite is a delicious treat. Perfect for any cookie lover!

Movie showtimes at Prospector Theater

Looking to see a movie. Click here for showtimes

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Let’s create with Victory Designs

Need help with your creative needs? Our team has 20+ years of experience with Adobe, Shopify, and WordPress, and we offer affordable graphic design and web services. Let Victory Designs assist you with bringing your ideas to life.

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