Lake Compounce sets May 9 opening day, unveils 2026 seasonal event lineup

Lake Compounce Main Gate in Bristol, Connecticut — Photo via Lake Compounce

Lake Compounce (185 Enterprise Dr, Bristol, CT 06010), billed as America’s first amusement park, will open its gates for the 2026 season on Saturday, May 9, marking 180 years of family entertainment in Connecticut.

Opening Day festivities will begin at 11 a.m. and feature the return of the park’s rides, food offerings and live entertainment. The milestone season will include a full slate of special events and attractions scheduled throughout the spring, summer and fall.

Connecticut’s largest water park, Crocodile Cove, is set to open for the season Saturday, May 23. The water park features more than 15 water slides, a lazy river and two wave pools.

Family-focused programming continues with Kids Fest, held every weekend in June. The event will include character meet-and-greets with figures such as Daniel Tiger and Spookley the Square Pumpkin, along with kid-friendly entertainment, games and treats.

During the summer, Lake Compounce will mark both its 180th season and America’s 250th birthday with themed entertainment, specialty food and beverage offerings and fireworks shows over the lake every Saturday night in July.

See the Message Center below for Connecticut’s top December events — from Hartford Wolf Pack games to events at Fairfield Theatre Company — and don’t miss our links for Connecticut merch by town!

The park will also host its popular drone shows on Aug. 21 and 22, featuring custom aerial designs inspired by signature attractions including Boulder Dash and Wildcat.

Fall programming begins with the return of Phantom Fall Fest, which will run weekends starting Saturday, Sept. 19, and on select dates through Sunday, Nov. 1. The seasonal event will offer haunted attractions and themed entertainment.

“Lake Compounce has been a place where families come together for generations,” General Manager Doug Hemphill said in a statement. “As we celebrate 180 seasons, we’re focused on delivering experiences that create unforgettable memories.”

Guests can extend their visit with overnight stays at the Lake Compounce Campground, which opens for the season Friday, May 1. Accommodations include cabins, RV sites and tent camping located adjacent to the park.

Season passes for 2026 are currently on sale, with payment plans available. All 2026 season passes include admission to the final season of Holiday Lights, which runs weekends through Dec. 28. Select pass levels offer additional benefits such as free parking and guest tickets.

Additional details about the 2026 season, including the full event calendar and season pass options, are available on the park’s website.

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December events at Fairfield Theatre Company

Fairfield Theatre Company is ringing in the holiday season with a lively lineup of performances throughout December. Highlights include multiple performances of A Christmas Carol: The Musical on Dec. 12, 13, and 14, a holiday-themed Holiday In The Warehouse show on Dec. 10, and concerts from artists like Bob Schneider and Steve Poltz on Dec. 9, TAB Benoit on Dec. 13, Built to Spill on Dec. 16, and Caravan of Thieves on Dec. 20. Music fans can also catch Yacht Lobsters, The Alpaca Gnomes, The Weight Band, The Crystal Pyramid Band, and CTGB Night, while educational programming features Teachrock on Dec. 17. The schedule promises a mix of festive cheer, rock, and blues to close out the year.

December 2025 calendar of events
12/17 – Teachrock
12/19 – The Alpaca Gnomes
12/20 – Caravan of Thieves
12/20 – The Weight Band
12/27 – The Crystal Pyramid Band
12/28 – CTGB Night

Click here for more information & order tickets.

Learn to cook this winter with AMG Catering

AMG Catering & Events in Wilton, Connecticut, is kicking off 2026 with a brand-new culinary class series packed with bold flavors, global inspiration, and seasonal comfort. Each session offers hands-on instruction, perfectly paired beverages, and a full menu of dishes to make together — all designed for home cooks of every skill level who love great food and a fun night out. Classes start January 14, 2026.

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December events at PeoplesBank Arena

12/17 – Marquette vs UConn Women’s Basketball, click here to purchase tickets
12/19 – Syracuse Crunch vs Hartford Wolf Pack, click here to purchase tickets
12/27 – Harlem Globetrotters, click here to purchase tickets
12/31 – Bridgeport Islanders vs Hartford Wolf Pack, click here to purchase tickets

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Lake Compounce sets May 9 opening day, unveils 2026 seasonal event lineup