The turkey’s carved and leftovers are stacked, after the feast comes the fun with long weekend calling! Whether you’re hosting family or playing tourist in your own town, here are 17 festive things to do Thanksgiving weekend.

Stonington Lobster Trap Tree at Stonington Town Dock through 1/4/2026: Experience this sparkling seaside masterpiece honoring the town’s fishing roots and making the perfect backdrop for your holiday photos.

Artistry at the Guilford Art Center , through 1/5/25: Find handmade treasure at Guilford Art Center’s Holiday Expo! Discover works from 300+ American artisans, jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and more, in this beloved showcase of creativity and holiday cheer.

Olde Mistick Village Holiday Light Spectacular – Mystic, through 1/31/26: Get your sparkle on and wander through over half a million twinkling lights, sip, shop, and soak up the magic at New England’s brightest (and free) tradition.

Beat the Butterball Blues at TreeTrails – Mystic, 11/28: Shake off that turkey coma and climb into adventure! TreeTrails’ Black Friday Glow Night brings zip-lining fun, fresh air, and festive lights for the whole family.

Next Stop Santa at Shoreline Trolly Museum – East Haven, Weekends 11/28 – 12/21: All aboard for holiday magic. Ride a holiday-tricked out trolley to meet Santa, sip hot cocoa, explore holiday displays, and make memories that sparkle at the Shore Line Trolley Museum.

Winter Nights at Stone Acres Farm – Stonington, 11/28 – 1/1/2026:  Savor the season at the Winter Nights pop-up. Enjoy a four-course farm-to-table feast, seasonal drinks, and cozy fireside ambiance all through the holidays. Make your reservation.

Holiday Tours at Gillette Castle – East Haddam,11/28 – 12/21: Step into the magic of the season at Gillette Castle. Twinkling lights, holiday décor, and a dash of mystery await inside this storybook stone mansion overlooking the Connecticut River. Don’t miss it.

Ashlawn’s Roasting Barn – Lyme, 11/29 from 10am – 3pm: The roasting at Ashlawn Farm Coffee returns to its roots! Explore their newly renovated roasting barn with demos, espresso pours, pastries, and tours. Enjoy a warm, aromatic celebration of community, craft, and coffee love.

New London’s Small Business Saturday, 11/29: Skip the big-box bustle and shop local in New London! Celebrate Small Business Saturday with unique finds, deals, live entertainment, and community spirit all along the city’s vibrant downtown streets.

New Haven Small Business Saturday, 11/29: New Haven sparkles on Small Business Saturday. Sip free cocoa, meet Santa, watch live ice carving, enjoy carolers, and shop local treasures at The Shops at Yale.

Madison Beach Hotel Annual Bonfire & Tree Lighting , 11/29 at 4pm: Caroling, complimentary hot cocoa, hot cider and live holiday themed music. Registration encouraged. Stay for dinner after, at The Wharf, reservations recommended.

22^nd Annual Niantic Holiday Stroll on 11/29, 12 Noon – 6pm: Shop small, eat big, feel merry! The stroll features local deals, giveaways, and bites from the Food Truck Court to get you into the sprit.

Holiday Lighted Boat Parade & Santa Arrives by Tugboat in Mystic on 11/29:  
Set sail for holiday magic in Mystic. Watch Santa cruise in on a 60-foot tugboat, then marvel as dazzling, decked-out boats light up the river in a sparkling parade.

Ocean House Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony – Watch Hill, RI  11/29, 4:30pm: Santa’s trading his sleigh for a firetruck! Enjoy Ocean House’s beloved tree lighting with cocoa, cookies, fireworks, and cheer by the sea. Bring a toy to share the joy!

Miracle on 34th Street at the Schubert – New Haven, 11/29 & 11/30: Believe in the magic of the season with Miracle on 34th Street! A heartwarming holiday musical filled with wonder and laughter.

Holiday Magic at Flo Gris Museum – Old Lyme, 11/29/25 – 1/4/2026: Celebrate the season at the museum’s dazzling holiday display! Marvel at 250 artist-created palettes, vintage 1910 décor, festive teas (make reservations) and the holiday shop.

Trees in the Rigging – Essex, 11/30: Celebrate the season Essex-style with a glittering boat parade along the riverfront, Steve Cryan’s beloved train show and a lantern-lit carol stroll.