Celebrate the season all month long with local lights, cozy stops, markets and hometown holiday charm.
The holiday season is officially here, and there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the magic in and around New Milford. To help get you in the spirit, we’ve rounded up a dozen festive ideas you can enjoy throughout the month — each one a fun, joyful way to celebrate the season close to home.
From twinkling light displays and holiday markets to cozy treats, local shopping spots, winter activities and seasonal shows, these 12 picks highlight what makes New Milford feel especially merry this time of year. Whether you check off one or all twelve, it’s all about slowing down, supporting local businesses and making memories.
At Maple Bank Farm, the winter season transforms the historic farmstand into a cozy wonderland filled with fragrant evergreens, handmade wreaths and bright poinsettias. Families return year after year to browse the rows of pre-cut and potted Christmas trees, each one carefully selected for shape and freshness. The farm’s handcrafted wreaths — made with fresh greens and charming seasonal accents — bring an extra touch of warmth to any home. Whether you’re grabbing produce, décor or your centerpiece tree, it’s an easy way to make your holiday traditions feel special.
Just a short drive from town, Danbury Ice Arena offers festive winter fun on its two NHL-size rinks, with public skate sessions running seven days a week. Beginners and seasoned skaters alike can enjoy smooth ice, rentals on-site and a lively atmosphere perfect for a winter outing. For something extra fun, head to the arena on Friday nights for DJ Skate, held mid-October through mid-April, where strobe lights, a jumbotron and a guest DJ turn the rink into a glowing dance party on ice. Sessions often fill up, so checking the schedule and arriving early is always a good idea.
Tucked into Bank Street, River & Rail Café is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and scratch-made menu inspired by New England’s seasonal flavors. Owners Ethan and Nicky Grivois pour their hearts into every detail, from house-made pastries to specialty coffee drinks crafted with locally roasted beans. December brings cozy, limited-time offerings that pair perfectly with holiday errands or a quiet morning watching the town go by. With its handcrafted charm and community-focused spirit, it’s the kind of café that makes winter mornings feel extra comforting.
From December 5 – 21, TheatreWorks New Milford brings back the beloved local hit “What the Dickens? A Christmas Carol For Any Scrooge,” a zany, fast-paced twist on Dickens’ classic story. As community actors attempt to perform “A Christmas Carol” entirely from memory, things quickly unravel into Monty Python-style silliness that has become a crowd favorite. The show features returning cast members and special themed nights, including a free senior dress rehearsal on December 4 and a Pay-What-You-Want night on December 11. You can learn more here or reserve seats online to guarantee your spot.
A short trip from New Milford brings you to Woodbury Brewing Company: Connecticut’s original brewery and live music venue, known for its warm, laid-back atmosphere. With 16 rotating taps, a full bar and freshly brewed ales and lagers crafted on-site, it’s a great spot to unwind after a busy day of holiday errands. Families are welcome until 9 p.m., and the space is packed with fun touches like cornhole, shuffleboard and a full calendar of live performances. Whether you’re grabbing dinner from their mobile kitchen or catching a show, it’s an easy, festive way to spend a December evening.
At Create Escape Studio, you can dive into holiday creativity with more than 350 items to paint — no studio fees and no reservations required on weekends. Their friendly staff is always on hand to help guide beginners and experienced artists alike, making it a relaxed place to create handmade gifts or décor. December also brings festive events like their Holiday Craft Fair on December 14 and seasonal classes listed on their events page. With unlimited painting time, it’s the perfect cozy indoor activity for a winter afternoon.
Nothing hits the spot on a chilly December day like a warm meal at DinerLuxe, a beloved local spot known for generous portions, fresh ingredients and desserts baked right in-house. Their old-fashioned milkshakes — made with three scoops of real ice cream — are a year-round favorite, and the aroma of fresh pies and breads fills the air from the moment you walk in. With roasted meats cooked daily, soups that locals rave about and nostalgic diner charm, it’s an ideal stop after shopping, skating or seeing lights around town. Friendly service and a relaxed, family-friendly setting make it a go-to during the busy holiday season.
Dive into New Milford’s past at the New Milford Historical Society & Museum, where rotating exhibits and curated artifacts help tell the stories of the region’s people and traditions. While the museum offers enriching programming year-round, December also features their annual Holiday Crafts & Small Business Weekend sale, a festive shopping event perfect for finding handmade gifts and supporting local makers. With knowledgeable volunteers and a strong connection to the community, the museum offers a meaningful way to slow down and reconnect with local heritage this season. Check the museum’s upcoming events for details.
If you’re looking for unique, handmade gifts, And Company on Bank gathers more than 40 local artisans under one roof in a warm, modern marketplace setting. Browse hand-crafted jewelry, art, textiles, home décor and one-of-a-kind holiday finds you won’t see anywhere else. It’s an especially fun stop during December, when the shop is filled with seasonal creations and new arrivals from local makers. Whether you’re treating yourself or checking names off your list, it’s a festive, feel-good way to support the community.
At Honeybee Books & Tea, you’ll find a warm, welcoming space designed for readers, tea lovers and anyone in need of a cozy break during the holiday rush. Sip a fragrant tea while browsing curated books, thoughtful gifts and music selections — all chosen with community building in mind. The shop also supports local teens through internships and donates a portion of profits to Webb Youth Services, meaning every purchase has a purpose behind it. It’s a peaceful spot to escape the cold, pick up presents or simply unwind with a good book.
A longtime local favorite since 1902, the Bank Street Theater offers a classic moviegoing experience right in downtown New Milford. December’s lineup often includes big family-friendly releases. Check the Coming Soon page for titles like “Wicked: For Good,” “Zootopia 2” and “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants.” With four screens, comfortable seating and convenient showtimes, it’s an easy outing during winter break or after an evening out in town. Grab popcorn, settle in and enjoy a festive cinematic escape.
If you’re up for a scenic one-hour drive, Glow Hartford is one of the region’s most dazzling indoor holiday experiences, running now through December 23 at the Connecticut Convention Center. Visitors can wander through glowing light gardens, illuminated walk-through displays and interactive features — including a ride on the “Glow-comotive” train and the all-new GlowQuest wand adventure included with admission. Kids can meet Santa for a free photo, and adults will love the festive food, drinks and holiday market full of artisan vendors. With tickets available here, it makes for a memorable seasonal outing, no matter your age.
Stay warm, shop local and enjoy every twinkling moment — happy holidays, New Milford!
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