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Viewing Connecticut via Hot Air Balloon, Finding Antique treasures in Putnam

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Viewing Connecticut via Hot Air Balloon, Finding Antique treasures in Putnam

Viewing Connecticut via Hot Air Balloon, Finding Antique treasures in Putnam
Find The Last of the Holiday Events.

Mayra Dube

Dec 25, 2025

Bring In the New Year Right!

 

๐ŸŽ‰ Celebrate New Year's Eve 2026 in Style Across Connecticut! ๐ŸŽ†

Connecticut is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable New Year's Eve, offering a kaleidoscope of events from large-scale celebrations to intimate gatherings. Here's your guide to the must-attend events:

  • Hartford: The heart of the state's festivities is First Night Hartford, a family-friendly, arts-focused celebration complete with dazzling fireworks and various downtown parties. ๐ŸŽ‡
  • New Haven: Welcome 2026 at the Party on the Green, featuring live entertainment and vibrant city energy. ๐ŸŽถ
  • Stamford: Embrace the festive spirit at the downtown New Year's Eve Celebration with lively activities and togetherness. ๐ŸŽ‰

Casino Celebrations:

  • Foxwoods Resort Casino & Mohegan Sun: Converge for major NYE parties equipped with exclusive concerts, energetic DJs, and elegant galas. ๐ŸŽฐ

Coastal & Riverfront Towns:

  • Westbrook: Dive into luxury at the Water's Edge Resort & Spa for an exquisite evening of dinner, dancing, and balloon drops at midnight. ๐Ÿฅ‚
  • Mystic: Bask in the charm of the Inn at Mystic with gourmet dining and music, or attend one of the enchanting Mystic-themed galas. ๐ŸŽป
  • Essex: Experience the magic aboard the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat with special NYE events for family-friendly fun. ๐Ÿš‚

Additional Experiences:

  • Gala Dinners & Parties: Enjoy the elegance of venues like Saybrook Point Resort and The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station for refined celebrations. ๐Ÿฅณ
  • Breweries & Pubs: Join the lively atmosphere at spots like Third Place by Half Full Brewery and Elicit Brewing Co for a fun-filled New Year's celebration. ๐Ÿป
  • Comedy Shows: Laugh your way into the New Year with special NYE comedy events at various theaters across the state. ๐Ÿ˜‚

Whatever your preference, you're bound to find the perfect celebration to ring in 2026 with joy, laughter, and memorable moments! ๐Ÿ’ซ

 

โœจ ๐ŸŒŸ Custom Embroidery: unleash your creativity with personalized items! ๐ŸŒŸโœจ Whether you're looking to customize your own apparel or select from our collection, we've got you covered!

๐ŸŽจ Got an image in mind? Let us transform it into a stunning company logo or a unique gift for someone special. Perfect for showing your appreciation in the most personal way. โค๏ธ

๐Ÿงฅ๐Ÿ‘• Wondering what to do with those overgrown t-shirts or sweatshirts? Let's give them a new lease of life! How about a personalized pillow, quilt, or tote bag? ๐Ÿงต๐ŸŽ

๐Ÿ’– Make a Memory from a cherished sweatshirt.

Our Products Include:

  • ๐Ÿงธ Memory items
  • Treasured memory bears ๐Ÿป or other stuffed animals
  • Heartfelt memory pillows or quilts
  • ๐Ÿ‘ถ Adorable baby items, like onesies, loveys, and blankets
  • ๐Ÿšฟ Cozy hooded towels
  • Handy tote bags
  • ๐ŸŽ€ Elegant table runners

Don't forget, we also offer sewing lessons upon request for those eager to learn and explore! ๐Ÿงตโœ‚๏ธ

No order is too big or too small, and we aim to provide a fast turnaround whenever possible.

๐ŸŽ„๐ŸŒŸ Think of us for your holiday needs and bring some personalized warmth to your celebrations this year! ๐ŸŽโœจ

 

CT Voyager Balloons

 

Soar above New England! ๐ŸŒ„

At CT Voyager Balloons, our mission is to inspire and uplift the human spirit by introducing you to the exhilarating world of hot air ballooning. โœจ Experience the majestic beauty of New England from a bird's-eye view as our dedicated Pilot and Crew Members passionately guide you through the skies.

We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and transparency, all while providing an unforgettable aerial journey that emphasizes honesty, integrity, and inclusion for all. ๐ŸŒŸ

Our promise is to sustain and grow our beloved ballooning service, serving a diverse array of clients with care and experience. Join us to discover the wonders and beauties hidden between the clouds and let your spirit soar!

Ready for your adventure? ๐Ÿ•Š๏ธ

 

This weeks trip we are heading up I84 East to hop on to Route 74 (Tolland Turnpike)West, if your heading out early maybe make a stop at Flat Pennies Kitchen when you get off the exit they have breakfast and lunch menus. After that keep heading down Route 74 until it meets Route 44 and then turn left heading East. If you didn't stop at Flat Pennies, then you will go by Midway Restaurant & Pizza. After you filled up then there is Ashford Diary Bar that has ice cream and burgers. When your past that keep an eye out for Route 198 North. Route 198 splits off into 171 and you will follow Route 171. As you drive around up in that area be on the lookout for balloons or sky divers. Your near the Toutant Airport. They take off from there. Keep following Route 171into South Woodstock the road will take a sharp turn. Keep following Route 171. You might want to stop at The Arc Emporium. Small consignment store that has cloths, house wares and books. If you have a sweet tooth like I do you have to try out Soleil Bakery and pick up some SUGAR!! Cupcakes, cookies and bread OH MY! Keep heading down ROute 171 we are headed into Putnam for some great stops. Once into Putnam you will go over a river and after that you will see on your right Kennedy Drive. On the right is Rotary Park. There are some nice views of the river. Maybe get out and stretch your legs. Just before the end of the park is Bundy St - take a left there then a right on to Main to find the mother of all Antiques Stores. The store is called Antiques Marketplace on the corner of Main and Front St. This stop is going to be a while. 2 floors of glorious shopping. Then across the street is the Sawmill Pottery Store, Night Market Vintage Clothing store, Jeremiah's Antiques & Shoppes. When your done shopping get a bite to eat at 85 Main or a drink at Beer Hands Brewery. If your like me you will spend at least a few hours in this area alone. When your ready to head home Front St is also Route 44 head West. If its still light out you will see Frog Rock Summer Shack. Cool place to get some pics and a bite to eat if your still hungry. Still heading West on Route 44 you can break off (right) onto Route 74 and back to where we started. OR keep going down Route 44 West it will meet I84 in Manchester. If you've never been that way why not. Keep Exploring!

 

๐Ÿ“š โœˆ๏ธ Are you planning your next adventure across the United States? Make sure to bring along our unique Travel Word Search Book. As you flip through its pages, you'll embark on a journey through the USA like never before! With each turn, you'll discover interactive crosswords and engaging coloring pages that will guide you to iconic destinations and provide endless fun along the way!

Highlights:

  • ๐Ÿงฉ Word Search & Coloring Book: Experience the best of both worlds as this book combines these two beloved activities in one!
  • Travel Word Search: Solve engaging puzzles themed around famous US landmarks.
  • Travel Coloring Book: Color stunning illustrations of America's most renowned sites.
  • USA Travel Book: Your ultimate companion to unlock travel ideas and keep you entertained wherever you roam!

๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Whether you're taking a road trip or flying coast to coast, let this book be your guide to the wonders of the USA. Every page is a new adventure, waiting for you to explore! ๐ŸŒŸ

                                         Makes a great gift!

 

Have your Holiday list ready but no idea what to get? Check out this section every week for our latest Connecticut Crafters!

Are you a Crafter that lives in Connecticut? Click this Link to send us your information so we can include you in our next issue. 

 

The magic of crystals, minerals, and gems has captivated humanity for centuries, serving as both natural treasures and objects of adornment. Whether you're a seasoned collector or someone just beginning your journey into the world of minerals, there's always something new to discover! ๐ŸŒˆ

๐Ÿ›๏ธ **Explore Our Collection:** Each piece is carefully curated, ensuring it meets the highest quality standards while retaining its unique characteristics. From the subtle sparkle of quartz to the deep, vibrant hues of amethyst, our collection promises to bring joy and positive energy into your life.

๐ŸŒฟ **Ethically Sourced:** We are dedicated to ensuring that all our crystals and gems are sourced responsibly and sustainably. By building strong relationships with our suppliers, we ensure that our products are mined and crafted with respect to the environment and the communities involved.

๐Ÿ”ฎ **Begin Your Journey:** Join us in celebrating the beauty and mystery of the natural world with our handcrafted selection. Whether you're looking to ground your energy, find clarity, or simply add a touch of elegance to your home, our gems and minerals promise to bring a lifetime of joy and inspiration.

 

 

๐ŸŽจ **Discovering Passion:** Sometimes, the journey of life takes us away from the things we love, but it always finds a way to bring us back. If you've ever felt that stirring connection to a hobby or passion from your past, you'll resonate with the story of rediscovering ceramics.

The journey of ceramics is not measured by perfection but by the joy and serenity it brings.

So, if there's a hobby you've set aside, maybe it's time to pick it up and let it guide you to centers of fun and creativity! What will you create today? ๐ŸŒŸ

Visit our facebook today to see some of our creations and find out what event we will be at next.

 

12/1 - 12/31  Hubbard Park Lights - Meriden

12/28  Comic Book & Collectibles Show - Double Tree Hotel Bristol 

 

The Good Speed Opera House White Christmas Show the musical through Dec 31st

 

Logees Holiday Light Extraveganza Every Fri/Sa/Sun in December

 

Holiday Lights at Peoples Homes

Tiffany Court - East Hampton - Supporting the food bank. 

174 North Washington St - Plainville

Blue Orchard Drive - Middletown

Sand Hill Rd - Middletown

Eastbury Pond - Glastonbury

8 Pratt Rd - Dayville

 

SANTA TRAINS

Danbury Santa Train 

Essex Steam Train

Railroad Museum of Thomaston

New Haven Trolley Train Museum

 

Have an Event coming up?  Click this link and send us the info ASAP. Our issues come out on Thursdays just in time for weekend planning!

Sleigh & Wagon Rides ๐ŸŽ 

  • Wood Acres Farm (Terryville, CT): Enjoy private horse-drawn sleigh or wagon rides through the picturesque farm. Don't forget to call ahead to book your magical experience.
  • Star Hill Family Farm (Portland, CT): Experience enchanting horse-drawn wagon/sleigh tours featuring a cozy fireside stop. Head over to their website to book your Christmas adventure online.
  • Allegra Farm (East Haddam, CT): Delight in carriage/sleigh rides around the serene Lake Hayward and countryside. Make sure to book your ride privately.

 

Tips for Your Ride ๐Ÿ“

  • Book in Advance: Spots at popular farms, such as Wood Acres and Star Hill, require reservations to ensure your delightful ride.
  • Check for Santa: Some farms, like Star Hill, might surprise you with Santa and his elves during the rideโ€”so don't miss out on the fun!
  • Dress Warm: As it's a winter activity, do remember to bundle up and enjoy the cozy ride! ๐Ÿงฃ๐Ÿงค

 

 ๐ŸŽ† Major Drive-Through Events ๐ŸŽ†

Magic of Lights (East Hartford): Experience the magic of the holiday season with this spectacular mile-long drive-through display featuring digital animations and classic holiday scenes at Pratt & Whitney Stadium. Open through early January, this enchanting event promises a dazzling experience for everyone.

Fantasy of Lights (New Haven): A long-standing favorite at Lighthouse Point Park, this incredible display boasts over 100,000 lights and supports a great cause, benefiting Goodwill of Southern New England.

Hebron Lions Lights in Motion (Hebron): Prepare to be captivated by a stunning mile-long, digitally synchronized light show featuring over a million lights. It's running through the end of December and shouldn't be missed!

Holiday Lights at Lake Compounce (Bristol): Don't miss your final chance in 2025 to enjoy this spectacular holiday display featuring half a million lights throughout the amusement park. Make it a memorable outing!

โœจ Other Festive Options โœจ

Glow Hartford (Hartford): Delight in an indoor holiday light festival and market located at the Connecticut Convention Center, a perfect blend of illuminations and shopping.

Connecticut Trolley Museum (East Windsor): Hop aboard for a unique "Tunnel of Lights" experience with train rides offering magical views of illuminated displays.

Oakdale Theater (Wallingford): Known for its high-quality show, this drive-through light display is sure to impress visitors of all ages.

๐Ÿ” Tips for Visiting ๐Ÿ”

Book Tickets Online: To ensure a seamless experience, it's best to purchase your tickets in advance for popular events like Magic of Lights, which often require online reservations.

Check Dates: Events are typically available from late November through early January, so mark your calendars and plan your visits for an unforgettable holiday experience! ๐ŸŽ„

 

 

The article provides a list of holiday festivals and events happening in Connecticut in 2025.

Some of the events include tree lightings, Christmas markets, holiday parades, and winter festivals.

The list offers various activities for families and individuals to enjoy during the holiday season throughout the state.

Read More...

 

 

๐ŸŒŸ As we close out 2025 and welcome in 2026, the cosmic stage is set for a period of disciplined focus, courtesy of Capricorn season. This time is all about long-term goals and professional growth.

๐Ÿ’ซ Planetary Overview

  • Sun & Mars in Capricorn: Expect a surge of ambition, perfect for laying the groundwork for an exceptional 2026.
  • Venus in Capricorn (Starting December 24): Relationships take on themes of stability and commitment.
  • Mercury enters Capricorn (January 1, 2026): Enhance your communication skills and career planning acumen as the new year begins.
  • First Quarter Moon in Aries (December 27): You might feel a push in home life or family dynamics.

๐Ÿ”ฎ Horoscopes by Sign

  • Aries: Enhance your career and public persona, gearing up for major transformations in 2026.
  • Taurus: Embrace adventure with major financial breakthroughs on the horizon.
  • Gemini: Navigate relationship and financial dynamics carefully to avoid potential misunderstandings.
  • Cancer: This is a peak period for partnerships; healing energies are in the air.
  • Leo: Pay attention to health and practical matters while nurturing new creative ideas for 2026.
  • Virgo: Potential abounds for personal desires. Focus on home and family responsibilities.
  • Libra: New ideas are stirring, shifting your perspectives, particularly noticeable on December 25.
  • Scorpio: Concentrate on your "roots" with an enhanced focus on home care.
  • Sagittarius: Mars energizes you, prompting you to seize control of life while anticipating temporary delays during Christmas.
  • Capricorn: It's time to shine! With Sun, Mars, and Venus aligning, it's time to invest in personal growth.
  • Aquarius: Gaining clarity in vision and values, you should begin charting financial goals for the coming year.
  • Pisces: Reflect on past growth and recognize heightened sensitivity around December 24.

 

 

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