If you’re anything like me, you’d make any excuse to head to Lake Compounce—no matter the time of year. Lake Compounce capitalizes on this by providing us with seasonal attractions that keep us coming back whether it’s 90 degrees or 40 degrees: in the summer it’s got rides and the water park; in the fall it’s got The Haunted Graveyard; and in the winter it’s got the Holiday Lights.
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Lights! And the Tallest Christmas Tree in Connecticut
In addition to sporting thousands of holiday lights and spectacular light shows set to music (every half hour!) the park is home to the tallest Christmas tree in Connecticut, which stands at 100 feet tall. There’s a nightly tree-lighting ceremony featuring special guests. This is the fifth year that the park has held its annual Christmas-themed events, and each year brings with it new decorations and light displays. Even if you’ve gone before, it’s worth checking out again!
Even Santa can’t bear to miss a trip to Lake Compounce!
Rides!
If you’re always bummed out by the end-of-summer rush to get you last fill of rides, you’re in luck: Select rides are open during the Holiday lights event, as long as the weather’s not too bad. They include American Flyers, Bumper Cars, North Pole Express, the Carousel, Twister, Zoomer’s Gas N’ Go, Caterpillar Train, Drop Zone, Drum Circus, Flying Elephants, Jolly Jester, Kiddie Coaster, Little Critters, Little Dare Devils, and Rainbow Riders.
A helpful sign directing you to all of the holiday attractions
Holiday Activities for Families
In addition to the lights, tree, and rides, there are a slew of activities that you and your family can participate in to get into the holiday spirit. These are perfect for adults and small kids alike, and include:
- A ride on the North Pole Railway
- Caroling
- Costumed guests
- Fire pits for staying warm and toasty
- Balloon animal experts
- An ice carver creating gorgeous winter-themed carvings
- Pictures with Santa (for an additional fee)
- Cookie decorating and letter-writing to Santa (for an additional fee)
- Shops full of holiday gifts so you can get your shopping done while having fun
- Unique food trucks
Story time with Mrs. Claus
New Holiday Lights Activities for 2017
2017 brings with it a brand new way to enjoy the holiday lights at Lake Compounce: Dinner with Santa! On December 2, 9, 16, and 23, visitors will be able to eat dinner (from 2 to 3:30pm), and will then be able to visit with Santa for stories, pictures, and more. After visiting with Santa, you can enjoy the rest of the park at will. Admission for this event is $29.99 for adults, $23.99 for children aged 4 to 10, and Free for children 3 and younger.
Helpful Information
Where: Lake Compounce Family Theme Park, 186 Enterprise Drive, Bristol
When: Fridays from 5pm–9pm, Saturdays and Sundays from 4pm–9pm, until December 18
Cost: Tickets are $12.99 for adults if bought online and $15.99 if bought at the gate, $10.99 for children 10 & younger and for Seniors (60+), and free for children 3 and younger.
