Taking a Pause This Season See You in 2027!

To keep our community safe and allow Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven time to heal after severe storm damage, Goodwill of Southern New England is resting our beloved annual Fantasy of Lights for 2026.

For more than 30 years, Fantasy of Lights has been a beloved holiday tradition for families throughout Connecticut and Rhode Island. Severe storm damage sustained across Lighthouse Point Park has left the grounds unsafe for large-scale public access, leading the City of New Haven and the Department of Parks and Recreation to determine that the park cannot safely accommodate the drive-through event this year.

While we share in the community’s disappointment, public safety and the restoration of the park must come first.

“We are deeply heartbroken to share that we cannot welcome our community, families, and friends to Lighthouse Point Park for our traditional light show this holiday season,” said H. Richard Borer, Jr., President and CEO of Goodwill of Southern New England.

Join Us for a Holiday Tree Lighting

Although the full drive-through display is canceled, Goodwill will host a small tree lighting ceremony at the Lighthouse Point Park pavilion on Thursday, November 19, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.

Neighbors, volunteers, longtime attendees, and supporters are invited to gather and celebrate the community spirit that has made Fantasy of Lights special for decades.

Help Keep Goodwill’s Mission Shining

Fantasy of Lights is Goodwill of Southern New England’s largest fundraising event, supporting employment training, educational programs, and essential services for individuals of all abilities, including people with disabilities and others facing barriers to employment.

The cancellation creates an unexpected funding shortfall for these vital programs. You can help by making a tax-deductible donation at goodwillsne.org or by shopping and donating at Goodwill stores and donation centers throughout Connecticut and Rhode Island.

We are deeply grateful to our volunteers, sponsors, partners, and community members who have supported Fantasy of Lights over the years. While the event takes a pause this season, we remain committed to our mission and hopeful for its return.

Thank you for helping Goodwill continue creating opportunities and changing lives.