Don't Miss Out! The Exciting Traditions That Define Late Year in Old Wethersfield.

By: Jenevieve Haggerty, Madelyn Albright & Elli Avdimetaj - Nov 11, 2025

Old Wethersfield, the initial town founded in 1634 of Wethersfield, CT has the most exciting traditions just for you! If you are interested in fun little events hosted by a traditional old town, the later months of the year may be a good idea to check this town out.

Cove Carnival

Around mid-October every year, Old Wethersfield annually holds the Cove Carnival, a festive fair for all to be a part of, located in Cove park. This carnival is hosted by the Keane Foundation, an organization that was established in 2001 after the tragic 9/11 incident following the deaths of three individuals living in Old Wethersfield. The organization was named after Richard M. Keane, one of the individuals that had passed. Since then, the Keane Foundation has hosted a multitude of programs for children and adults alike to benefit from.  

The Cove Carnival that was hosted this year has been a popular event throughout the October weekend, starting on Friday, Oct. 17. Prices change annually, often increasing. As of 2025, wristbands have increased $10 marking it a total of $30 for one. 

There had been some significant  changes to rides earning many opinions. For instance, the famous ‘Air Force One’ attraction flipping across the air returned with the new name ‘Zeus’. To accompany it, an anti-gravity ride known as ‘Casino’ was introduced into the mix earning lots of attention. As many things blossom into the carnival itself, many of those attending found some modifications to be a downside of the event. 

Wethersfield High School senior Rosie Thigpen had a strong opinion regarding the resident favorite, ‘Rock n’ Roll’, being replaced with ‘Flying Bobs, saying, “The replacement for Rock ‘N Roll was a little slow and prices were a bit high this year. I didn’t really bring enough money that was needed, but it was fun to walk around with my friends.” 

Many were concerned about the assortment of attractions this year while others worried about the initial costs of it all. However, the fair still gained immense popularity proving itself as a validating spot for many to be with those they cherish. 

As the Cove lasts three days, it is recommended that families come around Sunday with their children. It is the shortest day of the carnival and remains during the day. Friday and Saturday are typically for the adolescents, where events are held through afternoon and night as school is out. All days are available to the public but this remains to be the typical pattern.

---

Scarecrows on Main

With the rustling of leaves every autumn comes the rustling of hay, as over 70 hand-made Scarecrowns are being mounted along Main Street in Old Wethersfield. Individuals, families, groups, companies, and organizations donate each year to reserve their spot where they will add their contribution to the widely diverse and creative designs. The event is led by the Old Wethersfield Shopkeepers Association (OWSA), who keeps track of the display spots.

The scarecrows were lined up on Main Street all the way from State Street to Garden Street for the full month of October, displayed for pedestrians to admire during their fall walks. A frequent commuter to Griffith Academy on Main Street for her dance classes, Brie Davis, comments on the many festive designs. 

---

“I am always in old Wethersfield. I have dance there, and my friends and I loved to see them during our breaks.” Her favorites included the Wethersfield cheerleading and football programs’ displays, and the Happy Gilmore scarecrow. “I love the play one, but I am probably biased. Otherwise I would say the cheerleading and football one, or the Happy Gilmore one.”


Davis has also contributed to decorating the street, as she had helped the Wethersfield High School Theater Program create their display. “I was part of the She Kills Monsters scarecrow for the Wethersfield High Theater program. Come see the show in a few weeks [starting Nov. 14]!” 

Scarecrows on Main is a wonderful, flexible and free fall activity to complete on your autumn bucket list. Stop by next October to participate in the Old Wethersfield tradition, and see which scarecrow is your favorite! 

---

Holidays on Main

Holidays on Main is an annual Christmas tradition in Old Wethersfield. Organized by the Wethersfield Chamber of Commerce, this event provides numerous activities for all ages. 
These activities include food and craft vendors, horse and carriage rides, caroling, a silent auction at the Webb Barn, and a visit from Santa Clause.

Local small businesses set up tents throughout main street, while the businesses and shops of Old Wethersfield offer warmth, refreshments, and entertainment to the public.

 The main event of the night is the tree lighting, where a big tree in the middle of Old Wethersfield is decorated with Christmas lights and lit up. The tree stays lit all Christmas season and the lights get taken down after New Years. 

This year, Holidays on Main is on Thursday, December 4 from 5 pm - 8:30 pm. The tree lighting will take place at 6:15 pm.

Whether you’re taking pictures of scarecrows, riding a ferris wheel or admiring the lights on the Christmas tree on Main St, Old Wethersfield offers a full calendar of events designed to build lasting memories. Add to your schedule and come be a part of the oldest town's ongoing traditions!

Photo Credit: Swing Attraction taken by @kellykamayphotography
Carousel taken by Wethersfield High School senior Madison Tracy 
Christmas Tree taken by Wethersfield Community
Barbie and Cowgirl Scarecrows taken by Wethersfield Community

---