Nov. 25-30: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Can you believe this holiday favorite is turning 50 years old? At the Bushnell Theatre in Hartford, the TV classic will come to life on stage. All of the loveable characters will be there - Santa and Mrs. Claus, Clarice, Hermey the Elf and Yukon Cornelius. Show runs 90 minutes long with 20 minute intermission. $21-$59. 

166 Capitol Avenue, Hartford

Nov. 26-30: Laser Quest
Get the blood flowing in Newington for some live action laser tag. They’re running a triple play special for the long weekend. Reservations are recommended. Going from Wednesday-Sunday, one person can play three games in the same day for only $21.

3005 Berlin Turnpike, Newington

Nov. 27: Manchester Road Race
Take part or just spectate in this Thanksgiving tradition running 78 years strong. The 4.748 mile race attracts 15,000 people; everything from world class runners to some who dress in colorful and funky costumes. Live bands will be playing throughout the course. Race time is 10am, but due to crowds, you'll want to arrive early. 

Main Street, Manchester

Nov. 28: Frozen Fun For Everyone Cooking Class 
To celebrate the frigid season and everyone's favorite movie, come to Stew Leonard's in Newington for this cooking class where you'll make snowman cupcakes, blue cupcakes with white chocolate snowflakes, and ice princess braided pretzels. A snowflake box will be provided to bring home all the goodies. For ages 6 and up.

3475 Berlin Turnpike, Newington

Nov. 28: Hartford Wolf Pack Hockey Game
There is nothing like live hockey, so head down to the XL Center in Hartford and watch the Wolf Pack host Norfolk at 7pm. Kids will love the fast action on the ice, the zamboni, and the music pumping through the arena. There will be a Black Friday promotion and prizes will be given away to lucky fans.

One Civic Center Plaza, Hartford

Nov. 28-30: Thanksgiving Weekend at the Harriett Beecher Stowe Center 
The Stowe house will be decorated and set for Thanksgiving, as Harriett celebrated with her large family and friends so many years ago. There will be an interactive 45-minute tour for all to enjoy. Get a jump on holiday shopping at the museum store, where you can find hand-crafted jewelry, home decor, dolls, ornaments and more.

77 Forest Street, Hartford 

Nov. 28-Dec. 13: Gingerbread House Festival  
10am-8pm on Friday, until 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. See rows of beautifully decorated gingerbread creations. Experienced and novice regional artists and bakers show off their talents at the Wood Memorial Library and Museum. 

783 Main Street, South Windsor

Nov. 28: Santa's Visit at New England Air Museum
Right near Bradley Airport, this museum is a kid favorite because you can climb into vintage aircraft and play pilot! Santa will be greeting visitors, posting for photos and give each child a small gift. You will also get a special behind-the-scenes tour of the facility.

36 Perimeter Road, Windsor Locks

Nov. 28-30: Bounce U 
This fun, indoor play space has inflatable bounce stadiums where kids can burn some energy. A great way for your child to socialize and exercise. There are various open bounce times to choose from during the weekend. Just call or check website to confirm times.

712 Brook St, Rocky Hill

Nov. 28-30: Roaring Brook Nature Center
Get the family together for a nature walk and enjoy the last of the fall foliage before all the trees are bare. You can see animals like an eagle, turkey vulture, snakes, turtles and more.

70 Gracey Road Canton

Nov. 29: Simsbury Celebrates
This holiday festival is a wonderful combination of street party and hands-on exhibits in the buildings along Hopmeadow Street. Take trolley rides, ride ponies, watch acrobats and snowboarders. Sip hot cocoa while you greet performers and enjoy holiday treats. Inside, you can decorate crafts, make cookies with Mrs. Claus, visit with Santa, view gingerbread demonstrations, watch live music and more! The night ends with a fireworks display. 

Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury 

Nov. 29-30: Brunch With Santa 
The beautiful Pond House Cafe at Elizabeth Park hosts one of the best Santa events around. You'll enjoy a scrumptious buffet brunch and have time to visit with Santa and the Mrs. New this year is a hot chocolate station on the renovated terrace, and a keepsake photo. Each child also gets to decorate a gingerbread house to take home. This is a popular event, so call ahead for tickets. 

1555 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford 

Originally published November 21, 2011.