The Fairfield Beach Association is sharing the following update from the Town of Fairfield and the Fairfield Police Department ahead of SantaCon on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
According to the Town, there is no public SantaCon event in Fairfield this year. The only sanctioned activity is a private, ticketed event hosted by Fairfield University for its students and their registered guests. It is not open to the public, and attendees must show valid ID; only those 21 and older may consume alcohol.
Town officials noted that in 2024, thousands of college-aged individuals descended on the beach area, creating serious safety hazards, straining emergency services, and disrupting residential neighborhoods. Much of Fairfield’s shoreline consists of private property or private beach associations, which are not open to the general public. In response, the Town, Fairfield Police, and Fairfield University developed a more controlled plan for 2025.
The Police Department reports that unauthorized social media accounts have circulated false information suggesting additional SantaCon gatherings in Fairfield. These posts are inaccurate and under review. Anyone without a ticket to the private Fairfield University event will be turned away.
To protect public safety, the Town says Fairfield Police — along with Fairfield University Public Safety, the State’s Attorney’s Office, mutual-aid partners, private security, and the Emergency Management Team — will maintain a substantial presence throughout the beach area and downtown. Parking restrictions in the beach district will be strictly enforced, and illegally parked vehicles will be ticketed and towed. All violations of law, including trespassing, open-container violations, and disorderly conduct, will be addressed immediately.
Chief Michael Paris reiterated that disruptive or unlawful behavior will not be tolerated, emphasizing that the Town’s response reflects lessons learned from 2024. First Selectman Christine Vitale echoed that message, urging anyone considering traveling to Fairfield for a public SantaCon gathering not to come.
Residents with questions can refer to the Town and Police Department’s official communications for further updates.
The Fairfield Beach Association (FBA) was founded in 1955 as a way to give Fairfield Beach residents a unified voice in local matters affecting safety, livability, and the environment. Over the decades, it has grown into a trusted, representative organization advocating on behalf of more than 3,000 residents and 1,300 households across the beach area — from Old Post Road to Beach Road and from Reef Road to the end of Fairfield Beach Road.
FBA operates as a registered 501(c)(4) nonprofit civic association, which means it exists solely to promote the welfare of the community, not for profit. Our members include year-round homeowners, seasonal residents, and local partners who share a commitment to maintaining the integrity, safety, and natural beauty of Fairfield Beach. Through regular meetings, town collaboration, and community events, FBA helps build stronger relationships among neighbors and ensures that every resident has a voice in shaping the future of the shoreline.
Scott Hirsh, President
Fairfield Beach Association
fbra06824@gmail.com