Final answer:
The connotative meaning of "falling stars" is that the rain is beautiful and magical, similar to stars falling from the sky.
Step-by-step explanation:
The connotative meaning of the phrase "falling stars" in the given excerpt is that the raindrops falling on the city are beautiful and magical, similar to stars falling from the sky.
The use of this metaphor suggests that the rain brings a sense of awe and wonder to the city, just like watching falling stars in the night sky.