Our Favorite Mystic Winter Events

Our Favorite Mystic Winter Events

We all know that Mystic is a perfect Summer escape, but true lovers of Mystic know that the Holiday Season brings its own special kind of Magic with our upcoming favorite winter mystic events.  From the beautifully decorated storefronts to the splendor of the first snow, Mystic has emerged as a perfect year-round getaway.

Our little town still knows how to pack a punch when it comes to Winter events.  We’ve compiled a list of “Our Favorite Mystic Winter Events” complete with shopping, living plays, and thousands of luminaries.

Lighted Boat Parade & Santa Arriving by Tugboat

A vessel dressed and ready for the Lighted Boat Parade in Mystic CT, one of our favorite mystic winter events
Photo Courtesy of Downtown Mystic Merchants

Where:  Mystic River Park
When:  November 25th – all day event

Start the day with a visit from Santa as he arrives on a 60’ Tugboat on the Mystic River at 2 pm.  Gather the little ones for a visit and photo as he hears what wishes and dreams the children have for this year’s holiday.

Enjoy the day with a lunch at one of the area’s fabulous restaurants and work on some early holiday shopping in Downtown.  Be sure to head back to the park for the 6 pm tree lighting followed by the Lighted Boat Parade.

The Lighted Boat Parade can be viewed from either side of the river, beginning at 6:20 pm.  The decorated vessels will head downriver while judges give out awards for Most Charismatic Crew, innovative Vessel, Best Dressed Vessel, and Miss Mystic Vessel of Grandeur.

Lantern Light Tour

Where:  Mystic Seaport Museum
When:  November 24-December 22

Each holiday season the Mystic Seaport Museum present a 70-minute living play throughout the museum.  The theme for 2017 is “The Spirit of the Holiday:  A Christmas Ghost Story”.  During the tour visitors will be the viewer to five scenes including a visit from St. Nick himself and a horse and carriage ride.

This annual holiday event is perfect for families or for a special holiday date night.  Create your own holiday tradition this year as you learn about some unexpected traditions from 1876 and learn about the true Spirit of the Holiday.

Be sure to ask about our one and two-night Lantern Light Tour Packages when booking your December reservations at The Whaler’s Inn or book your tickets here!

Photo courtesy of Mystic Seaport Museum

Holiday Carnival and Gingerbread House Contest

Where: Olde Mistick Village
When:  December 2nd, 11:00 am

Enjoy holiday music and performers throughout the day at the Olde Mistick Village.  Stop by and share your Christmas wishes with Santa and Mrs. Claus.  Visit the various shops and restaurants and cast your vote for your favorite Gingerbread house.  Houses are created by three categories of participants:  1) individual or Family, 2) Restaurant/Professional, 3) Small Business, Church or Community Group.

Holiday Stroll and Luminaria

Holiday Stroll in Downtown Mystic
Photo courtesy of Mystic Country

Where:  Downtown Mystic CT
When:  December 5th – 6 pm

Stroll the decorated streets of Downtown Mystic as you start your holiday shopping.  Basque in the glow of hundreds of luminarias lining the main and side streets of Mystic as you’re serenaded by Christmas Carolers.  Warm up with refreshments throughout the stores as they stay open a bit later ensuring you find that perfect gift.

Just outside the doors of The Whaler’s Inn, this event brings visitors back year after year.  Wrap your gifts in the comfort of our hospitality room and warm up with some hot chocolate and cookies.

Festival Of Lights

Where:  Mystic Aquarium & Olde Mistick Village
When:  December 8th, 5:00pm-9:30pm

Visit the Mystic Aquarium with free admission when you bring a non-perishable food item for donation to the Gemma E. Moran United Way Labor Food Center.  See Santa on land and underwater as he goes diving with his elves.  Explore the Aquarium exhibits and be greeted by storytellers and other entertainment.  Stroll from the Aquarium to the Olde Mistick Village within walkways lit by over 4,000 luminaries.  Enjoy live music, shopping, and holiday decorations as you meander through the winter wonderland.

Plan Your Getaway with Our Favorite Mystic Winter Events

While these are “Our Favorite Mystic Winter Events”, we’ve just brushed the surface of all that the area has to offer during this magical time.  Be sure to check our calendar of events when booking your next stay with us at The Whaler’s Inn!