Some may think the celebration of all things Irish is over once St. Patrick’s Day has come and gone. However, we do things differently here in downtown Mystic. We keep the luck of the Irish going strong all month long with our beloved Mystic Irish Parade. A sea of green is slated to return to our community’s streets after a 2-year hiatus this Sunday, March 27th. We’re beyond excited to welcome this tradition back!
Volunteering is at the Heart of the Mystic Irish Parade
We feel incredibly lucky to be located directly on route in the midst of the action. It’s amazing to see the effort of small businesses and locals coming together to put on these incredible events.
The special sentiment of this parade is that it’s 100% volunteer-driven. The hard work of locals who come back each year to throw a spectacular event pays off. This dedication creates a day filled with Irish eyes smiling…
“As someone who has worked hard to create some of the wonderful events in Mystic, I am always amazed at how well the event is run and organized.
The entire event is run by volunteers and takes months to put together. Knowing that the amazing Mystic Irish Parade Event Committee puts in all this work makes watching the parade even more wondrous!
It truly speaks to the heart of the people of Mystic and how much they love this community.” -Amy Wagner, The Whaler’s Inn
How This Beloved Event Came to Be
According to Neil Ryan, Board Member of the Mystic Irish Parade, the idea formed when a couple of friends gathered at the local, Irish pub, The Harp and Hound.
They pondered, “Why isn’t there a parade in Mystic to celebrate Irish culture?” This one simple question lead to the birth of one of the biggest events in Mystic!
Neil says it’s all hands on deck when it comes to delighting guests from near and far, “A parade of this magnitude requires incredible teamwork, fervent commitment, and tireless efforts! It would not be possible without the core members of the Mystic Irish Parade Foundation.
They are the first to arrive and the last to leave on Parade Day. These volunteers also spend the entire year planning events, securing sponsorships, and promoting the parade. All this effort makes the parade the best it can possibly be!”
2022 marks the 17th year of this event, which means annual parade-goers have collected many memories of this special occasion.
Ryan says a fond favorite over the years is when the magnificent Clydesdales joined in the festivities and when The Red Hot Chili Pipers bagpiping band came into town. It’s exciting to see what’s in store for the future with moments like these!
Plan your Parade Weekend Getaway with The Whaler’s Inn
While the parade is the main event of the weekend, there are many other exciting things to do including the Mystic Irish 5K. It’s hard to fit all in one day, you may want to stay overnight! Our guests love returning to our inn to watch the traditions unfold, whether it’s from the comfort of our select rooms with parade views or spectating from our front porches.
Staying at The Whaler’s Inn is a simple way to gain access to this iconic event without the worry of parking or walking far distances to the can’t-miss action. Get in touch with our knowledgeable 24/7 Front Desk Team to create a seamless getaway for an unforgettable parade weekend.
Mystic Irish Parade Brunch at The Shipwright’s Daughter
We also have an exciting Irish Brunch lined up for you at The Shipwright’s Daughter. Enjoy a new vantage of the merriment while dining on delicious twists of Irish classics.
Executive Chef David Standridge’s curated menu features Irish “coddle” of poached seafood, Irish smoked cod chowder, corned beef benedict, and more. Reservations are required, save your spot on OpenTable!
