Santa Arrives by Tugboat and the Lighted Boat Parade are beloved traditions that take place in late November on Shop Small Saturday to kick off the holiday season. Santa makes his grand entrance from The North Pole into Mystic River Park aboard a tugboat, greeted by a crowd awaiting his arrival. Patrons can enjoy an Artisan Market on Cottrell Street. Later in the evening, the Christmas Tree in Mystic River Park is lit and immediately after, The Lighted Boat Parade starts. This unique combination of maritime tradition and holiday cheer draws families and visitors to Mystic, CT for a magical start to the holidays.
Artisan Market
Saturday, November 28, 2026 | Time TBD
Join us a group of Artisans on Cottrell Street for a Christmas craft market. Cottrell Street will be closed all day making for safe shopping fun!
Santa Arrives By Tugboat
Saturday, November 28, 2026 | 2:00 PM
Santa Claus is coming to town aboard Cross Sound Ferry's Tugboat, the John Paul. Bring your children to see Santa arrive and spend time by the Mystic River Park Christmas tree, telling Santa what they want for Christmas. There will be picture opportunities with Santa and Christmas themed items, Carolers and a few surprises!
Christmas Tree Lighting
Saturday, November 28, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Join us at Mystic River Park to Officially Light the Mystic Christmas Tree for this 2026 Christmas Season.
Lighted Boat Parade
Saturday, November 28, 2026 | 6:15 PM
Spectators and passersby line both sides of the Mystic River to watch as decorated boats pass by in the 22nd Annual Holiday Lighted Boat Parade. Interested in showcasing your boat for the Lighted Boat Parade. Participation is open to the public and only requires a toy donation to the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center which will be on site the day of.
Come and see as decorated vessels parade down the Mystic River just after 6PM and return to the Mystic River Park, where spectators and judges gather. Boats are judged on creativity and team spirit, with prizes offered in five categories: 'Most Charismatic Crew', 'Innovative Vessel', 'Best Dressed Vessel', 'Most Holiday Spirit' and 'Miss Mystic Vessel of Grandeur'.
Is your boat still in the water through the holiday season? Decorate your vessel and participate in the 2026 Holiday Lighted Boat Parade. Email info@mysticchamber.org for registration and more details.
For Everyone's Safety, Please keep your smaller water crafts including paddleboards, kayaks and Jet Skis Home for this event.
WHERE TO WATCH THE PARADE IN MYSTIC
Gravel Street
Gravel Street will close by 6pm to allow for people to gather on the road to view the Parade. We ask that you please stay on the pavement and keep off of people's grass and docks.
Mystic River Park
On the Dock at the Park has limited viewing and can be crowded.
VIP Viewing Party at Mystic Museum of Art
View the beloved Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce Lighted Boat Parade from the riverside patio of the Mystic Museum of Art. This VIP event will give you access to an unencumbered area to view the parade, food provided by Gourmet Galley and heaters to keep warm. Adult VIP Ticket includes one bar drink.
PARKING
If parking in residential areas, please abide by all posted signs and respect the neighborhoods. Thank you!
SPONSORS FOR EVENT
