Santa Arrives by Tugboat & The Lighted Boat Parade
Crowds gather to watch Santa Claus make his entrance aboard Cross Sound Ferry's tugboat, the John Paul. Children can meet Santa by the Christmas tree to share their wish lists and pose for photos. The arrival also features carolers, Christmas-themed items, and seasonal surprises.
What to Expect
Watch Santa arrive at the park aboard the tugboat John Paul.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Mystic
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and maritime
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 2:00 PM.
- Parking: For parking in residential areas, follow posted signs and respect the neighborhoods.
Tips & Advice
- Bring a camera when Santa arrives, because there are photo opportunities with Santa and Christmas-themed items by the Mystic River Park tree.
- Stay for the evening if you can, because the tree lighting in Mystic River Park is followed right away by the Lighted Boat Parade.
- Watch the parade from Gravel Street if the park dock is packed, but stay on the pavement and keep off people's grass and docks.
- If you're entering a boat, bring a toy to donate to the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center, which is the only requirement to take part.
- Leave paddleboards, kayaks and Jet Skis at home on parade night, because the Chamber asks that smaller watercraft stay off the river for safety.
Special Events & Promotions
- Artisan Market of Christmas crafts on Cottrell Street, closed to traffic all day.
- Christmas Tree Lighting in Mystic River Park that evening.
- The 22nd Annual Holiday Lighted Boat Parade begins right after the tree lighting, with prizes in five categories.
- VIP Viewing Party on the Mystic Museum of Art's riverside patio (separate ticket), with food from Gourmet Galley, heaters, and one bar drink included with an adult ticket.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What can kids do once Santa arrives?
Children can spend time with Santa by the Mystic River Park Christmas tree and tell him what they want for Christmas. There are also photo opportunities with Santa and Christmas-themed items, carolers and a few surprises.
What else is going on that day?
An Artisan Market runs on Cottrell Street, which is closed to traffic all day. In the evening the Mystic Christmas Tree is lit in Mystic River Park, and the Lighted Boat Parade starts right after.
Where's a good place to watch the Lighted Boat Parade?
Gravel Street closes to traffic so people can gather on the road to watch. The dock at Mystic River Park has limited viewing and can get crowded.
Can I enter my own boat in the parade?
Yes. Anyone can take part, and the only requirement is a toy donation to the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center, which is on site that day. Email info@mysticchamber.org to register.
Where should I park?
Parking options include the Mystic Museum of Art, Seaport Marine, Mystic Parking LLC and Union Baptist Church. If you park in a residential area, follow the posted signs and respect the neighborhood.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
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