Illustration of a santa visit scene (Old Saybrook Torchlight Parade)
Other Christmas Activities

Old Saybrook Torchlight Parade

This long-standing Christmas tradition features Fife and Drum Corps from all over New England alongside holiday-themed floats designed by local businesses. Marchers light the route by carrying torches as they play Christmas music. Attendees who stay until the conclusion of the parade can see Santa Claus make an appearance as the guest of honor.

What to Expect

Features torch-carrying marchers, fife and drum corps, and Santa Claus.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

The Old Saybrook Torchlight Parade

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and fans of holiday parades

Vibe

Festive and traditional

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Location

63 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Old Saybrook, CT

Know Before You Go

  • Hours: 6:00 PM.

Tips & Advice

  • Stay until the very end of the parade, because Santa Claus arrives as the guest of honor after the corps and floats have passed.
  • Dress warmly for a December evening outdoors, since you'll be standing along Main Street while the marchers go by with their torches.
  • Fife and drum corps, floats, marching units, pipe bands and militia groups that want to march can sign up through the parade's registration form.
  • Afterward, cast your votes for your favorite band, your favorite float and the entry with the most Christmas spirit.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What's in the parade?

Fife and drum corps from all over New England, plus floats designed by local businesses, all with a Christmas theme and music.

Why is it called the Torchlight Parade?

The name comes from the torches the marchers carry along the route.

Will Santa be there?

Yes. Santa Claus is the guest of honor and comes at the very end of the parade.

Can my group march in the parade?

Yes. Fife and drum corps, floats, marching units, pipe bands and militia groups can sign up through the parade's registration form.

Can spectators vote for their favorites?

Yes. Parade-goers can vote for their favorite band, their favorite float, and the entry with the most Christmas spirit.

Tags

paradesholiday traditionfamily friendlycommunity celebrationSanta visitsseasonal activitiesNew Years Eve

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team