November 26th, 2016
2:00pm – 8:00pm

Mystic River Park
28C Cottrell Street
Mystic, CT 06355

Santa Claus is coming to town and so is Mystic’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade in Historic Downtown Mystic on November 26. Thousands gather at the Mystic River Park to watch Santa arrive at 2pm on a 60’ tug boat, the John Paul, to open his ears to the wishes of children waiting anxiously in line to see him.

After a brief break, festivities in the Park resume with the lighting of the Christmas tree at 6pm. Spectators then flood both sides of the Mystic River to see the decorated ships pass by. Entrance to participate in the 16th Annual Holiday Lighted Boat Parade only requires a toy or coat donation to the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center and it is open to the public. Decorated vessels parade down the Mystic River at 6:20pm and return to the Mystic River Park, where spectators and judges gather. Boats are judged on creativity and team spirit, and prizes are offered for Most Charismatic Crew, Innovative Vessel, Best Dressed Vessel, and Miss Mystic Vessel of Grandeur.