Celebrate Thanksgiving Weekend in Mystic, CT 2024: Santa by Tugboat, Tree Lighting & Lighted Boat Parade! Santa by Tugboat? Yes, that’s right! Thanksgiving may be on Thursday, but in Mystic, CT, the magic keeps rolling like the tide all weekend long! On Saturday, November 30th, besides shopping for gifts, you’re invited by the […]
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Celebrate Thanksgiving Weekend in Mystic, CT 2024: Santa by Tugboat, Tree Lighting & Lighted Boat Parade!
Santa by Tugboat? Yes, that's right! Thanksgiving may be on Thursday, but in Mystic, CT, the magic keeps rolling like the tide all weekend long! On Saturday, November 30th, besides shopping for gifts, you’re invited by the Mystic Chamber of Commerce to set sail into the holiday season with a series of annual festive events, Santa by Tugboat, Tree Lighting & Lighted Boat Parade that is sure to win your heart over with Mystic festive charm. We've been taking our family here since I can remember, and I love to call it one of our annual Thanksgiving Day weekend traditions. Our adult boys are never tired of it!
Here’s what you can look forward to on Saturday, November 30th, 2024:
1. Santa Arrives by Tugboat 🎅
Time: 2:00 PM
Feel the crisp sea breeze as you stand by the Mystic River, waiting for Santa’s grand arrival—not by sleigh, but by tugboat! This local tradition is as unique as it is heartwarming. With the sound of bells mingling with the gentle waves, it’s a sight to see Santa’s red suit waving from the bow of a tugboat!
What to Expect: The crowd’s energy is palpable, with children’s laughter mixing with the chime of holiday bells. As Santa waves from the bow, you can almost hear the sound of sea spray in the air. Bring your camera to capture plenty of photo opportunities with Saint Nick himself!
2. Christmas Tree Lighting 🎄
[caption id="attachment_197963" align="alignleft" width="174"] Christmas Tree Lighting 2024[/caption]
Time: 6:00 PM
As dusk settles over Mystic, the town’s Christmas tree stands tall and dark in the Mystic River Park, waiting for the big moment. You’ll feel the anticipation build as everyone counts down together—then suddenly, the tree bursts into light, casting a warm glow across the riverfront. You can’t help but feel the spirit of the season upon you!
What to Expect: Bundle up and grab a warm drink as the scent of pine mixes with hot cocoa steam, and the carols fill the cool night air. It’s a perfect moment to hold your loved one close and bask in the holiday spirit that makes Mystic so magical ❤️
Find a cozy spot along the Mystic River as it comes alive with the glow of festively lit boats gliding through the water. It’s a maritime parade like no other, with each vessel twinkling like stars reflecting off the water’s surface.
What to Expect: Listen for the sound of horns as boats pass by, each decorated with a splash of holiday spirit. Some boats have twinkling sails, while others boast glowing reindeer and Santa himself at the helm. You’ll witness a sea of lights that’s sure to enchant sailors, young and old. There’s even a competition for the best-decorated vessel, adding a playful touch to the parade!
With these events, you’re bound to have an unforgettable Saturday in Mystic, filled with laughter, lights, and the kind of cheer that only a coastal New England town can deliver you. Perhaps you, too, will want to make this an annual Thanksgiving tradition, too! So, grab a warm drink, snuggle up in your coziest scarf, and let the holiday spirit wash over you like a gentle tide...🙂
Would you like to make a holiday trip of it and stay in one of our nautical abodes? We'd certainly love to have you stay for a magical Mystic getaway!
"Paul and Debbie were so helpful. (even before I arrived) and couldn’t be nicer. They made me feel like family. . They always wanted to ensure a memorable stay and they definitely succeeded at that. There are several very close by restaurants they recommended - so delicious! And the history of the building built in the early 1800s felt like being connected to an earlier era - less hectic. I hope to revisit. All the rooms were first class and very comfortable. Five stars!!!" Gary D. (Thank you so much, Gary!:)
Celebrate Thanksgiving Weekend in Mystic, CT 2024: Santa by Tugboat, Tree Lighting & Lighted Boat Parade!
by Deborah Bied
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Christmas Tree Lighting 2024[/caption]
Lighted Boat Parade[/caption]
Debbie Bied :-)[/caption]