How to Have a Hallmark Holiday in Mystic, CT

The backdrop to many of the strolling scenes in the movie, Olde Mistick Village is featured front and center in Mystic Christmas -- and for good reason! Yes, it's home to Mango's Wood-Fired Pizza Co. where the main character works and where you should certiainly stop for a hot and crusty pie, but it is also home to the Holiday Lights Spectacular, The Festival of Lights, and other seasonal holiday events, including of course, a visit with Santa. It is also home to some of the most unique shops around, perfect for holiday shopping and gift-giving. Stop in Alice in the Village, a hidden gem for the best bubble tea, some macarons and the perfect whimsical treasure; The Cloak and Wand, a new favorite spot for the magic lover on your list; and Sophia's Mystical Christmas and Toy Soldier great stores for classic holiday gifts. 

(Photo Credit: Olde Mistick Village) 

The holidays kicks off in downtown Mystic each year with the arrival of Santa by Tugboat and the famous Lighted Boat Parade. The Boat Parade was prominently featured in Mystic Christmas as a beloved annual tradition, and this is a very accurate portrayl. Don't take our word for it though, ask any local or just check out the crowds on parade day. It's most definitely the perfect way to start the season!

Through the holidays, downtown Mystic's halls are decked and there are amazing shops, restaurants and small businesses just waiting to welcome you. Some of our favorite shops include ADORE, Bank Square Books and Mystic Knotwork; and you can't go wrong with a visit to Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream or Sift Bakeshop (featured in Mystic Christmas) for a seasonal treat. 

Other holiday festivities downtown include a Holiday Stroll & Luminaria and A Very Merry Mystic. 

(Photo Credit: Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce) 

Mystic Seaport Museum and especially the village are especially festive this time of year. Their annual Lantern Light Village is the perfect way to experience the magic of a Mystic Christmas both past and present. Enjoy festive lighting displays, live music, horse and carriage rides, crackling fires, a visit to St. Nicholas, and more-including holiday-themed stories, crafts, and games! 

(Photo Credit: Mystic Seaport Museum) 

While beluga whales are adorable year-round, they look especially cute during the holidays, and you can experience them in a whole new way this year, with their newest event, Home for the Holidays. Wave at the whales as you beging your holiday stroll through their outdoor and indoor habitats taking in the sights and sounds of your favorite holiday themes. From the snowy Arctic Coast to the magical frozen tunnel of icicles, you will enjoy the magic of the holidays while getting access to the main indoor aquarium gallery, shark touch habitat, Arctic Coast beluga habitat, and newly-renovated courtyard decorated with dancing lights choreographed with your favorite holiday movie tunes. 

(Photo Credit: Mystic Aquarium) 

It wouldn't be the holidays without a Christmas tree, and Yetter Road has got some of the best! A fixture in holiday movies (The Holiday Fix Up), this charming, family-owned tree farm is the perfect place to cap off your Mystic holiday adventure. Grab a tree, some decor, or just a cup of cocoa and take in the smell of pine and the pretty views. 

(Photo Credit: Yetter Road Tree Farm)