What are the must-see annual events in Mystic, CT?

The Mystic Outdoor Art Festival in August, Mystic Seaport's Lantern Light Tours in December, and the Mystic Irish Parade in March are the three locals tell every visitor not to miss.

What's happening in Mystic this weekend?

Current and upcoming Mystic events — festivals, Seaport programs, live music and weekend happenings — are listed on our sister site BestofMystic.online, the Mystic Digital Network's live events calendar. This page covers the annual events locals recommend.

Are Mystic events free?

Many are — Stroll Downtown Mystic, the Bascule Bridge openings and most parades are free to attend. Mystic Seaport tours, the Outdoor Art Festival and ticketed concerts charge admission.

Where do most Mystic events take place?

Downtown Mystic (Main Street and the bascule bridge), Mystic Seaport Museum, Olde Mistick Village and Stonington Borough host the bulk of the area's festivals, holiday events and parades.

How do I submit a Mystic event?

Event organizers can submit events through BestofMystic.online, our network's live events calendar. Submissions are reviewed before they appear.

Best Events & Things To Do

Name: Best of Mystic
Address: Mystic, CT, 06355, US
Price range: Free

Festivals, giveaways, and can't-miss local happenings

Mystic Events & Happenings

Crowds gathered watching the Mystic CT bascule bridge open

Illustrative image

When the bridge goes up — Mystic stops to watch

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Top Pick

#1 · Editorial selection

Mystic Outdoor Art Festival

Local Guide Verdict
Juried outdoor art festival. A beloved summer tradition.

Downtown MysticFestivalSummer

#2 · Editorial selection

Mystic Seaport Lantern Light Tours

Local Guide Verdict
Holiday magic with carolers, horse-drawn carriages, and candlelit maritime village.

Mystic SeaportHolidayMust See

#3 · Editorial selection

Mystic Irish Parade

Local Guide Verdict
One of the region's most spirited parades. Irish pride on full display.

Downtown MysticParadeSpring

#4 · Editorial selection

Stroll Downtown Mystic

Local Guide Verdict
Stroll within the action and vibrance of Downtown Mystic — galleries, shops, sidewalk cafés, and the bascule bridge in motion.

Downtown MysticStrollDowntown

#5 · Editorial selection

Mystic Garlic Festival

Local Guide Verdict
Garlic lovers unite! Local vendors, live music, and all things garlic.

Olde Mistick VillageFoodFestival

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