At Christmastime, Mystic, Connecticut, Has the Most Enchanting Main Street in the Country

If you've ever been to historic downtown Mystic, Connecticut, you already know it's enchanting all year long, but this riverfront town truly lights up at Christmastime. From the lights throughout Olde Mistick Village to the boats on the river decked out to the nines to the massive Christmas tree in the park on Main Street, this quaint town will get you in the Christmas spirit in no time. This holiday season, head to Mystic to experience all of the holiday events and one of the most enchanting main streets in Connecticut. If you've never experienced Christmas in Connecticut, Mystic is certainly one of the most magical places to spend the holiday season.

Mystic, Connecticut, truly comes to life at Christmastime, making it a must-add to your bucket list. One of the surefire signs that it's finally the holiday season in Mystic is when Main Street lights up and the Christmas spirit fills the air. There's nothing quite like a Mystic, CT, at Christmas.

All of the small shops along Main Street participate in the holiday season, so no matter how much holiday shopping you have to do, you've come to the right place. Downtown Mystic is home to more than 80 independently owned shops that sell everything from chocolate and clothing to one-of-a-kind gifts and accessories. Grab a bite at one of the restaurants on Main Street after a bit of shopping. One of my favorite small towns in Connecticut, Mystic is always at the top of my itinerary when Christmastime rolls around. Little compares, especially during the holidays, to strolling through downtown Mystic, window shopping, buying gifts, and indulging in delicious food.

Besides Main Street, the whole town comes alive. The huge Christmas tree in Mystic River Park is the beacon that puts us all in the spirit with the holiday fun beginning the weekend after Thanksgiving. Santa arrives, via tugboat, in Mystic, leading up to the lighting of the Christmas tree and the Lighted Boat Parade.

A holiday carnival takes place at Olde Mistick Village, generally on a Saturday in early December, for a day of festive fun. The carnival features a full menu of family-friendly fun, including carolers, a band playing Christmas classics, and a gift shop called Santa's Workshop. Santa will also be on hand on select evenings in December to listen to children's wishes and pose for photos.

Feel the cheer on Main Street in Mystic, Connecticut, by adding the annual Holiday Stroll to your to-do list. Usually taking place in early December, Downtown Mystic's shops offer later hours; Santa stops by, and carolers serenade shoppers during this beloved holiday event.

For more information on Historic Downtown Mystic, visit the Connecticut Tourism Office website, or stop by the Facebook page of Visit Connecticut.

Have you ever experienced Christmas in Connecticut? Did you stroll down Main Street in Downtown Mystic? What are your favorite Christmas events in Connecticut? Let us know by filling out a nomination form. Then start making your holiday plans by adding some of the best Christmas towns in Connecticut to your must-visit list.

If you're looking for the perfect gifts for loved ones or something special for yourself this year, check out the OnlyInYourState Holiday Gift Guide.