Haunting Holiday Tales
Step back into Mystic’s ghostly past on a lantern-lit stroll through its historic waterfront streets. Discover centuries-old Christmas traditions, eerie New England legends, and the timeless connection between the holidays and the supernatural. A spirited tribute to Dickensian storytelling and Mystic’s haunted heritage.
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$30 USD
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Ages 11+
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1 Hour 45 Minutes
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Connecticut, United States
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Stonington
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- Victorian Ghost Traditions
- Lantern-Lit Walking Tour
- Historical Folklore & Mystery
- Downtown Mystic History
- Christmas Spirits & Legends
- Local Paranormal Lore
- Photographic Opportunities
- Storyteller-Led Experience
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- 1 hour 45-minute guided walking tour; professional historian guide; holiday ghost storytelling; lantern-lit route through downtown Mystic.
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- Warm layers, sturdy walking shoes, and an umbrella in case of rain. Cameras welcome.
Ghosts of Christmas Past Downtown Stroll Features
Victorian Ghost Traditions
Uncover why ghost stories were once a Christmas Eve custom, told to celebrate the season of shadows and light.
Lantern-Lit Walking Tour
Follow your guide by lantern glow through the snowy streets of downtown Mystic.
Historical Folklore & Mystery
Learn how New England folklore, ancient Solstice rites, and seafarers’ superstitions shaped local Christmas tales.
Ghosts of Christmas Past Downtown Stroll Details
- Highlights
- Description
- Itinerary
- Price & Availability
- Food & Drink
- Instructions
- Restrictions
- Transportation
Highlights
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Victorian Ghost Traditions
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Lantern-Lit Walking Tour
-
Historical Folklore & Mystery
-
Downtown Mystic History
-
Christmas Spirits & Legends
-
Local Paranormal Lore
-
Photographic Opportunities
-
Storyteller-Led Experience
Description
Join Seaside Shadows for a hauntingly festive walk through Mystic’s historic downtown. This guided storytelling tour revives the forgotten Victorian custom of telling ghost stories at Christmastime. Hear of eerie Christmas Eve parlor games, mysterious spirits that haunt the wharves, and ancient holiday creatures from Celtic and Colonial lore. With flickering lanterns and centuries-old buildings as your backdrop, you’ll feel the echoes of Christmases long past come alive along the Mystic River.
Itinerary
4:45 PM — Arrive at Liberty Pole Square, near S & P Oyster House
5:00 PM — Begin lantern-lit walking tour of downtown Mystic
5:15 PM — Hear tales of eerie Christmas spirits and Victorian ghost traditions
6:00 PM — Visit haunted landmarks tied to Mystic’s maritime past
6:30 PM — Capture photos and listen for caroling phantoms along the riverfront
6:45 PM — Return to Liberty Pole Square with your guide for final stories
Price & Availability
$30 per person. All sales final. Operates rain or shine; only canceled for dangerous weather or emergency.
Food & Drink
No food or drinks included. Local cafés and pubs nearby for pre- or post-tour refreshment.
Instructions
Meet at the anchor at Liberty Pole Square (next to S & P Oyster House). Street and paid parking nearby.
Restrictions
Not suitable for pets. Guests should be comfortable walking one mile. Ages 11+ recommended.
Transportation
Guests self-drive to downtown Mystic. Parking available on East Main, Holmes, and nearby lots.






