Illustration of Santa in a red suit sitting in an armchair as a small child shows him a paper list beside a lit fireplace (Old Saybrook Torchlight Parade)

Old Saybrook Torchlight Parade

This long-standing Christmas tradition features Fife and Drum Corps from all over New England alongside holiday-themed floats designed by local businesses. Marchers light the route by carrying torches as they play Christmas music. Attendees who stay until the conclusion of the parade can see Santa Claus make an appearance as the guest of honor.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

When

Hours

6:00 PM.

Ages

All ages

Going?

Location

63 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and fans of holiday parades

Vibe

Festive and traditional

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Stay until the very end of the parade, because Santa Claus arrives as the guest of honor after the corps and floats have passed.
  • Dress warmly for a December evening outdoors, since you'll be standing along Main Street while the marchers go by with their torches.
  • Fife and drum corps, floats, marching units, pipe bands and militia groups that want to march can sign up through the parade's registration form.
  • Afterward, cast your votes for your favorite band, your favorite float and the entry with the most Christmas spirit.

Links & Contact

Run by The Old Saybrook Torchlight Parade

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's in the parade?

Fife and drum corps from all over New England, plus floats designed by local businesses, all with a Christmas theme and music.

Why is it called the Torchlight Parade?

The name comes from the torches the marchers carry along the route.

Will Santa be there?

Yes. Santa Claus is the guest of honor and comes at the very end of the parade.

Can my group march in the parade?

Yes. Fife and drum corps, floats, marching units, pipe bands and militia groups can sign up through the parade's registration form.

Can spectators vote for their favorites?

Yes. Parade-goers can vote for their favorite band, their favorite float, and the entry with the most Christmas spirit.

Browse Christmas in New London

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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