Stonington’s Lobster Trap Tree Lighting: A Holiday Tradition Worth the Trip

November 2026 in Mystic Country: Holiday Lights, Shopping & Things to Do

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 18:15:54 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

November 2026 in Mystic Country: Holiday Lights, Shopping, Coastal Traditions & Things to Do

Discover the best November events near Mystic, Preston, Stonington, Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun.

As autumn settles into the Connecticut countryside and the holiday season approaches, November brings a special kind of charm to Mystic Country. From sparkling holiday lights and waterfront celebrations to boutique shopping, wineries, casino entertainment, and cozy weekend getaways, southeastern Connecticut offers plenty of reasons to visit.

Located in peaceful Preston, Connecticut, The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake is the perfect home base for exploring the season. Our historic 1804 farmhouse, overlooking the vineyards and Amos Lake, offers a relaxing countryside retreat just minutes from Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mohegan Sun, Mystic, and the Connecticut shoreline.

Here are some of our favorite things to experience this November!

✨ Olde Mistick Village Holiday Lights Spectacular

Beginning November 20, 2026 | Mystic, CT

One of the region's most anticipated holiday traditions returns as Olde Mistick Village transforms into a sparkling wonderland with more than half a million holiday lights.

Stroll along illuminated walkways, browse specialty shops, find unique gifts, and enjoy dinner at one of the village restaurants.

The lights begin at 5 PM each evening, with free admission and parking. It's a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season!

Learn more: https://oldemistickvillage.com

�� Stonington Lobster Trap Tree Lighting

Saturday, November 21, 2026 | 4:30 PM

There's nothing quite like Christmas on the Connecticut shoreline!

Historic Stonington Borough celebrates the season with its famous Lobster Trap Tree, a beautiful coastal Christmas display featuring stacked lobster traps, colorful hand-painted buoys, and thousands of twinkling lights.

Make an afternoon of your visit by exploring Stonington's charming shops, restaurants, galleries, and scenic waterfront before the evening lighting.

The tree remains on display into early January, making it a wonderful stop throughout the holiday season.

Event details: https://www.lobstertraptree.com

⛵ Mystic Holiday Lighted Boat Parade

Saturday, November 28, 2026 | Downtown Mystic

One of Mystic's most beloved holiday celebrations returns Thanksgiving weekend!

The festivities begin with a holiday artisan market, followed by Santa's arrival aboard a tugboat at 2 PM. At 6 PM, the downtown Christmas tree is illuminated, and shortly afterward, beautifully decorated boats parade along the Mystic River.

The waterfront comes alive with sparkling lights, holiday music, decorated vessels, and the unmistakable charm of a New England Christmas.

Arrive early, enjoy a leisurely dinner, and explore the boutiques and shops of Downtown Mystic.

Event details: https://gomystic.org/lighted-boat-parade/

��️ Holiday Shopping at Foxwoods, Mystic & Stonington

November is a wonderful time to get a head start on holiday shopping, especially with so many unique shopping destinations nearby.

Tanger Outlets at Foxwoods: Shop your favorite designer and name brands, then enjoy dining, entertainment, or an evening at Foxwoods Resort Casino.

Olde Mistick Village: Discover specialty boutiques, handmade gifts, gourmet treats, and festive holiday displays.

Downtown Mystic: Explore charming shops, galleries, clothing boutiques, home décor, and waterfront restaurants.

Stonington Borough: Find one-of-a-kind gifts, antiques, artisan creations, and beautiful coastal scenery.

Downtown Westerly, Rhode Island: Just across the state line, Westerly offers inviting shops, restaurants, and classic small-town New England charm.

For visitors who prefer a more relaxed holiday shopping experience, why not turn a busy shopping day into a peaceful two-night getaway?

�� November Holiday Markets

Looking for locally made gifts and seasonal treasures?

November 28 – Outer Light Brewing Holiday Market, Groton

From noon until 6 PM, enjoy local vendors, holiday shopping, craft beverages, and seasonal festivities. Horse-drawn carriage rides are scheduled from 3–5 PM, with a tree lighting at 6 PM.

It's another fun way to celebrate Small Business Saturday while discovering local businesses and makers.

�� November Entertainment at Foxwoods & Mohegan Sun

November also brings exciting concerts, comedy, dining, and entertainment to southeastern Connecticut's two major casino resorts.

Foxwoods Resort Casino , just minutes from our inn, has a November lineup that includes Shaggy, Jo Koy, Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Evening, The Temptations, and Matteo Bocelli.

Mohegan Sun features concerts, special events, and seasonal attractions, including Metallica on November 19 and the opening of The Legend of the Titanic exhibition on November 20.

Whether you're planning a special date night, a concert getaway, or dinner and a show, you can enjoy the excitement of the casinos and return to the quiet, relaxing setting of The Cottage Inn afterward.

Entertainment schedules:

Foxwoods: https://www.foxwoods.com

Mohegan Sun: https://mohegansun.com

�� Explore Connecticut Wine Country & Scenic Shoreline Villages

November isn't just about holiday shopping and celebrations. It's also a beautiful time to slow down and enjoy our region's countryside, coastal communities, and local flavors.

Visit nearby wineries such as Jonathan Edwards Winery in North Stonington or Saltwater Farm Vineyard in Stonington. Explore local breweries, including Shunock River Brewery, or spend an afternoon discovering the maritime heritage of Mystic Seaport Museum.

Take a scenic drive through Preston, North Stonington, and the surrounding countryside, then enjoy a waterfront meal in Mystic or Stonington Borough.

With fewer summer crowds, November offers a quieter and more intimate way to experience the Connecticut shoreline.

�� Make It a November Getaway at The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake

After a day of holiday shopping, exploring, or taking in a concert, return to the peaceful charm of The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake .

Our beautifully restored 1804 farmhouse offers five individually appointed king suites, each with a private bathroom, along with picturesque lake and vineyard views, comfortable gathering spaces, complimentary continental breakfast, Wi-Fi, and free parking.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, visiting family over Thanksgiving, enjoying a casino show, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, our boutique country inn offers a welcoming retreat close to it all.

�� Holiday Shopping Weekday Special — Save 10%

Planning a holiday shopping getaway?

Book two nights or more, Sunday through Thursday, and save 10% when you book directly with us!

Valid on eligible stays November 1, 2026, through January 1, 2027.

Spend your days shopping and exploring Mystic Country, then return to the comfort and tranquility of our historic lakeside inn.

Book Your November Getaway:
https://www.thecottageinnatamoslake.com

We Look Forward to Welcoming You!

There's something special about November in Mystic Country. The excitement of the approaching holidays, the charm of our coastal villages, and the peaceful beauty of the Connecticut countryside make this a wonderful time to visit.

Whether you're returning for another stay or discovering The Cottage Inn for the first time, we look forward to sharing this beautiful season with you.

Warmly,

John & Lenny

The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake
Preston, Connecticut

Please confirm event schedules, ticket availability, and seasonal operating hours with individual venues before visiting.

Stonington’s Lobster Trap Tree Lighting: A Holiday Tradition Worth the Trip

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 00:22:40 GMT

A Holiday Tradition Worth the Trip

Stonington’s Lobster Trap Tree Lighting:

A Holiday Tradition Worth the Trip

The holidays are arriving in southeastern Connecticut, and one of the shoreline’s most unique Christmas traditions returns this November — the Stonington Lobster Trap Tree . The 6th Annual Stonington Lobster Trap Tree Lighting takes place Saturday, November 21, 2026, beginning at 4:30 PM at the Stonington Town Dock at 1 High Street in Stonington Borough. Admission is free. The spectacular tree will then remain on display through January 3, 2027 . If you're looking for a reason to plan a November or December getaway to southeastern Connecticut, this is a great place to start.

A Christmas Tree With a Connecticut Shoreline Twist

This isn't your typical Christmas tree.

The Stonington Lobster Trap Tree is constructed from stacked lobster traps and illuminated with thousands of colorful lights. Decorating the structure are hand-painted buoys created by professional artists and local families, turning the entire display into an outdoor holiday art exhibit. Visitors can even step inside the tree for a completely different view — and some memorable holiday photos. At the top is a five-foot illuminated anchor that changes colors, completing a display that feels perfectly at home in one of Connecticut's historic fishing communities.

The 2026 Tree Lighting

The official lighting celebration takes place:

Saturday, November 21, 2026
Beginning at 4:30 PM
Stonington Town Dock — 1 High Street, Stonington, CT
Admission: Free

For the night of the lighting, free shuttle service is scheduled to operate continuously from 3:30 PM until 7:30 PM , helping visitors avoid some of the parking congestion in Stonington Borough.

After opening night, the Lobster Trap Tree will be illuminated each evening from approximately 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM through January 2 , with shortened lighting hours on January 3.

Make an Evening of It in Stonington

One of the best parts of visiting the Lobster Trap Tree is its location.

Stonington Borough is a wonderful place to spend a late fall or holiday evening. Arrive early to walk through the historic streets, browse local shops, enjoy dinner or drinks, and then head toward the waterfront as the lights come on.

And you don't have to end the evening there.

Add Mystic to Your Holiday Getaway

Nearby Mystic offers even more reasons to turn your visit into a weekend or midweek getaway.

Explore the shops of Downtown Mystic and Olde Mistick Village , enjoy seasonal dining, visit Mystic Seaport Museum, or simply stroll through town as the shoreline moves into the holiday season.

November and December also bring holiday markets, tree lightings, decorated boats, seasonal events and plenty of opportunities to find something a little different for your Christmas shopping list.

Holiday Shopping, Dinner and Entertainment

Staying in Preston puts you in a convenient spot for exploring much more of southeastern Connecticut.

Spend part of your day holiday shopping at Tanger Outlets at Foxwoods , head toward Mystic and Stonington for locally owned shops and galleries, or cross the state line into Westerly, Rhode Island for another charming downtown filled with restaurants and shops. In the evening, you can choose between the quiet shoreline atmosphere of Stonington and Mystic or the restaurants, entertainment and shows at nearby Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun.

Turn Your Visit Into a Cozy Country Getaway

After an evening of holiday lights and exploring the shoreline, return to the quiet countryside at The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake in Preston, Connecticut .

Our restored 1804 farmhouse offers five private king suites with ensuite bathrooms in a peaceful setting surrounded by vineyard and lake views. Guests enjoy complimentary on-site parking, Wi-Fi, our 24-hour coffee and snack area, and self-serve continental breakfast offerings — all while being conveniently located near Stonington, Mystic, Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun. Instead of rushing home after the tree lighting, make a getaway of it.

Spend the evening exploring Stonington, enjoy a relaxing night at the Inn, and wake up ready for a second day of holiday shopping, dining and exploring southeastern Connecticut.

The Stonington Lobster Trap Tree Lighting is Saturday, November 21 — and the tree remains illuminated throughout the holiday season into early January.

Come enjoy one of Connecticut's most distinctive holiday traditions and discover a little more of the shoreline while you're here.

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 00:12:09 GMT

Make Your Holiday Shopping a Getaway: Mystic, Foxwoods & Stonington

Make Your Holiday Shopping a Getaway:

Mystic, Foxwoods & Stonington

Holiday shopping doesn't have to mean fighting traffic, rushing through crowded stores and heading straight home.

Here in southeastern Connecticut, you can turn Christmas shopping into a getaway — combining outlet shopping, small-town boutiques, holiday lights, waterfront villages, great restaurants and a relaxing night in the countryside.

From Tanger Outlets at Foxwoods to the shops of Mystic and Stonington Borough , The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake makes a convenient home base for a holiday shopping trip.

Start at Tanger Outlets at Foxwoods

Just minutes from The Cottage Inn, Tanger Outlets at Foxwoods offers one of the area's largest concentrations of shopping in one location. The indoor outlet center features national brands, factory stores and specialty retailers, making it an easy place to tackle a large portion of your Christmas list without worrying about the winter weather.

And because Tanger is located right at Foxwoods Resort Casino, you can easily turn your shopping trip into an evening out with dinner, entertainment or a show before heading back to the Inn. During the holiday season, Tanger also offers rotating store promotions and seasonal savings, so it's worth checking current offers before your visit.

Explore Olde Mistick Village

For a completely different shopping experience, head toward Olde Mistick Village .

The Village is filled with independently operated shops and specialty stores offering everything from jewelry and home décor to toys, gourmet foods, Mystic souvenirs and unique gifts you won't necessarily find at a traditional shopping mall.

During the holiday season, the Village becomes an attraction of its own. Beginning November 20, 2026 , the annual Holiday Lights Spectacular returns, filling Olde Mistick Village with more than a half-million lights each evening.

The display is free to visit, and shops remain open later on Fridays and Saturdays through Christmas. That makes it easy to spend the afternoon shopping, enjoy dinner in Mystic and then stroll through the Village after dark to see the lights.

Shop Historic Downtown Mystic

Continue your holiday shopping in Downtown Mystic , where locally owned boutiques and specialty shops line the streets around the Mystic River. This is where holiday shopping becomes more about discovering something unusual.

You'll find locally made products, jewelry, clothing, coastal gifts, specialty foods, home accessories and plenty of distinctly Mystic items. Add lunch or dinner at one of Mystic's restaurants, take a walk along the river, and you've turned a shopping day into a real holiday outing.

Discover Stonington Borough

A few miles farther down the shoreline is historic Stonington Borough , one of southeastern Connecticut's most charming places during the holidays. Water Street and the surrounding streets are home to small boutiques, galleries and locally owned shops where you can find handcrafted gifts, jewelry, artwork, clothing and one-of-a-kind pieces.

Connecticut's official tourism site specifically highlights Stonington Borough and Historic Downtown Mystic as destinations for holiday shopping and locally owned businesses. And while you're in the Borough, don't miss another local holiday tradition — the Stonington Lobster Trap Tree at the Town Dock. The combination of shopping, decorated storefronts, waterfront scenery and the illuminated Lobster Trap Tree makes Stonington especially worth visiting during November and December.

Turn Shopping Into a Holiday Getaway

The best part is that you don't have to fit everything into one exhausting day.

Stay at The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake in Preston and make a holiday getaway of it.

Spend one day exploring Tanger Outlets and Foxwoods, then devote another to Mystic, Stonington and the Connecticut shoreline. In the evening, return to the quiet countryside and relax at our restored 1804 farmhouse overlooking Amos Lake and the neighboring vineyard. Our five private king suites each feature an ensuite bathroom, and guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, free on-site parking, our 24-hour coffee and snack area and self-serve continental breakfast offerings.

Our Holiday Shopping Weekday Getaway

Planning to shop during the week?

Guests who book two nights or more Sunday through Thursday can save 10% when booking direct during our Holiday Shopping Weekday Getaway. Avoid some of the weekend crowds, enjoy the holiday lights, get your shopping done and turn your trip into a relaxing southeastern Connecticut escape. Whether you're searching for outlet bargains, something handmade, a special gift from a local boutique or simply an excuse to enjoy Mystic and Stonington during the holidays,

The Cottage Inn puts you close to all of it.

Shop. Explore. Enjoy the lights. Then come back to the quiet of Amos Lake.

https://www.thecottageinnatamoslake.com/

The Legend of the Titanic Comes to Mohegan Sun This November

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 00:12:09 GMT

The Legend of the Titanic Comes to Mohegan Sun This November

A remarkable new experience is coming to southeastern Connecticut this holiday season.

Beginning November 20, 2026 , Mohegan Sun will host The Legend of the Titanic: The Ultimate Immersive Experience , making its North American debut after appearances in Madrid, Munich, London and Paris.

For history lovers, Titanic enthusiasts, couples looking for something different to do, or anyone planning a fall or winter getaway to southeastern Connecticut, this new attraction offers another great reason to visit the area.

Step Back Into 1912

This is much more than a traditional museum exhibit.

The experience spans approximately 25,000 square feet and combines historic artifacts with modern immersive technology to bring the story of the Titanic to life. Visitors can walk through recreated areas inspired by the famous ocean liner while experiencing floor-to-ceiling 360-degree projections, virtual reality, augmented reality and interactive installations. The exhibit also includes authentic artifacts and recreations connected to the Titanic era, allowing visitors to experience both the grandeur of the ship and the stories of the people who sailed aboard her.

A Truly Immersive Titanic Experience

Guests will be able to explore portions of the Titanic's story through several different experiences.

Highlights include immersive projection rooms, recreated first-class and third-class spaces, interactive exhibits, virtual reality experiences and a look at the Titanic wreck resting on the Atlantic Ocean floor.

The attraction also includes a virtual reality tribute to the musicians who continued playing as the Titanic sank.

It is designed to be experienced at a relaxed pace, making it an ideal centerpiece for an afternoon or evening at Mohegan Sun.

Opening November 20 at Mohegan Sun

The Legend of the Titanic: The Ultimate Immersive Experience opens:

November 20, 2026
Mohegan Sun – Casino of the Sky
Uncasville, Connecticut

The attraction is scheduled to remain at Mohegan Sun into early 2027.

Mohegan Sun currently lists operating hours Wednesday through Sunday, with later hours on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Visitors should check Mohegan Sun directly for current ticket availability, admission times and schedules before planning their visit.

Make It a Southeastern Connecticut Getaway

One of the advantages of visiting the Titanic experience at Mohegan Sun is that you can easily turn the trip into a full southeastern Connecticut getaway.

The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake is located in nearby Preston, offering a quiet countryside retreat while keeping you convenient to Mohegan Sun, Foxwoods, Mystic, Stonington and the Connecticut shoreline.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Titanic experience, enjoy dinner or entertainment at Mohegan Sun, and then return to the peaceful surroundings of Amos Lake rather than ending your evening in the middle of the casino resort.

The following day, continue your getaway with holiday shopping in Mystic or at Tanger Outlets at Foxwoods, visit historic Stonington Borough, explore local wineries and breweries, or simply relax and enjoy the countryside.

Stay Near Mohegan Sun at The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake

The Cottage Inn is a restored 1804 farmhouse featuring five private king suites, each with its own ensuite bathroom.

Guests enjoy complimentary parking, Wi-Fi, our 24-hour coffee and snack area, self-serve continental breakfast offerings, and a peaceful setting overlooking the surrounding vineyard and Amos Lake.

With Mohegan Sun only a short drive away, you can enjoy the excitement and entertainment of the casino while returning to the comfort of a small country inn at the end of the evening.

If you're planning to experience The Legend of the Titanic this fall or winter, consider making a weekend of it and exploring everything southeastern Connecticut has to offer.

The Legend of the Titanic opens November 20, 2026 at Mohegan Sun.

Life is just better by the lake.

wb6@resnexus.com (ResNexus Websites) — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:12:09 GMT

A Fall Getaway in the Connecticut Countryside

Fall is one of the best times to visit southeastern Connecticut. Crisp mornings, colorful country roads, local farms and vineyards make Preston an ideal home base for exploring Mystic, the Connecticut shoreline, and nearby Rhode Island.

At The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake , guests can enjoy a peaceful countryside stay while remaining just a short drive from many of the area's most popular destinations.

Experience Fall in Preston, Connecticut

Our historic 1804 inn sits in a quiet country setting overlooking Amos Lake and neighboring vineyard rows. Autumn brings changing leaves, cooler evenings, and the perfect weather for exploring the back roads and small towns of southeastern Connecticut.

After a day out, return to the Inn, relax by the fire pit on a crisp fall evening, or simply enjoy the peaceful lake and vineyard surroundings.

Explore Mystic and the Connecticut Shoreline

Mystic makes an easy day trip from The Cottage Inn. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown Mystic, the historic waterfront, local shops, restaurants, and seasonal attractions before returning to the quieter countryside of Preston.

You can also continue along the shoreline toward Stonington or cross into Rhode Island for an afternoon or evening in Westerly.

Visit Local Farms, Cider Mills and Wineries

Fall also means cider, pumpkins, farm stands and vineyards.

Nearby seasonal destinations such as B.F. Clyde's Cider Mill and Preston Farms make it easy to build an entire autumn weekend around local experiences. Guests can also explore wineries throughout southeastern Connecticut and the Connecticut Wine Trail.

Close to Everything — Without Staying in the Crowds

One of the advantages of staying in Preston is location. The Cottage Inn provides a quiet alternative to larger area hotels while keeping guests within easy driving distance of Mystic, Stonington, Westerly, wineries, restaurants, entertainment and the Connecticut shoreline.

At the end of the day, you can leave the crowds behind and return to a peaceful country inn.

Your Stay at The Cottage Inn

The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake is an adults-only inn featuring five private king suites, each with its own ensuite bathroom.

Guests also enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi, streaming television, free on-site parking, our 24-hour coffee and snack area, and self-serve breakfast selections available throughout the morning.

Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a midweek escape, or simply looking for a quiet place to stay while exploring southeastern Connecticut, fall is a beautiful time to experience Preston and Amos Lake.

Plan your autumn getaway and discover why The Cottage Inn makes a peaceful home base for exploring southeastern Connecticut.

Stonington’s Lobster Trap Tree Lighting: A Holiday Tradition Worth the Trip

November 2026 in Mystic Country: Holiday Lights, Shopping & Things to Do

This is a subtitle for your new post

November 2026 in Mystic Country: Holiday Lights, Shopping, Coastal Traditions & Things to Do

✨ Olde Mistick Village Holiday Lights Spectacular

�� Stonington Lobster Trap Tree Lighting

⛵ Mystic Holiday Lighted Boat Parade

��️ Holiday Shopping at Foxwoods, Mystic & Stonington

�� November Holiday Markets

�� November Entertainment at Foxwoods & Mohegan Sun

�� Explore Connecticut Wine Country & Scenic Shoreline Villages

�� Make It a November Getaway at The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake

�� Holiday Shopping Weekday Special — Save 10%

We Look Forward to Welcoming You!

Stonington’s Lobster Trap Tree Lighting: A Holiday Tradition Worth the Trip

A Holiday Tradition Worth the Trip

Stonington’s Lobster Trap Tree Lighting:

﻿ A Holiday Tradition Worth the Trip

A Christmas Tree With a Connecticut Shoreline Twist

The 2026 Tree Lighting

Make an Evening of It in Stonington

Add Mystic to Your Holiday Getaway

Holiday Shopping, Dinner and Entertainment

Turn Your Visit Into a Cozy Country Getaway

Make Your Holiday Shopping a Getaway: Mystic, Foxwoods & Stonington ﻿

Make Your Holiday Shopping a Getaway:

Mystic, Foxwoods & Stonington

Start at Tanger Outlets at Foxwoods

Explore Olde Mistick Village

Shop Historic Downtown Mystic

Discover Stonington Borough

Turn Shopping Into a Holiday Getaway

Our Holiday Shopping Weekday Getaway

The Legend of the Titanic Comes to Mohegan Sun This November

The Legend of the Titanic Comes to Mohegan Sun This November

Step Back Into 1912

A Truly Immersive Titanic Experience

Opening November 20 at Mohegan Sun

Make It a Southeastern Connecticut Getaway

Stay Near Mohegan Sun at The Cottage Inn at Amos Lake

Life is just better by the lake.

A Fall Getaway in the Connecticut Countryside

Experience Fall in Preston, Connecticut

Explore Mystic and the Connecticut Shoreline

Visit Local Farms, Cider Mills and Wineries

Close to Everything — Without Staying in the Crowds

Your Stay at The Cottage Inn

A Holiday Tradition Worth the Trip

Make Your Holiday Shopping a Getaway: Mystic, Foxwoods & Stonington