Mystic Irish Parade Foundation Parade Participant Instructions

Dear 2026 Mystic Irish Parade Attendees,

We are almost to the big day, and we are excited to host you and your group on Sunday. It looks like the weather will also be sending us positive vibes.

Attached you will find the parade orders, please take a moment to review and note your unit number. Please don’t be worried about which division etc.

Organizing such a large event requires extensive planning and dedication. We would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all our supporters and sponsors for their invaluable help this year. Special thanks go to our fellow board members, whose hard work and tireless efforts have once again contributed to the success of the parade.

Our parade is made possible by the generous support of local organizations and businesses, as well as the enthusiastic backing of area residents. Their ongoing support ensures the parade’s continued success. We encourage you to support these businesses on parade day and show your appreciation for their contributions.

The south parking lot at Mystic Seaport will open at 9:00 AMfor oversize vehicles only, and at 10:00 AM for all other vehicles and attendees. This is strictly enforced.

Important Vehicle Policies:

  • No Motorcycles: Based on recommendations from the local police department and the parade committee, motorcycles are not permitted in the parade except for on-duty emergency vehicles. This measure is for the safety of all participants and spectators.
  • Oversize Vehicle Arrival: Oversize vehicles parking will open at 9 am. No oversize vehicles will be accepted after 10:00 AM on parade day. This policy will be strictly enforced.
  • Oversize Vehicle Definition and Instructions: If you are bringing an oversize vehicle—defined as any vehicle larger than a regular car, SUV, pickup, or any vehicle with a trailer attached—you will receive a separate email with detailed arrival policies.
  • Youth Groups: Special parking instructions will be provided for youth groups. It is crucial that these groups adhere to the parking plans to ensure smooth operations.
    • Anyone parking at Rossie Field will need to display a parking permit (issued by us) clearly on their dashboard. If not, they may be subject to towing.

The road and parking lot will close promptly at 12:15 PM. Parking this year is extremely limited, so please plan for a quick and efficient setup. Bus parking is not permitted; buses will need to find parking at the end of the parade route.

Respect for Volunteers: We regret to mention that, despite the respect shown by most, there have been past incidents of verbal abuse toward our volunteers, resulting in the removal of certain units from the parade. Please remind your units that all staff in the lot, including ourselves and Maggie Henderson, are volunteers. With limited space, not every car can be accommodated in each parade unit’s assigned spot.

Zero-Tolerance Policy: There will be zero tolerance for verbal abuse. Anyone engaging in such behavior will be removed, and if necessary, the entire unit may be removed. Any paid compensation may also be withdrawn from the offending unit.

Upon arrival, you will receive a parking number. Parade volunteers will guide you to your assigned spot. Please do not move or remove any cones. If you need additional space, speak with a parade volunteer for assistance.

After parking, the “lead” representative of each parade unit must register at the registration tent, which will be located at the entrance of the parking lot. Registration ensures accurate placement and correct grandstand announcements. Registration closes promptly at 12:30 PM. All paid units must collect their checks during this time.

  • No Alcohol: The Mystic Irish Parade Foundation, with the Groton and Stonington Police Departments, prohibits drinking alcoholic beverages on the parade route. Public drinking laws will be enforced, and arrests will be made as necessary.
  • No Stopping or Performing: Stopping or performing in front of the reviewing stand or along the parade route is not allowed. This regulation will be strictly enforced by parade officials.
  • No Alcohol in Staging Area: Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in the staging area, and violations will result in penalties or expulsion from the parade. Fees may also be forfeited or reduced.
  • Inclement Weather: The parade will proceed rain or shine. Paid units must have a minimum of 12 participants to qualify for payment.
  • No Propaganda or Political Materials: Placards, banners, pamphlets, or any devices intended to spread propaganda, political views, or embarrass any group are strictly prohibited.
  • No Throwing Items: To prevent injuries, throwing items such as candy or toys from vehicles, floats, or by marchers to spectators is not allowed.
  • No Sirens or Air Horns: The use of sirens and air horns is strictly prohibited, as they could interfere during actual emergencies. Violators may be barred from future parades.

  • Step-Off Time: The parade will begin at 1:00 PM. All units and participants must be in position and ready to move by 12:30 PM.
  • Reviewing Stand: The parade will be reviewed by the Grand Marshal, Parade Officers, Parade Committee, and distinguished guests at the stand in front of the Chelsea Groton Bank on Water Street, Mystic.
  • Parade Orders: Parade orders will be posted on our website, www.mysticirishparade.org, by 10:00 AM on Friday, March 20. Please review them before arriving at the muster point.
  • Emergency Contact: For emergencies only, contact 860-608-4883. This phone line will be active only on parade day.
  • Fire Departments and Ambulance Units: All participating departments, except the Mystic Fire Department, are limited to one truck – no exceptions.

Your cooperation is vital to making the Mystic Irish Parade a safe, enjoyable family event for all. Thank you for your participation and support.

Cheers,

Matt Forde
Parade Director
The Mystic Irish Parade Foundation