Additional Resources:
2009 Summer Solstice Sunset Party FAQ
GENERAL QUESTIONS:
Q: Where can we park?
A: Main parking lot for Mystic Seaport on Route 27.
Q: What time do the grounds open for the event?
A: The grounds close to our regular visitors at 6 p.m. and reopen for the Summer Solstice event at 6:30 p.m.
Q: Where do we enter the grounds?
A: Walk across Route 27 and enter through the Visitor Center where you receive a member sticker and Program Guide.
Q: What should we wear?
A: Be comfortable. It's an evening outdoor musical event that will be held on our wharf area, including Chubb's Wharf.
Q: What should we bring?
A: Your dinner tickets (if ordered), folding chairs (there will be some folding chairs set up), and a flashlight. Special lighting will be set up on the grounds.
Q: What if there's bad weather predicted for June 20?
A: A decision will be made by noon on Friday, June 19, about whether to reschedule to Sunday, June 21, the rain date. Check our Web site or call the Membership Office (860) 572-5339.
Q: What's free for members?
A: Entrance to the evening event, select exhibits and entertainment are free for members.
Q: What are the extra costs?
A: The Fish Dinner by the River at $35 per person (reservations required), event admission for non members ($15 adult, and $5 children 5-17), drinks from the cash bars, snacks from the food tent, and VIP seating for members ($20 per person).
Q: What is included in the members-only VIP Seating?
A: Chairs will be provided in a preferred seating area on Chubb's Wharf for an upfront view of Don Braden and his Quintet performing from the L.A Dunton.
Q: Can I come in early and reserve my space on the wharf?
A: No. However, after 6:30 p.m. you can put your chair on the wharf outside of the VIP seating area.
Q: What if I want to bring a non-member friend?
A: Non-member friends are welcome at the non-member rates.
Q: Is there a separate rate for children under 6?
A: No. Children under 6 are always free to the grounds, but there is no special food rate for children.
Q: What if I want to bring my dog?
A: Leashed dogs are allowed on the grounds, but not in the buildings or in the food areas. Please pick up after your pet and keep in mind it will be dark. Dogs can not be left unattended.
Q: Are wheelchairs available for handicapped people?
A: We have a limited numbers of wheelchairs. If you need a wheelchair we recommend you make appropriate arrangements of your own.
Q: Will member gear be sold during the event?
A: Yes. Member gear will be available for purchase at the Membership Building from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
FOOD RELATED QUESTIONS:
Q: Can I purchase tickets for the Fish Dinner on the night of the event?
A: No. You must purchase tickets for the cookout prior to the event. You can, however, eat a la carte at the Spouter Tavern, purchase snacks from our food tent or bring your own picnic and eat it on the grounds.
Q: Does the Fish Dinner include a free cocktail?
A: No. Cocktails will be available for purchase separately. The dinner does include iced tea and lemonade.
Q: What if I want to bring my own picnic?
A: That's fine. However, you cannot bring alcohol (including wine) onto the grounds. You can purchase mixed drinks, wine, beer and soda (full bar) at our cash bars. You can also purchase snacks, chowder and chili from our food tent.
Q: If I'm not signing up for the Fish Dinner, do I still need to register?
A: YES! We need to plan for the number of folks coming to the event to ensure we have adequate staff at the gate, security, etc.
Q: Can I bring my own wine or alcoholic beverages?
A: No. According to Connecticut state law, only alcoholic beverages provided by Mystic Seaport may be consumed on the grounds. All other alcoholic beverages will be confiscated.
OTHER QUESTIONS:
Q: Why are you doing this instead of the traditional Members Day in September?
A: The number of members coming to the myriad daytime activities in September has been declining over the past six years, so we wanted to create a new experience just for our members without the daytime visitors -- an event that would take advantage of the natural beauty of Mystic Seaport and our maritime heritage.
Q: Will you still have the Annual Trustee and Member Luncheon in September?
A: Yes, on Saturday, September 26, 2009.