Mystic will be all aglow Friday when Mystic Aquarium and Olde Mistick Village both swing into the holiday spirit with a whole lotta luminaria.

The walkways at both will be lined with lights. The aquarium will be decorated inside as well, and local organizations will be bringing the entertainment. Specifically, that means there will be holiday music, storytellers, face-painting and more. And don't forget Santa. He and an elf will dive into the Coral Reef habitat from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Admission to the aquarium is free with a nonperishable food item that benefits the Gemma E. Moran United Way Labor Food Center in New London.

Olde Mistick Village, meanwhile, will hosts its Festival of Lighs from dusk till 9:30 p.m., with free refreshments in the Meeting House, along with Ragtime Too's holiday music. Other entertainment in the village includes the Ledyard High School Carolers, Fly By Night Holiday Jesters, Too Tall Guys, and The Festive Brass.

- KRISTINA DORSEY

Mystic Aquarium's Festival , 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, Mystic Aquarium, 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic; once inside, guests can stay till 8 p.m.; free with a nonperishable food item; (860) 572-5955, mysticaquarium.org.

of Lights

Olde Mistick Village's Festival of Lights, dusk till 9:30 p.m., Olde Mistick Village, Coogan Blvd., Mystic; (860) 572-5955.