Christmas in Maine is truly special. During this time of year, both new and old traditions come together to create a warm and welcoming holiday season. It’s time to start thinking about those winter plans, and there’s no better place to celebrate the season than Boothbay Harbor, Maine! Below, we’ve compiled just a few of the reasons why you will love spending quality time with loved ones here.
Rich traditions, great food, and fun activities are all at the heart of Christmas in Maine. For a hand-picked list of the area’s best seasonal dining, shopping, and lodging, request access to our free Midcoast Maine Vacation Guide! It’s the region’s best resource for planning memorable holiday vacations.
Here’s Why You Will Love Christmas in Maine
The Atmosphere Is Ideal
Christmas in Midcoast Maine is marked by festive performances, twinkling lights as far as the eye can see, and weather that’s perfect for relaxing by a fireplace. Against a beautiful backdrop of rocky shores and glistening waters, locals and visitors alike come together and celebrate each other’s presence. It’s hard not to absorb Boothbay Harbor’s joyful atmosphere when visiting, so it’s the perfect Midcoast Maine spot for holiday getaways.
The Events Are Unforgettable
The most exciting part of Christmas in Maine is the Boothbay Festival of Lights. Every winter, this signature event brings visitors from all over the world to Midcoast Maine to experience bright lights, retail specials, and a variety of fun activities. Whether visitors prefer shopping in Downtown Boothbay Harbor or gazing at creative light displays, they’ll find plenty of ways to savor the season at this fantastic festival. Here are just a few of the best events that take place during the festival.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Aglow
Between November 17 and December 31, the upper Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens will transform into a mesmerizing display of Christmas lights. Tickets for the highly anticipated Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Aglow 2017 are available online or at the door of the event. Gardens Aglow is first and foremost the biggest Christmas light show in Maine, but it is also beloved for its selection of food and entertainment. Enjoy delicious small plates from The Kitchen Garden Cafe, an on-site restaurant serving cocktails and appetizers. In addition, expect plenty of on-site snacks like s’mores and freshly popped popcorn.
As an added bonus, visitors can stay in Boothbay Harbor and attend this event for one all-inclusive rate if they partake in The Russell House’s Gardens Aglow Package. They’ll receive two tickets for a night of Gardens Aglow, lodging, and a free home-cooked breakfast each morning of their stay!
32nd Annual Harbor Lights Festival
In 2017, the 32nd Annual Harbor Lights Festival will delight visitors of Boothbay Harbor with a spirited nautical celebration. Highlights of this event include appearances by Santa Claus, horse-drawn carriage rides, caroling, a craft show, and a tree lighting. Be sure to stick around until the end of the night, because a festive boat parade will take place! During this part of the festival, local captains show off their boats’ decorated hulls. Then, they sail in a procession around the harbor. This year, the event takes place on December 2.
Spend Christmas in Maine at The Russell House Bed & Breakfast
Newagen Seaside Inn closes for the season on October 15, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience an amazing Christmas in Maine! Stay at The Russell House Bed & Breakfast, our chic and historic sister property! This beautiful lodging option boasts comfortable and stylish guest rooms, cozy common areas with fireplaces, and the convenience of being in the center of town. When staying at The Russell House, guests don’t need a car to experience all of the area’s holiday events!
Ready to reserve your Christmas in Maine? Check The Russell House’s availability today! After booking a stay, start looking forward to a holiday celebration everyone will remember for years to come!