Christmas Lights 2024-2025 in Maine

Christmas in New England is truly magical, and Maine shines brightest during this festive season. The streets of downtown Portland and historic Freeport are transformed into winter wonderlands, with twinkling lights reflecting off freshly fallen snow. Along the waterfront, illuminated ship parades add a unique coastal charm, while festive decorations adorn every corner. Whether strolling through picturesque towns or watching the lights dance on the harbor, Christmas in Maine offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and holiday spirit.

Monument Square Tree Lighting, Portland (Saturday, November 29, 2024)

Kick-off Portland’s holiday season on Friday, November 29, 2024, with the Monument Square Tree Lighting presented by Hood Eggnog. This free, family-friendly event begins at 1 pm with a Princess and Superhero Meet & Greet featuring Elsa, Moana, Captain America, and Spider-Man. At 1:30 pm, enjoy an outdoor Frozen II watch party, followed by live performances from Portland Ballet and American Idol finalist Julia Gagnon at 3:30 pm.

The highlight at 4:30 pm is the ceremonial tree lighting, where a Make-A-Wish Maine child “pulls the candy cane lever” to illuminate the square. Delight in complimentary eggnog, photo ops with ice sculptures, horse and wagon rides, and treats from The Marshmallow Cart. Warm up in the nearby warming hut or the cozy Portland Public Library atrium.

Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay (November 16–December 31, 2024)

As the night falls on Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, Gardens Aglow transforms the grounds into a magical winter wonderland with over 750,000 LED lights. This year marks the 10th anniversary of one of New England’s largest light displays. Visitors can explore a one-mile illuminated path, which features sculptures and festive elements like glowing mushrooms, shooting stars, and the Gardens’ beloved trolls, Roskva and Lilja. Guests can also enjoy hot food and beverages at the Café and are encouraged to explore Boothbay Harbor before or after their visit.

Early bird pricing is available for visits between November 16 and 27, with adult tickets at $19 and family passes at $48. Standard tickets starting November 29 are $21 for adults and $54 for families. The Gardenshop offers holiday gifts, both onsite and online, with all sales supporting the Gardens’ mission.

Gardiner Parade of Lights on Water Street (Saturday, December 7, 2024)

Parade of Lights on Water Street is a premier holiday event in Gardiner, Maine. The favorite family event has a different theme every year and kicks off with Small Business Saturday, when local stores have open houses with various activities and refreshments. The Lighting Saturday starts with a festival at Johnson Hall Park. There is live entertainment, hot cocoa, a bake sale, and Christmas caroling. Children can meet Santa Claus in the Gardiner City Hall Council Room from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. Parade of Lights begins at 4:30 pm and travels along Water Street from Winter Street to Waterfront Park.

Sparkle Weekend in Freeport (December 6–15, 2024)

Sparkle Celebration is one of Maine's most beloved holiday festivals. Kicking off with the Sparkle Parade of Lights at 6 pm, the parade travels down Main Street, ending with Santa bringing the iconic Talking Christmas Tree to life. The festivities continue throughout the week, offering a range of free, family-friendly activities, including visits with Santa, carriage rides, Christmas movie screenings, and a tuba Christmas concert. The festival also features the Sparkle Frosty Frolic with food trucks, fire pits, holiday tunes, and gifts. Shoppers can enjoy the Sparkle Stroll, featuring special deals, door prizes, and giveaways from the Stealth Elf.

L.L. Bean Northern Lights Celebration, Freeport (November 22–December 29, 2024)

The L.L. Bean Northern Lights Celebration holds one of the most popular Christmas festivals in Maine, taking place at its flagship campus in Freeport. With thousands of twinkling lights and visits with Santa and his reindeer, the festival has fun activities for all ages.

The L.L.Bean Northern Lights Opening Night kicks off the holiday season on Friday, November 22, from 4–8 pm, with a tree lighting ceremony at 6:45 pm. Festivities include visits with Santa, free hot cocoa, and outdoor photo opportunities. Guests can enjoy live holiday music by American Idol’s Julia Gagnon and The Fogcutters while exploring the winter wonderland. The evening will be hosted by Maine's Coast 93.1 emcees Blake, Kelly, and Todd, who will lead the countdown to illuminate thousands of festive lights.

Lighting of the Nubble Lighthouse, Cape Neddick, York (Saturday, November 30, 2024)

If you want to see a classic American lighthouse, head to Cape Neddick in York, Maine. Nubble Lighthouse dates back to 1879 and is a New England icon. The 41-foot (12-m) structure sends light 88 feet (27 m) above sea level. The lighthouse now serves as a bed-and-breakfast. During the holidays, it also features a beautiful Christmas light display. Nubble Lighthouse is an excellent spot for writing, painting, photographing, meditating, and other activities that require solitude and beautiful views.

Visit Cape Neddick in York, Maine, to see the iconic Nubble Lighthouse, dating back to 1879. This 41-foot (12-m) structure sends light 88 feet (27 m) above sea level and features a stunning Christmas light display during the holidays. The 2nd Annual Lighting of the Nubble Party at the ViewPoint Hotel takes place on November 30, 2024, from 3 pm to 5 pm. Tickets include parking and professional photos with Santa. Enjoy festive food, drinks, a raffle, and the option to purchase Christmas trees. General admission is $45 for adults and $15 for kids, with a private fire pit available for $500. Hotel guests attend for free.

The Portland Harbor Christmas Boat Parade of Lights (December 5–22, Select Nights)

The Portland Harbor Christmas Boat Parade of Lights is one of Maine's most famous holiday events, with thousands of spectators watching the Portland waterfront's annual spectacular. A great option to watch the parade is booking a cruise with Casco Bay Lines. Many specialty and music cruises serve food, wine, and champagne to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. If you have no intention to board a boat or a ferry, the large parade of illuminated boats is perfectly visible from the Maine State Pier.