The holiday season is the perfect time to come together with friends, family, and neighbors to celebrate the magic of the season. Whether you're looking for festive light displays, charming holiday markets, or community gatherings, there’s something for everyone in your local area. From cozy traditions to exciting new experiences, these local holiday events offer a chance to create lasting memories without having to travel far. Here’s a guide to the best festivities happening near you this holiday season—get ready to make the most of this special time of year!
43rd Annual Christmas Prelude in the Kennebunks - December 5th-15th
The "Christmas Prelude" in the Kennebunks is like stepping into a real-life Hallmark movie, complete with twinkling lights, lush greenery, and the towering Christmas tree in the heart of Dock Square. Don't miss out on these festive holiday events! Start your weekend on Friday, December 6th, at 5:30 p.m. for the iconic tree lighting ceremony in Dock Square. Afterward, make your way to Cape Porpoise for the Lobster Trap Tree Lighting at 7:00 p.m. On Saturday, bring the kids to Kennebunk Outfitters at 2:30 p.m. to meet Santa's reindeer and Mrs. Claus, followed by the 19th annual Hat Parade at 3:00 p.m. Afterward, head to Lower Village for the Tree Lighting and Christmas Stroll at 5:30 p.m., which leads into the Christmas Candlelight and Caroling event at 6:30 p.m. On Sunday, don’t miss the unique spectacle of Santa arriving by lobster boat on the Kennebunk River—catch him at 12:30 p.m. either at the Matthew J. Lanigan Bridge or from the Boathouse Restaurant while you enjoy lunch. There's another chance to see the tree lighting in Dock Square on Friday, December 13th at 5:30 p.m., followed by a festive fireworks display at 6:15 p.m. On Saturday, Santa's reindeer and Mrs. Claus will be back at Kennebunk Outfitters at 2:30 p.m., and on Sunday, the iconic Pooch Parade kicks off at 11:00 a.m., with Santa arriving by fire engine at 2:00 p.m. There's no shortage of holiday cheer in the Kennebunks —be sure to join in on the fun! Click here to view the full schedule of events!
Ogunquit's 38th Annual Christmas by the Sea - December 13th-15th
Christmas by the Sea in Ogunquit is a holiday celebration like no other, featuring tree and bridge lightings, festive concerts, craft shows, children's activities, a lively parade, bonfires, fireworks, Santa, and so much more. Mark your calendar for the Bridge and Boat Lighting Celebration at Footbridge Beach on Friday, December 13th, at 4:30 p.m. From there, head to Rotary Park in Perkins Cove for the tree lighting from 5:00 to 6:45 p.m., where you can enjoy the glow of the season in a charming coastal setting. Then, make your way to Veterans Park on Beach Street at 8:15 p.m. for a third tree lighting ceremony to round out your evening.
Saturday morning kicks off with Holiday Story Readings at the Ogunquit Memorial Library from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., a perfect way to get into the festive spirit. Afterward, head to the Ogunquit Fire Company Holiday Craft Fair at the Fire Station from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for unique gifts and local treasures. For a special treat, visit La Pizzeria between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. to enjoy a slice with Santa himself! At 3:00 p.m., don’t miss the Ogunquit Christmas Parade, which begins in Perkins Cove and winds its way through the heart of town. After the parade, head to the beach for a cozy bonfire at 4:00 p.m., where you can gather with friends and family. And to top off the evening, enjoy a stunning fireworks display over the beach at 4:45 p.m. There’s no better way to kick off the holiday season in Ogunquit—this is one event you won’t want to miss! Click here to view the full schedule of events for the weekend.
York Holiday Lightings - November 30th
York is famous for its picturesque beaches and the iconic Nubble Lighthouse, which draws visitors year-round. But there's something extra special about this charming town during the holiday season when everything—from the lighthouse to the coastline—is aglow with festive lights. If you're looking to kick off your holiday fun, head to York on Saturday, November 30th for a celebration you won’t forget!
Start the evening at the Anchorage Inn on Long Sands Beach, where the annual holiday lighting ceremony will take place from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy the sparkle of thousands of lights as they illuminate the inn, with a special visit from Santa himself and a spectacular fireworks display.
From 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., make your way to the Nubble Lighthouse to see it lit up for the first time this season. The breathtaking view of the lighthouse shining over the waters is a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Don’t miss this magical evening in York—it's sure to be a highlight of your holiday season!
Christmas Parades - December 7th, 14th & 15th! York, Ogunquit and Wells!
York, Ogunquit and Wells are local parades that you can catch the Anchor Real Estate Team participating in! This was our float last year, stay tuned to see what we do this year! The holiday parade season kicks off in York with the Festival of Lights Parade on Saturday, December 7th at 4:30 p.m. The parade will travel down York Street, from Axholme Road to Village Elementary School, lighting up the town with holiday cheer. Next up, join us in Ogunquit on Saturday, December 14th at 3:00 p.m. for their festive parade—one of the highlights of the season in this charming coastal town. Finally, we’ll wrap up the parade circuit in Wells on Sunday, December 15th—come see us as we bring the holiday spirit to the streets of this beautiful seaside community. We can’t wait to see you there and share the holiday magic with all of you! To learn more about our company and our team, click here!
