13 Reasons Why Christmas in Maine Is the Absolute Best

Sure, there are Christmas festivities in every state in the country, but we think that Christmas in Maine is the absolute best. Is it the snow-covered mountains in Acadia that put us in the spirit, or is it the dimly lit holiday lights in our small towns? Hard to say.

What we do know is that spending the holidays in Maine will leave you with a heart full of cheer. From the magical Christmas towns to the spectacular light displays, here are 13 reasons why celebrating in the Pine Tree State is unbeatable.

1. We Really Get Into the Holiday Season

Towns like Freeport, Maine, are extremely decked out during the holidays. From its larger-than-life Christmas tree at the L.L. Bean flagship store to the talking Christmas tree in the downtown area, there are plenty of ways to feel the holiday spirit in this charming waterfront town. Find similar spectacular displays in town squares all over the state.

2. ...Like, Really Into It

Enjoy parades galore throughout Maine during Christmastime, including one of our favorites, Christmas by the Sea in Camden. Every year, the town hosts this parade on the first weekend of December and includes a parade of floats and trucks through the downtown area, carriage rides, live entertainment, and a tree lighting. Another super fun one is the Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport from December 4 to the 14. It's clear we really get into the whole Christmas thing around here.

3. Our Cities Are a Winter Wonderland

There are so many things to see in Maine year-round, but winter is an especially beautiful time to visit. Places like the Portland Museum of Art in Portland, Maine, for instance, have brilliant light displays around the entire property. Specifically, the Cooper Beech Tree (pictured above) gets a festive treatment each season.

4. ...Truly

Speaking of Portland, Maine, Tommy's Park is always wonderfully lit during this time of year. The blue glow of the lights reflects off the freshly fallen snow, making everything feel icy and cool. It's a great place to stop and sip a cup of hot cocoa or tea after Christmas shopping around town.

5. Where Else Will You Find a Tree Made of Lobster Pots?

The answer is? Not many other places. Sure, Provincetown, Rhode Island, and likely a few spots in Massachusetts, sport a tree made out of wooden lobster pots. But do they also come with lush garland, bright red buoys, and the occasional lobster ornament here and there? We doubt it. You'll have to stop by the real deal in Kennebunkport, Maine, during December to see it for yourself.

6. The Portland Ballet's "Victorian Nutcracker" Is Unique to Maine

The Portland Ballet of Maine puts on an annual production of the Nutcracker that recreates the interiors of Victoria Mansion and interprets Tchaikovsky’s score through the stories of Portland’s nineteenth-century families. This year, you can see The Victorian Nutcracker on Saturday, December 6, Tuesday, December 16, Saturday, December 20, and Sunday, December 21. Buy tickets here.

7. L.L. Bean's Christmas Tree Is Arguably the Best

As we mentioned before, Rockefeller Center's got nothing on the L.L. Bean Flagship Store's gigantic Christmas Tree right outside its doors. After November 21, this marvelous display is lit for the rest of the year, and is followed by several festive activities like live music and food trucks, kids' fireside stories, and pictures with Santa Claus (you can even bring your pet along!). These go on weekly for free at the store's campus.

8. Other States Decorate Their Homes, We Decorate Our Landmarks

Of course, Mainers decorate their lighthouses... why not? Pictured above is the Nubble Head Light in Cape Neddick, Maine, but tons of other lighthouses, boathouses, marinas, and even boats themselves get decked out for the holiday season. We still light up our houses, too, but it's more fun to see the whole town sparkling—historic and iconic landmarks included.

9. We Have the Maine Christmas Tree Association

With so many small farms in Maine producing trees, you can make a day of finding the perfect one with your family. Thanks to the Maine Christmas Tree Association (yes, it's a thing), there are plenty of fun places to choose from, including Piper Mountain Christmas Tree Farm in Newburgh, Maine, Old Farm Christmas Place in Cape Elizabeth, and Watson Farm Christmas Trees in Standish. Help chop down your tree, grab some wreaths and other trimmings for decor, or gather for a photo op!

10. A Lobster Is an Actual Christmas Decoration

Lobster isn't just our state's delicacy—it's also a spunky and uniquely Maine Christmas ornament. You can find lobster ornaments and decor all year-round, but the local shops typically have special edition items for the holidays. Whether it's a lobster wearing a Santa hat or sunglasses, there's something super cute for your tree, wreath, or table top.

11. Any Festive Lights Are Great Lights Here

Sometimes, Mainers like to go off-script when it comes to holiday traditions. That means you might see things like purple and blue twinkle lights wrapped around trees rather than the classic red, green, or white. Pictured is One Longfellow Square in Parkside, Portland, Maine, where you can see plenty of holiday light shows, displays, and live mini concerts right from the square's lawn.

12. But We Can Do Traditional, Too

There's nothing more magical than the classic warm glow of yellowish-white lights in a snowy town. Tommy's Park, as mentioned before, has different types of lights wrapped around their trees on different days. Sometimes, they'll feature a cool blue tone, while other times, they'll bring warm and cozy vibes, despite the frigid air.

13. Lastly, We Know the Best Part of the Holiday Season

Mainers know the most important part of the holiday season is spending time with the ones you love. No matter how you celebrate, sharing in the festivities with friends and family is what it's all about. Whether you're decorating the tree, volunteering for your community, caroling down Main Street, or playing in the snow, togetherness is the reason for the season around here.

What do you love about Christmas in Maine? Find out by taking a holiday trip with the family, using Only In Your State's itinerary planner to guide your days. Get personalized lodging, dining, and sightseeing recommendations perfect for elevating Christmas cheer.