This Iconic Holiday Event in Maine Is the One Thing You Must Do This Season

If the holiday season brings to mind frosted windows, crackling fireplaces, and the scent of evergreen, then Christmas at Victoria Mansion in Portland is the holiday event in Maine you won’t want to miss. From Nov. 29, 2024, to Jan. 5, 2025, this National Historic Landmark transforms into a Victorian Christmas card brought to life, adorned with enchanting decorations that offer a glimpse into festive traditions of the past.

Renowned for its exquisite interiors designed by Gustave Herter, a pioneer of 19th-century American design, Victoria Mansion immerses visitors in the splendor of a bygone era. Lavishly decorated spaces like the parlor, smoking room, and grand staircase sparkle with festive touches evoking Christmases long ago.

This year’s theme, Stories of the Season, brings holiday tales to life. Local florists, designers, and artists have infused the mansion's opulent rooms with inspiration from 19th-century holiday stories and regional folklore. Every detail, from gilded surfaces to sparkling ornaments, complements the mansion's authentic Victorian decor.

The Sitting Room becomes a snowy wonderland with antique toys and a traditional Russian headdress inspired by the Russian folk tale Snegurochka.

In the Reception Room, step into the gingerbread house from Hansel and Gretel, complete with candy-like lollipops and peppermints.

The Dining Room evokes Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen, with shimmering blue and silver embellishments.

These imaginative displays create a truly immersive experience, where the sights, sounds, and scents transport visitors back to a Victorian Christmas celebration. You can almost hear the rustle of silk skirts and the clinking of glasses as guests gather in festive elegance.

Beyond the decorated rooms, Victoria Mansion hosts special events to enhance the holiday experience. Young visitors can enjoy Stories on the Staircase every Monday morning, featuring holiday-themed tales in the grand Stair Hall. On Saturday, Jan. 4, a special New Year’s celebration will highlight Victorian traditions to ring in 2025.

Victoria Mansion transforms the holiday season into something truly extraordinary. From the stunning decorations to the timeless stories woven throughout its halls, this cherished holiday event in Maine offers an experience that lingers long after your visit. Step into history, embrace the season’s magic, and create memories that will make your holidays unforgettable.

Victoria Mansion (located at 109 Danforth St., Portland, ME, 04101) is open Tuesdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with tours starting every half hour. Advance ticket purchases are highly recommended, especially on weekends. Visit the official website of Victoria Mansion for details and to plan your trip.

If your visit to Portland for Christmas at Victoria Mansion becomes a weekend getaway, I recommend staying at the Press Hotel. It’s just a 15-minute walk from the mansion. And if you're looking for even more ways to soak up the holiday spirit, these dazzling light displays in Maine will do the trick.

What are your favorite ways to celebrate the holidays in Maine? Share your suggestions via our nomination form to inspire others to discover the magic of the season!