During the long and cold winter months, many people just crank up the heat and stay home. However, there is a whole world out there to explore and it may be cold but it’s always completely worth it. Everyone has a favorite winter activity like skiing, sledding, or snowmobiling, but there is something else that might have slipped your radar. Festivals are no longer bound to the summer months but have made their way into February where you can find the Ice Festival in Belfast, Maine. This annual event will have you bundled up and enjoying the best ice sculptures in the state.
The charming little harbor town of Belfast is filled with local restaurants and shops making it a great place to visit. The town overlooks Belfast Bay which is a smaller section of Penobscot Bay. Having the ocean as a backdrop makes this historic town also a beautiful place.
Every year in February the whole town comes together for the Ice Festival. Artists will put masterful sculptures on display and even have a competition for the best design. This three-day festival will be filled with activities making it a fun way to get outside this winter.
Right in the heart of Belfast, a bulk of the sculptures will be on display. However, if you want to see them all you can search up and down the streets of downtown. This makes for an interesting scavenger hunt and a great way to explore the town.
A block of ice is provided but participants are responsible to bring their own tools and imaginative design. A panel of judges will vote for a winner as well as crowd votes, then one lucky winner will be chosen to take the crown until next year.
advertisement
advertisement
Some of the sculptures will be depicting beloved characters and others will be entirely unique.
Finding all of the sculptures can be a blast but there are so many other things to do during the festival as well. Special food and drink events, crafts, and a lit-up walkway trail are just a few of the things you can find at the biggest ice sculpture festival in the state.
The Ice Festival in Belfast, Maine, is a great way to get outside and enjoy some art in a charming little coastal town with beautiful views of the harbor. Don’t spend your winter inside when there is so much life waiting for you outside. This February bundle up tight and find some of the best ice sculptures in the state. This is an annual event so the best way to get up-to-date information is to follow the Our Town Belfast Facebook page. Check out the ice sculptures from 2022 with this Adventuring in the Moment video.
https://youtu.be/_cy5o_U-BOY
Close by is a little-known state park that gives great coastal views and you may even have it all to yourself.
As the leaves stop falling from the trees and the chill becomes just a bit more biting, it’s clear that winter is well on its way here in Vacationland. And, that can only mean it’s time to set off on a winter wonderland adventure! If we’re lucky, the landscape will transform into a calm blanket of snow, bringing various fun activities to enjoy across the state. The season invites locals and visitors to explore the great outdoors by enjoying things like skiing, tubing, fat biking, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and hiking on snow-covered trails. The beauty of Maine creates an incredible backdrop for just about any activity and there are so many things to do in Maine in winter.
advertisement
In addition to participating in outdoor activities, I love simply enjoying the way my fellow-Mainers celebrate the season. Light displays, local events and festivals, and some of the most charming Christmas towns can be found across all 16 counties.
Whether you love the adrenaline rush of winter sports or the tranquility of a snowy stroll, there's no shortage of fun to be had. This is certainly a destination that calls to those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Holiday Events In Maine
Every season is great for exploring the state, but when winter arrives things start to feel a little bit more special. And, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Maine in winter. From taking in the splendor of local holiday lights to sharing in the community joy of lighting the town tree, there are plenty of ways to have fun. Gather your friends and family and head out to enjoy the many ways that a Maine winter can fill your heart with joy.
1. Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Family (2 adults/2 children): $48, Member Adult: $15, Member Child: $8
One of the most beloved events of the year is also one of the most magical. For years the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens have been inviting guests to experience a display of lights unlike any other. During Gardens Aglow more than 750,000 LED lights are placed throughout 14 acres of the central gardens. With special themed areas, immersive trails, and their famous trolls, this is one of the best events in the region for kids. As one of the most fun family things to do in Maine in winter, be sure to get your tickets early.
Popularity: Busy on weekends, but the lights stay up well into the new year so consider checking them out in January or February for less congestion.
Price: Free
Many of the light displays you’ll see during the holiday season involve tickets and some level of planning. We love that the lights in Portland only require…a visit to this beautiful city! Stroll down Exchange Street, Commercial Street, and other areas in the Old Port area to take in the beauty of one of the most unique light displays in New England. The lights are truly more like an art installation, which makes sense considering they’re created through a collaboration between Portland Downtown and artist Pandora LaCasse. After exploring the Old Port, consider driving around town to see the trees adorned in lights at Deering Oaks and other outlying areas.
There are tree lightings throughout the state, but if you’re coming from away you might find Portland to be most convenient. If that’s the case you certainly can’t go wrong by attending the annual tree lighting in Monument Square. One of the best free things to do in Maine in winter, locals and visitors converge on the square to kick off the season just after Thanksgiving. The tree will be illuminated on November 24, 2023. Be sure to wear mittens and come with a sense of wonder.
There’s nothing quite like the lighting of Nubble Lighthouse in Maine. One of the most quintessential Maine events, the lighting of Nubble might be the most joyous time of the year. This year’s lighting takes place on Saturday, November 25, 2023. Best of all, the lights will remain sparkly and bright until mid-February, 2024. This is one of the most quintessential things to do in Maine in winter.
Christmas Towns In Maine
If ever there was a state made for the magic of Christmas, it’s Maine! Strip away the lights and the snow-covered landscape already feels like a wonderland. But, add a dose of sparkle and some holiday cheer and it’s as if we’ve been transported to one of those Christmas villages you place on your mantel. Here are a few Maine Christmas towns that feel extra-special this holiday season. Plan a long weekend filled with the lights of Main Street, ice skating, and other family-friendly activities for a holiday to remember.
Of all the Christmas towns in the state, this year we believe Lewiston deserves a little extra attention. Those who come from away will want to continue driving past places like Kittery, Portland and Freeport until they reach the city, which might not be on the radar of those looking for quintessential holiday towns in Maine. However, the sparkle here is no less bright than it has been every other year. In fact, this year it might just sparkle more. Make your way to the annual Holiday on the Plaza event at Dufresne Plaza on December 2, 2023 from noon to 5:30 p.m. for ice skating on the ice rink, reindeer, photos with Santa, hot chocolate, horse sleigh and wagon rides along with lots of other fun activities. Be sure to stick around for the tree and Menorah lighting at 5:17 p.m. This year let’s show Lewiston just how much love they have from the east coast to the west coast.
The first weekend in December kicks off the holiday season here in Camden with the annual “Christmas by the Sea” celebration. Santa shows up in a lobster boat ready to bring cheer to Camden as well as the surrounding towns of Lincolnville and Rockport. While there are Christmas-related events taking place throughout the season, we love simply walking around town and taking in the lights lining the downtown streets.
Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude might just be the most well-known holiday event in southern Maine. With 20 days of holiday events, fun, and cheer there’s a reason why this period of time is one of the most popular times to visit the small town. Enjoy a parade, the tree lighting and a holiday market among lots of other festivities. Or, if you simply want to visit you’ll find a town filled with beauty and sparkle.
With the help of L. L. Bean, the annual Northern Lights Celebration is one of the most beloved in New England. Taking place on-site at the store’s campus, enjoy a visit with Santa and his reindeer, as well as lots of other events that are perfect for both kids and adults. The town of Freeport takes things a bit further with their annual Sparkle Celebration. This 10-day festival begins on December 1, 2023 and runs through December 10, 2023. Visitors can enjoy a parade of lights, along with a variety of other festive fun.
The small town of Gardiner may not be on the radar of those traveling from away, but it’s certainly one of the most lively Christmas towns in the state. Starting with the annual tree lighting on December 1, 2023 followed by the Gardiner Parade of Lights the very next day, the holidays here are as sparkly as anywhere else in the state.
Outdoor Activities
Year-round, Mainers love to get outside. From hiking to biking and everything in between, this state was made for outdoor enthusiasts. But, wintertime can commonly be overlooked as a great time to enjoy the fresh air. This winter season, consider carving out some time to enjoy a new activity outside. Entry for some state parks and trails is discounted, making outdoor fun one of the best cheap things to do in Maine in winter.
Popularity: Popular on Weekends and school vacation weeks
Price: 2023 - 2024 season pricing is TBD, but will be posted on the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center website when available.
You can make your way to the Carrabassett Valley for a variety of fun outdoor activities, but one of the best one-stop-shops is a visit to the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center located at one of the most popular ski resorts in the region. When you want a break from skiing, consider enjoying some time on the NHL-sized rink. Rentals are available for both kids and adults. The rink typically opes in mid-December and remains open for fun until approximately mid-March. If you’re a hockey lover you’ll want to visit on Thursday night hockey night when sticks and pucks are allowed. During the season, the rink is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. during vacation weeks. Kids and adults can enjoy Saturday Family Night Ice Skating from 5 p.m to 7 p.m.
Price: Season passes for downhill skiing range from $180 to $265 depending on age. The mountain also offers passes for just Nordic skiing as well as combo passes for both.
While most people are familiar with places like Sugarloaf, Sunday River, and Camden Snow Bowl, many don’t realize that there are lots of great other options. We love the small, but mighty Titcomb Mountain which is located in Farmington. The 750-foot slope offers 16 alpine trails for all levels, including beginner all the way to expert. There’s also a terrain park for skiers and riders. This ski area is the perfect Maine spot.
Popularity: Popular on weekends and during school vacation weeks.
Price: $34 per person for those 48″ and taller or get a combo ticket for $50 per one child (40″ to 47″) and 1 adult.
There’s nothing more exhilarating than the rush of snow tubing and some of the best can be done in Windham at Seacoast Adventure. Each year they create multiple lanes for tubing and they even have an express lift to the top. That means you don’t need to trudge back up every single time you enjoy a ride. Choose from a single tube or a combo ticket which provides a tube for an adult and a child at a discounted rate. Each session lasts two hours, perfect for plenty of rides!
13. Guided Trail Horse Ride at Carousel Horse Farm
Price: $80 to $125 per session depending on the ride. Visit the Carousel Horse Farm website for updated information.
For a truly unique experience in Maine, head to the Carousel Horse Farm in Casco for a guided trail ride. The farm also offers private rides, as well as rides catered specifically for beginners. Enjoy your time exploring the miles of trails in the region while also learning about the proper care for your horse friend. Rides are especially beautiful in the winter, though you can visit year-round.
Winter Getaways
The only thing better than calling Maine home is having the opportunity to visit. It’s considerably easier to enjoy fun winter activities when you can wake up bright and early and enjoy the day from start to finish. Plan a long weekend, an entire week, or make it a remote-work dream by staying for all the winter months! Whichever you choose, we recommend a stay at any of these unique vacation rentals. Each one is perfect for making a cup of hot cocoa and cozying up with your favorite L.L. Bean slippers.
Price: Varies depending on season, but averages $600 per night.
This ski chalet in Bethel is perfect for those who enjoy skiing. Located about 12 minutes from Sunday River Ski Resort, it’s easy to spend the day on the slopes before returning home for a dip in the hot tub. We love the idea of cooking a meal in the beautiful kitchen, but getting to downtown Bethel for a meal only takes five minutes. There are three floors of living space, and lots of cozy places to hide away with a good book. The point of a getaway can be any mix of relaxation and adventure and this cabin offers both.
Price: Varies depending on season, but averages $475 per night.
Sleep among the trees in this cabin on stilts that feels like a truly unique treehouse experience. The tiny home is one of two on the property and was built to be an eco-retreat. The luxury, carbon-free homes are perfect for taking in the beauty of the Maine forest while also staying conscious of the impact we all have on the environment. The home sleeps four people in two bedrooms and has one bathroom. A stay here is one of the most romantic things to do in Maine in winter.
Price: Varies depending on season, but averages $300 per night.
Located on the banks of the Penobscot River, this waterfront getaway is absolutely fantastic for a quiet getaway either alone or with family and friends. The cottage sleeps up to four people in one-bedroom and other spaces and has one-and-a-half bathrooms. Enjoy your time on the deck looking out over the water or adventure off to nearby places like Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park and Mid-Coast Maine which are all only 45 minutes away. And, when you’re done exploring you can head back for a relaxing dip in the hot tub. Enjoy Maine on your terms with a stay at this fantastic spot on the water.
Winters in Maine can feel longer than they do in other states. That's why it's imperative that we find as many fun things to do in Maine in winter to keep us busy until the glimmers of spring appear. Have you enjoyed any of the Maine winter activities on this list? If so we'd love to hear your tips and tricks for how to make a visit fantastic. And, if you think we left anything off, please let us know in the comments.
Of course, one of the most important things to keep in mind when enjoying winter in Maine is the cold. As you plan your seasonal fun be sure to check out our ultimate winter packing list to be sure you stay warm and prepared.
Every season in Maine is fantastic, but winter is especially magical. From incredible cold-weather hikes to restaurants that are extra cozy when the temperatures dip, we think Vacationland might just be the best place to be after autumn. There are quite a few reasons to love winter here, but one of the highest on my list is Christmas. And, best of all, each year there are several events taking place throughout the state to help celebrate. From simply enjoying get-togethers with friends and family to taking part in special events hosted by local Maine towns, there are seemingly endless ways to get into the holiday spirit. We encourage you to explore all of them, but a Freeport Maine Christmas might just be our favorite.
advertisement
There's a reason Mainers look forward to the Northern Lights event in Freeport every year! It's one of the most magical Christmas events in the state. It typically begins in mid-November and runs through the end of December. That's five beautiful weeks of holiday cheer while celebrating Christmas in Maine.
The fun kicks off at opening night on Friday, November 17, 4-8 p.m. with a tree lighting ceremony at 6:45 p.m. The tree is located just outside the L.L. Bean Flagship Store.
Children and adults alike gathered together to partake in a bit of holiday magic.
Visitors can also enjoy "Holidays Around the World" where visitors are invited to scan codes to learn more about how holidays are celebrated all over the world.
Each day of the week offers another fun activity to enjoy. On Mondays be sure to bring your pet for a photo op with Santa. From Fridays to Sundays, you can visit with Santa and his reindeer in the Holiday Activity Barn. The other days of the week also offer fun events including crafts and even a curling demonstration.
From December 1st through 10th, Visit Freeport hosts the annual Sparkle Celebration which kicks off with a Parade of Lights down Main Street. Freeport is one of the best Christmas towns in Maine, so you'll definitely want to check this out.
If it gets chilly be sure to visit the Warming benches. It offers a place to meet with friends and enjoy a cozy respite from the cold. We were surprised just how warm these benches were offering a great place to sit and still enjoy the lights without having to retreat inside.
Every couple of years L.L. Bean switches things up a bit, in years past they have had a massive singing Christmas tree, a cozy igloo, and an ice rink. This year they will be adding curling to the list of revolving attractions and allow guests to partake in a unique sport they may have never tried before.
Those who love the whimsical parts of the holidays will appreciate the model train village inside the L.L. Bean store. It's set in a quintessential New England town allowing for even more imagination.
There are events taking place throughout the entirety of this beautiful event, but whatever you do be sure to visit Santa and his reindeer! They sit right outside and love little visitors.
There's so much more to experience during the Northern Lights festival, so you might want to visit a few times leading up to Christmas. But if you only have time for one weekend, be sure to make it there for the kick-off and lighting! It's an experience you won't forget.
Check out just how magical this place is by watching this Adventuring in the Moment video. We hope it inspires you to get outside and venture over to this enchanting attraction.
The Northern Lights Celebration takes place at the L.L. Bean Flagship store in Freeport from November 17th through December 31st, 2023. You can learn more about all the ways you can enjoy your time for those magical five weeks by visiting the Northern Lights Celebration website. You can also follow L.L. Bean on Facebook to keep up with the schedule of events or to simply start planning your visit.
After enjoying time in one of the best Christmas towns in Maine, be sure to make your way to Boothbay for Gardens Aglow at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. It's a great way to get into the holiday spirit while being awed by over 650,000 lights. But, be sure to bundle up in something warm. This walk is beautiful, but can certainly get chilly if it's cold outside.
