It’s Not Christmas In Maine Until You Do These 13 Enchanting Things
Despite the fact that everyone seems to start a little early, the official start of Christmas season really seems to begin the day after Thanksgiving ends. But, there are a few things you need to accomplish before it’s truly Christmas here in Maine. Once you’ve done these things, consider yourself ready for the main event!

Try the Kennebunk Christmas Prelude for one of the most festive versions of this tradition.

While the actual lighting ceremony was Saturday, November 26th you can still check out the lights in all their glory every night.

If we weren't supposed to use Maine's favorite crustacean as a decoration at Christmas, would they be red and look so great with the green of a wreath or tree? Think about THAT.

Or, more specifically...

This annual production recreates the interiors of Victoria Mansion and interprets Tchaikovsky’s score through the stories of Portland’s nineteenth-century families. See it December 7th, 18th and 23rd.

On December 3rd at 4pm, fine folks dressed as Santas will converge upon Portland. Then, they'll take over this city in a fairly annoying way and drink their way around the Old Port. But, don't get mad - join in! It's all in the name of a good cause - donations will be collected for Family Crisis Services.

Check out the Christmas tree in Cape Porpoise for a great example!

Thankfully, the Maine Christmas Tree Association makes sure you always have a place to do this. No fake trees around these parts!

Will it happen this year?! We have our fingers crossed for a white Christmas!

But don't choose just any pond! Make sure the ice is thick enough. THEN, throw on some L.L. Bean winter-gear and head out!

There's even a distillery, brewery and a place for dinner! Visit them at: 10 Thompsons Point, Portland / 207-747-9399

This is the largest holiday light display in all of Maine. Take a trip through 14 acres of gardens covered in no less than 150,000 lights. Stick around for dinner at the cafe which has a seasonal menu as well as live music. Check it out Thursdays-Sundays, November 21st through December 31st
Visit them at: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, 132 Botanical Gardens Drive, Boothbay / 207-633-8000

Just kidding. Don't do that. That's not a Christmas thing to do.
Did you miss our favorite Christmas lights in Maine? Click here to read up on the 11 best displays!