The 11 Most Magical Christmas Towns in Maine

After Thanksgiving, with full bellies and happy hearts, we are ready for all things Christmas and the magic that comes with it. One state that knows how to celebrate well? Maine. The Pine Tree State isn't just primed for the holiday season because of its fresh fallen snow—it's also full of plenty of quaint towns and neighborhoods that serve as the perfect holiday backdrop.

From festive light displays to holiday parades, lobster pot trees, and everything in between, here are 11 of the best Christmas towns to visit in Maine this year.

1. Kennebunkport, York County

You can't miss out on the holiday spirit when celebrating in Kennebunkport. The annual Christmas Prelude runs from December 4 to 14, and features two tree lightings and lots of merriment. Festivities begin with a tree lighting ceremony in Dock Square on December 5 at 5:30 p.m. Then, enjoy Christmas Candlelight Caroling on December 6 at 6:30 p.m., with the Franciscans at Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto. Don't miss greeting Santa by lobster boat on December 7 at 1 p.m. either.

2. Bath, Sagadahoc County

Bath, Maine, celebrates Christmas throughout the month with its annual "Old-Fashioned Christmas" celebration. The festivities begin on November 29 with a tree lighting at the gazebo, followed by Bright Night on December 5, featuring holiday light displays all around the waterfront town, and Downtown Day on December 13, which will highlight the historic district's shops and restaurants. Stop by the iconic Hallett's Clock on Front Street for a photo-op!

3. Bar Harbor, Hancock County

Bar Harbor, Maine, is always aglow in December, especially for its Village Holidays event. Things kick off on December 5 at 4:30 p.m. with carolers and hot cocoa downtown (right near this iconic lobster claw awning pictured above). Then, Santa shows up and leads attendees to the Mount Desert Island YMCA for family activities and crafts. And you can't forget the annual Village Holidays sale, where the most adorable holiday ornaments and trinkets can be found.

4. Owls Head, Knox County

The Owls Head Transportation Museum in Owls Head, Maine, is where Christmas comes alive. On December 7, stop by for Holidays at the Museum—a free event where you can meet Santa, the Grinch, and see dozens of old snowmobiles and cars decked out for the holidays. Kids can bring their letters to Santa, which will get delivered directly to the North Pole. The rest of the town will have fun decorations and light displays, too.

5. Portland, Cumberland County

Head to Monument Square in Portland, Maine, on November 28 for the annual Christmas tree lighting. Then, stop by for Holidays on the Rocks from November 30 to December 31, which involves intricate ice carvings, a maker's holiday market, and a spectacular light display across the Rock Row waterfront campus. For one of the best views, book your space on Casco Bay Cruises to see the sights. Or, hop aboard the Narrow Gauge Railroad's Polar Express.

6. Freeport, Cumberland County

Along with the stunning Wolf's Neck Woods State Park in Freeport, Maine, the town also hosts the annual Sparkle Celebration from December 5 to 14. This magical event includes a Parade of Lights on December 5 down Main Street, Christmas markets and treats, Santa and elf sightings, and a talking Christmas tree on the corner of Main and Bow Street. It's fun for the entire family—plus there are several cozy restaurants and hotels nearby.

7. Waterville, Kennebec County

Welcome to Waterville, Maine, also known as "Kringleville" during the holiday season. This quaint town goes all out for the season, starting with a Parade of Lights on November 29. You can join in carrying on the Kringleville tradition, which began in 1969 when volunteers brought a little log cabin to Castonguay Square to light it up for Christmastime. This is where you can visit Santa to this day (he is there every day of the week except Mondays), before he prepares for Christmas Eve.

8. Camden, Knox County

Enjoy Christmas by the Sea during Camden, Maine's, annual holiday event on the first weekend of December. The festivities begin with an opening ceremony at the public library, followed by live choirs and entertainment, a holiday parade, stores open late, carriage rides, and a tree lighting in Harbor Park. The event, held by the Camden Area Business Group, will make you feel like you've been transported to a Hallmark movie.

9. Gardiner, Kennebec County

Gardiner, Maine, doesn't just spend one weekend celebrating Christmas. Here, it's a months-long affair. After the Shop Small Saturday for holiday crafts on November 14, and the annual tree lighting on November 29, visit Johnson Hall Opera House for the Festival of Trees from December 4 to 7. Then, on the evening of December 6, head downtown for the annual Holiday Parade of Lights down Water Street, which also involves an exciting Ugly Sweater Contest with fun prizes beforehand.

10. Bangor, Penobscot County

Come to Downtown Bangor on Saturday, December 3rd, for Santa's Workshop with free cookie decorating. Santa's appearance will take place at 58 Main Street from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Following Santa's visit, the Festival of Lights Parade will begin at 4:30 pm. The parade is presented by the Rotary Club of Bangor, Maine, and will celebrate this year's theme, "Holidays from around the World." For more information, click here.

11. Presque Isle, Aroostook County

Presque Isle, Maine, in Aroostook County, boasts some of the coziest and fun holiday traditions. Make your way to the town's 36th annual Holiday Light Parade on December 6—featuring handmade floats and decorations, lights, and Santa and Mrs. Claus on their sleigh.

The spectacle even includes various float categories, including Parade Champion, Best Business, Best Non-Profit, Best Faith-Based, and Best General Float. Or, attend the Victorian Christmas at the Estey—a historic house that will be decked out with traditional decorations, a scavenger hunt for kids, and live music on December 12 and 13.

There you have it: The best and most magical Christmas towns in Maine. Ready to plan a trip to experience them all for yourself? Try Only In Your State's itinerary planner to get the most festive dining, lodging, and sightseeing recommendations for a winter wonderland getaway.