When thinking about Maine vacations, December may not be the first month that comes to mind. However, if you take a look at the list of activities and events in Maine, December 2020…
…you will see that this can be a great time of year to visit.
Yes, you will need to dress warmly, but the late fall and early winter weather are just perfect for holiday shopping, Santa visits, tree lightings…
…and all of the other things to do in Maine in December.
Craft shows, holiday festivals, Santa parades, concerts, horse-drawn wagon rides, and living Nativities, are all part of the list of things to do…
…as is enjoying the magic of the hundreds of dazzling Christmas light displays in Maine that help brightens a sometimes dreary December sky.
A Maine Christmas also means ski season, with many popular ski resorts hosting their own activities and events in Maine in December.
The holiday spirit is everywhere, and to encourage Christmas vacations in Maine, and make them affordable, most hotels, motels, inns, and bed and breakfasts…
…offer excellent holiday hotel deals and vacation packages during December.
Restaurants and shops will also be welcoming visitors, with discounts and specials right though to the Maine New Year’s Eve celebrations for 2021.
| January | February | March | April | May | June |
| July | August | September | October | November | December |
Read where other travelers say the best places to stay in Maine are…
…and find the best Maine hotel deals, while comparing prices on hotels in Maine, motels, inns and B&B’s.
Do you sponsor a Maine event, or know of one to share?
If so, the form at the bottom of this page is for you! Use it for Activities and Events in Maine, December 2020, or any other time of year. Share Maine winter activities, or things to do in Maine in the spring, summer or fall.
Your event may already be included on the Great-Maine-Vacations.com Maine event calendar. If it is and you would like to update event information, please contact me and I will make the appropriate changes.
December Maine Event Calendar 2020
With all the things to do in Maine in December, this list will continue to grow. Please check back periodically to see what current events have been added.
Very important…
Activities and events in Maine, December 2020 may not reflect schedule changes or cancellations. Before heading out, confirm event dates and event locations.
Activities and Events in Maine, December 2020 are listed by event date. For maps and driving directions click on the Map links.
Northern Lights Celebration L.L. Bean – Continued from November
When: Friday, November 20, 2020 – Thursday, December, 31, 2020
Where: Freeport, Maine – Map
More information: L.L. Bean, Northern Lights Celebration
Freeport, Maine Hotels…
Gardens Aglow – Continued from November
When: Saturday, November 21, 2020 – Thursday, December 31, 2020 (Thursday through Sunday, Closed Christmas Day)
Where: Boothbay, Maine – Map
More information: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Gardens Aglow
Polar Express Train – Continued from November
When: Select dates from Friday, November 27, 2020 – Wednesday, December 23, 2020
Where: Portland, Maine – Map
More information: Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum
Portland, Maine bed and breakfasts…
Waterville Parade of Lights and Kringleville – Continued from November
When: Parade of Lights: Friday, November 27, 2020, Kringleville: Friday November 27 until just before Christmas
Where: Waterville, Maine – Map
More information: Waterville Main Street, Kringleville
An Old Fashioned Christmas Bath, Maine – Continued from November
When: Saturday, November 28, 2020 – Thursday, December 31, 2020
Where: Bath, Maine – Map
More information: Main Street Bath
Gardiner Days of Light – Continued from November
When: Saturday, November 30, 2020 – Thursday, December 31, 2020
Where: Gardiner, Maine – Map
More information: Gardiner Main Street
More Activities and Events in Maine, December 2020…
Auburn Lights – No Show for 2020 (See link below)
When: Saturday, December 6, 2014 – Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Where: Auburn, Maine – Map
More information: Auburn Lights
Free for everyone!
Come see nearly 180,000 dancing lights choreographed to the music of some Christmas Favorites and some other surprises.
Lights run nightly (weather permitting) through New Year’s Eve.
Location: 60 Vista Drive Auburn, Maine.
Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude
When: Wednesday, December 2, 2020 – Sunday, December 13, 2020
Where: Kennebunkport, Maine – Map
More information: Christmas Prelude
Dozens of holiday themed activities are scheduled each year for the Annual Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport. Just a peak at the 2020 events…
The Nonantum Resort’s 12 Days of Christmas, Prelude Show of Fine Arts and Crafts, Prelude Trolley Rides, Tree Lighting in Dock Square, Live Nativity, Cape Porpoise Lobster Trap Tree Lighting…
…”Mainely Unique” Annual Craft Fair, Lobster Buoy Workshop, Historic Inns of Kennebunkport Open House, “Chocolate Chaud” French Hot Chocolate Service, Fish Chowder Supper, Public Chili Luncheon, Down East Wine Tasting, 34th Annual Firehouse Lobster Bake, Cookie Crawl, Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus…
…Hats off to Prelude, Pooch Parade, plenty of holiday food, shopping, live music, bonfire, fireworks and much, much more!
Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts…
Olde Parsonage Christmas Fair
When: Friday, December 4, 2020
Where: Kittery, Maine – Map
More information: First Congregational Church of Kittery Point, United Church of Christ
The First Congregational Church will host its annual Christmas Craft Fair on Dec. 4, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the Olde Parsonage at 23 Pepperrell Road.
This year’s fair will offer homemade gifts and decorations, antiques and collectibles. Kid’s “Shop and Wrap”, decorated greens, wearable arts and other fun holiday surprises.
Village Holidays and Midnight Madness Sale
When: Friday, December 4, 2020
Where: Bar Harbor, Maine – Map
More information: Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, Village Holidays and Midnight Madness Sale
Come to the Village Green at 4:30 PM for hot cocoa and holiday music while everyone awaits Santa’s arrival and a 5:00 PM tree lighting. The good times will continue at the MDI YMCA, from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM, with fun family-oriented activities.
A Midnight Madness Sale with special holiday discounts will run from 8:00 PM ’til Midnight.
Bar Harbor, Maine hotels…
Jingle Bell Express
When: Friday, December 4, 2020 – Saturday, December 5, 2020
Where: Rockland, Maine – Map
More information: Maine Eastern Railroad
In just an hour you can travel by train from Rockland, ME to the North Pole. Well, actually to Thomaston, ME – but do your little ones need to know that? Once they look out the train windows and see the North Pole elves hard at work, and get a visit from Santa, they’ll surely be convinced that they have been magically transported.
29th Annual Christmas by the Sea
When: Friday, December 4, 2020 – Sunday, December 6, 2020
Where: Camden, Maine – Map
More information: Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce, Events
Camden, Lincolnville and Rockport, Maine have a weekend-long holiday schedule of events that includes musical entertainment, a holiday parade, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, dining and shopping specials, photos and children’s story hour with Santa (who arrives by lobster boat) and much more!
Camden, Maine Vacation Rentals…
Annual Freeport Sparkle Weekend
When: Friday, December 4, 2020 – Sunday, December 6, 2020
Where: Freeport, Maine – Map
More information: Freeport Sparkle Celebration
Your kids AND you, are going to get a kick out of the Freeport Talking Christmas Tree that not only talks, but sings Christmas carols too! Freeport’s Sparkle weekend offers other great family holiday events…
…the Parade of Lights, horse-drawn wagon rides, a musical holiday light show, New England crafters and artists, ice-carvings, a tuba concert and more – including caroling, candy canes and Santa, a train ride on the Sparkle Express on the Amtrak Downeaster.
Freeport, Maine hotels…
More Activities and Events in Maine, December 2020…
“Holiday Offerings – 2020” at Richard Boyd Art Gallery
When: Friday, December 4, 2020 – Sunday, January 31, 2021
Where: Peaks Island, Portland, Maine – Map
More information: Richard Boyd Art Gallery
Christopher Reed – “Ethereal Embrace” – Oil on Canvas 18″ x 24″. Copyright(C) 2020 Richard Boyd Art Gallery All Rights Reserved.
Richard Boyd Art Gallery opens an annual group exhibition of paintings and sculptures created by gallery artists on December 4, at 10:00 AM. The exhibit features a selection of art works in a broad range of styles from contemporary to traditional realism, covering an array of subjects, in a variety of mediums.
On exhibit are works by gallery artists’ Rob Anderson – paintings in oil; Amy Bickford – paintings in gouache and watercolors; Michael J. Caudle – paintings in watercolors; Charles Ellithorpe, DVM – bronze sculptures; Wyn Foland – paintings in a variety of mediums; Julianne Garvey – paintings in watercolors; Jane Herbert – paintings in acrylic; Jean Noon – mixed media sculptures; Christopher Reed – paintings in oil; Bob Santandrea – images in pastel; Felicity Sidwell – paintings in oil; William Steele – paintings in oil; and Wilson Stewart – paintings in a variety of mediums.
The exhibit is open to the public free of charge from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through January 2021. Additional days and times by appointment.
Richard Boyd Art Gallery is located on Peaks Island in Portland, ME at the corner of Island Avenue and Epps Street, in the first building on the right, on the first floor.
For additional information about the exhibit please contact the gallery by phone at 207-712-1097, via email at info@richardboydartgallery.com or visit www.richardboydartgallery.com .
For weekly news and updates please like the gallery on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RichardBoydArtGallery .
Annual Boothbay Harbor Lights Festival
When: Saturday, December 5, 2020
Where: Boothbay Harbor, Maine – Map
More information: Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce
Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves, moose and lobster will be arriving by boat – they can do this in Maine! Along with a visit from the Claus’ festival highlights include a craft show, tree lighting, holiday carols, story time, horse-drawn carriage rides and a lighted boat parade.
Boothbay Harbor rentals…
Belgrade Lakes Holiday Stroll
When: Saturday, December 5, 2020
Where: Belgrade, Maine – Map
More information: Belgrade Lakes Business Group
From the 2014 Holiday Stroll (waiting on 2020 event details)…
From 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM the Village will celebrate the holiday season with a Tree Lighting in the Village Triangle, lots of luminaries and lights, and singing provided by the Messalonskee High School Chorus.
Bridgton Festival of Lights
When: Saturday, December 5, 2020
Where: Bridgton, Maine – Map
More information: Greater Bridgton Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce, Calendar
A Festival of Lights Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting makes for a fun family outing in Bridgton on the first Saturday of December.
Holiday Light Parade
When: Saturday, December 5, 2020
Where: Presque Isle, Maine – Map
More information: Crown of Maine, Events
The Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the 26th Annual Holiday Light Parade on December 5th, beginning at 6:00 PM. Line up for the parade is at the University of Maine Presque Isle at 4:30 PM.
Yarmouth Holiday Craft Show
When: Saturday, December 5, 2020
Where: Yarmouth, Maine – Map
More information: Society of Southern Maine Craftsmen, Calendar page
A juried craft show featuring Maine made, handcrafted products by artisans of the Society of Southern Maine Craftsmen will be held at the AMVET Post #2 (148 North Road). Drawing to be held to win a basket full of items donated by our crafters.
Show hours: Saturday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (this is a one-day show). Free admission and ample parking!
More Activities and Events in Maine, December 2020…
York Festival of Lights
When: Saturday, December 5, 2020
Where: York, Maine – Map
More information: Town of York Parks and Recreation, Events
In addition to the Festival of Lights Parade (with marching bands, clowns, floats, antique cars and more) and visits with Santa Claus, events will include the lighting of the Village Square, caroling, a Christmas Tea at Jefferds Tavern, the play “A Christmas Carol”, and more!
38th Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
When: Saturday, December 5, 2020 – Sunday, December 6, 2020
Where: Portland, Maine – Map
More information: United Maine Craftsmen
Holiday shopping made fun and easy at the USM Sullivan Gym, 66 Falmouth Street, Portland, ME. Quality gifts handcrafted by over 100 Maine artisans.
Hours: Saturday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Admission is $2, kids under 12 are free.
Portland, Maine hotels…
Build a Cozy Cottage
When: Saturday, December 6, 2014 – This event will NOT be held in 2020! However, Cozy Cottage Kits, for home assembly, can be purchased at Wilburs. Please visit link below for more information.
Where: Freeport, Maine – Map
More information: Event contact information: 207.865.4071, Wilbur’s of Maine
Be sure to make your reservation ahead of time for the Cozy Cottage at 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM or 2:30 PM!
The popular Cozy Cottage has returned for another season! Bring your family to our factory to assemble and decorate a chocolate house! Make Wilbur’s part of your family traditions with this fantastic event. You must call to reserve your time slot (choices above). Please have the number of people in your party ready when you call. Cost is $25 per house.
Event takes place at Wilbur’s of Maine, 174 Lower Main Street in Freeport.
Sunday River Santa Sunday
When: Sunday, December 6, 2020
Where: Newry, Maine – Map
More information: Sunday River
Celebrate the arrival of winter and the holiday season while raising money for a good cause. A full Santa costume will allow you to ski or ride for free. However, pre-registration is required!
Registration takes place in November, with an exact day and time announced on the Sunday River website (see link above). Registration is limited to 250 Santa’s and usually fills very, very quickly – so mark your calendar!
More Activities and Events in Maine, December 2020…
Mountain Holly Days
When: Thursday, December 10, 2020 – Sunday, December 13, 2020
Where: Rangeley, Maine – Map
More information: Rangeley Lakes Chamber of Commerce, Calendar of Events
The Rangeley Mountain Holly Days typically include a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, special discounts at participating merchants, a community Christmas party and more.
Community Holiday Celebration and Craft Fair
When: Friday, December 11, 2020 – Saturday, December 12, 2020
Where: Southwest Harbor, Maine – Map
More information: Southwest Harbor and Tremont Chamber of Commerce, Upcoming Events
Santa Claus will be coming to town for the Christmas Celebration in Southwest Harbor! Local crafts people selling handmade gifts at the Old Yellow Schoolhouse, a tree lighting, pictures with Santa, hay rides, refreshments and a production of “A Downeast Christmas Carol” will be among the fun holiday events.
Annual Christmas by the Sea Celebration Ogunquit
When: Friday, December 11, 2020 – Sunday, December 13, 2020
Where: Ogunquit, Maine – Map
More information: Ogunquit Maine Chamber of Commerce, Christmas by the Sea Celebration
Ogunquit, ME gears up for the season with a wonderful holiday weekend. Carolers, concerts, the Ogunquit tree lighting, hay rides, visits with Santa, an arts and crafts show, holiday storytelling, a Christmas parade, homemade food and lots of other holiday family events – and more – have all been part of previous year’s events. Expect just as much fun at the 2020 Ogunquit Christmas by the Sea.
Ogunquit, Maine hotels…
Sugarloaf Holiday Gift Bazaar
When: Saturday, December 12, 2020 – Sunday, December 13, 2020
Where: Carrabassett Valley, Maine – Map
More information: Sugarloaf Mountain, Events Calendar
The annual Sugarloaf Gift Bazaar provides a great opportunity for holiday shopping. Bring the family, as there will be kid’s activities and much more!
Southern Maine Christmas Parade
When: Sunday, December 13, 2020
Where: Wells, Maine – Map
More information: Southern Maine Parade
The 30th Annual Wells Christmas parade will begin at the Wells Plaza parking lot at 2:00 PM and continue north on U.S. Route 1 to the Wells Junior High School. This year’s theme – “Home for the Holidays”.
8th Annual NRCM Polar Dip n’ Dash
When: Thursday, December 31, 2020
Where: Portland, Maine – Map
More information: Natural Resource Council of Maine, Dip and Dash
Be bold in the cold with a plunge into the Atlantic and/or winter jaunt around the East End to support the Natural Resources Council of Maine’s work to reduce climate change pollution.
A 5K or ocean dip in winter in Maine to raise funds to combat global warming is fitting. Weather patterns are changing from one extreme to the next and our seas are rising. The effects of climate change on Maine’s environment are severe.
Energy efficiency, clean air, and renewable energy sources are a priority for the National Resource Council of Maine. Every cent you raise will be used to directly support this work and consequently help to reduce harmful global warming emissions.
Portland, Maine bed and breakfasts…
2021 New Year’s Eve Events in Maine
…or New Year’s Eve Events in Maine for 2020 (depending on how you look at it!). Either way…
…the list of fun events for New Year’s in Maine …
…includes many family activities as well as great getaways for couples. The holiday season in Maine is actually quite fun!
You may also be interested in:
Christmas in Maine
Christmas Tree Shop Maine
Christmas Wreaths From Maine
Maine Weather Forecast
Are you Planning Events in Maine for 2020?
…or know of one that should be shared? Just send me the details and I will be happy to include it in the appropriate section. You can send additions to Activities and Events in Maine, December 2020, other Maine winter activities, or Maine things to do in the spring, summer or fall!
Please note…
Great-Maine-Vacations.com does not post political events. I may have a dedicated page for that purpose in the future, but in the interim, I do not have the resources to accommodate them. I appreciate your understanding.