Activities and Events in Maine
December 2011

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 2011...

...you will see that this can be a good time of year to visit Maine.

Yes, you will need to dress warmly, but the late fall and early winter weather is 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, Christmas parades, concerts, horse drawn wagon rides, living Nativities, and much more, are all part of Christmas in Maine...

...as are the hundreds of dazzling Christmas light displays in Maine that can help brighten the sometimes dreary December skies.

Christmastime in Maine also means ski season, with Maine 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...

...will offer holiday Maine hotel deals, and vacation packages throughout December.

Restaurants and shops will also be welcoming visitors with all kinds of discounts and specials, right though the Maine New Year's Eve celebrations.

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 2011, 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 2011

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 2011 may not reflect schedule changes or cancellations. Before heading out, confirm event dates and event locations.

Activities and Events in Maine, December 2011 are listed by event date. For maps and driving directions click on the Map links.

When: Saturday, November 19, 2011 - Friday, December 31, 2011
Where: Freeport, Maine - Map
More information: L.L. Bean website, Events page

Join L.L. Bean at their flagship store in Freeport, Maine for fun activities and product demonstrations, holiday crafts events for kids...

...a traditional Christmas tree, horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers and entertainment, and much more...

...all in a wonderland of an "incredible display of lights". L.L. Bean will be hosting things to do and see every day until New Year's 2012.

Freeport, Maine hotels...

When: Friday, November 25, 2011 - Friday, December 23, 2011
Where: Portland, Maine - Map
More information: Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum website

Children are encouraged to wear pajamas as they board a decorated train at Ocean Gateway Pier in Portland, Maine for a memorable mile and a half ride along Casco Bay, to Santa's home in the North Pole. Along the way enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, a reading of the Polar Express story, and carols.

"The Polar Express is a major fundraiser for the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company and Museum, contributing more than 20% of annual revenues. Thank you for your support!" Advance purchase tickets are available and suggested.

Portland, Maine bed and breakfasts...

When: Friday, November 25, 2011 - Friday, December 24, 2011
Where: Bethel, Maine - Map
More information: Bethel Maine Chamber of Commerce website, Country Christmas in Bethel page

From Thanksgiving to Christmas, Bethel, Maine will be in a holiday spirit. Events will include the Local Craft and Wares Fair, free horse drawn wagon rides, Christmas at the Mason House, a Living Nativity on Bethel Commons, breakfast with Santa, a Jingle Bell Run, a holiday tree lighting and other holiday events.

Bethel, Maine hotels...

When: Thursday, December 1, 2011 (members only) - Saturday, December 3, 2011
Where: Camden, Maine - Map
More information: Merryspring Nature Center website, 2011 Calendar

In conjunction with the Annual Christmas by the Sea in Camden, the Merryspring Nature Center holds and annual Holiday Bazaar offering "plants, greens, wreaths, live arrangements and lots of exciting gifts for holiday giving and decorating".

When: Thursday, December 1, 2011 - Sunday, December 11, 2011
Where: Kennebunkport, Maine - Map
More information: Christmas Prelude website

Dozens of holiday themed activities are on the schedule of events for Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport, including...

...a Winter Warmers Open House, holiday shopping, art shows, holiday craft fairs, Historic Trolley Rides, Historic Village Walking Tours, tree lighting in Dock Square, a live Nativity, the Cape Porpoise Lobster Trap Tree, 5th Annual Hat Parade, Laura Bush book signing at Nonantum Resort and HB Provisions, lots of holiday food and live music and much, much more!

When: Thursday, December 1, 2011 - Sunday, December 11, 2011
Where: Belfast, Maine - Map
More information: Waterfall Arts website, Indie Craft Show and Sale page

The high-quality handmade goods and artwork of more than 40 indie crafters and alternative artists will be on display, and for sale at the Clifford Gallery in Belfast. The Gallery will be transformed into a modern marketplace featuring accessories, printed goods, clothing, hanging artwork and much more.

Among the featured artists, will be: Colleen Kinsella, Justin Richel, Shannon Rankin, Ferdinande, Strong Arm Bindery, Mosey Handmade, Dyan Berk, Morris + Essex, Kris Johnsen, CVIC Works, Eric Hou, Dylan Metrano, Orange Iron Fabrications, Mike Hadley, Zoa Chimerum, Katenia Keller, Lovelight Studio, Sour Owl in the Lele Tree, Magpie Creative, Local Girl Leather, Sisters Soap and many others.

More Activities and Events in Maine, December 2011...

When: Friday, December 2, 2011
Where: Rumford, Maine - Map
More information: Bethel, Maine Chamber of Commerce website, Event page

The 2nd Annual Local Vendor Fair will take place from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM in the lodge at Black Mountain of Maine. A variety of vendors will be on hand with locally made items that make great holiday gifts.

When: Friday, December 2, 2011
Where: Bar Harbor, Maine - Map
More information: Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce website, Village Holidays and Midnight Madness Sale page

Welcome Santa on the Village Green in Bar Harbor starting at 5:00 PM. Lots of activities for children AND adults will be on the schedule of events, including pictures with Santa at the YMCA. The Midnight Madness Sale runs from 8:00 PM to Midnight, with special discounts, music, food, drink and midnight raffles.

Bar Harbor, Maine hotels...

When: Friday, December 2, 2011 - Sunday, December 4, 2011
Where: Camden, Maine - Map
More information: Camden-Rockport-Lincolnville Chamber of Commerce website, Christmas by the Sea page

Sponsored by the Camden-Rockport-Lincolnville Chamber of Commerce...

Shopping, musical entertainment, a parade, community tree-lighting ceremony, horse drawn wagon rides, Holiday House Inn Tour, holiday sales, dining specials, photos and children's story hour with Santa (who arrives by boat) and much more are on the weekend-long Camden Christmas by the Sea schedule.

When: Saturday, December 3, 2011
Where: York, Maine - Map
More information: Town of York Parks and Recreation Department website, Events page

"See York Village come alive with lights & watch the annual Holiday Parade, fairs, caroling, Santa Claus, Church suppers and more."

More Activities and Events in Maine, December 2011...

When: Saturday, December 3, 2011
Where: Boothbay Harbor, Maine - Map
More information: Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce website, Harbor Lights Festival page

"Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by boat, holiday craft fair, lighting of the town tree, holiday carols, live Nativity, and spectacular boat parade."

Boothbay Harbor rentals...

When: Saturday, December 3, 2011 - Sunday, December 4, 2011 (see also Friday, December 9, 2011 - Sunday, December 11, 2011)
Where: Ogunquit, Maine - Map
More information: Ogunquit Maine Chamber of Commerce website, Christmas by the Sea Celebration page

Two wonderful holiday weekends are filled with...

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!

Ogunquit, Maine hotels...

Discount Tickets for Maine Events (or events anywhere)...

Great discounts for Maine Black Bears and Portland Pirates games, and all kinds of concerts and other fun Maine things to do.

When: Saturday, December 3, 2011 - Sunday, December 4, 2011
Where: Portland, Maine - Map
More information: United Maine Craftsmen website

Ninety-five Maine Artisans will be on hand selling handcrafted holiday gifts. The show also includes "free gift-wrapping and hourly door prize."

Portland, Maine hotels...

When: Sunday, December 4, 2011
Where: Old Orchard Beach, Maine - Map
More information: Old Orchard Beach Chamber of Commerce website, Activities and Events page

The Old Orchard Christmas by the Sea events includes free horse-drawn hay wagon rides, face painting, a Christmas tree lighting, a holiday parade, caroling, a bonfire on the beach, and appearances by Frosty, Rudolph, Santa and Mrs. Claus (who arrive by fire engine). For pictures with Santa be sure to bring a camera!

More Activities and Events in Maine, December 2011...

When: Sunday, December 4, 2011
Where: Newry, Maine - Map
More information: Sunday River website, Events Calendar page

"Come celebrate the arrival of winter and the upcoming holiday season while raising money for a good cause with our 12th Annual Santa Sunday."

A full Santa costume will allow you to ski or ride for free. However, pre-registration is required. Registration opens at noon on Monday, November 28th (Update Nov. 28, SOLD OUT in 6 minutes!).

When: Sunday, December 4, 2011
Where: Owl's Head Maine - Map
More information: Owl's Head Transportation Museum website, Polar Air Mail Express page

Big kids and little kids alike will get a big kick out of Santa's arrival in Owl's Head Maine, by plane - to pick up their Santa letters and see for himself that they are on the return flight to the North Pole. Event festivities include a holiday concert, a chance for kids to create their own ornaments (some with candy!), and a reading of Reindeer Christmas.

Owl's Head Transportation Museum admission will be free all day and the gift store will be open for holiday shopping.

When: Sunday, December 4, 2011
Where: Rockport, Maine - Map
More information: Swing & Sway Dancing website

This dazzling Holiday Showcase features classic Ballroom and Latin dances such as...

...sassy Foxtrot and sexy Rumba, to Hip Hop, Contemporary, Tap and choreographed groups.

Spectacular costuming and performances by amateurs just like yourself...

...as well as nationally-acclaimed professionals of every age, including:

• US National Rising Star Professional Ballroom Champion, Christian Clayton
• Kinetic Energy Alive
• Rockport Dance Conservatory
• Nathifa Shakti Belly Dancing

But don't just watch; join in on the fun! Social dancing will be offered before the performance and at intermission. Concessions by Atlantic Baking Company.

We've been known to sell out, so don't wait; Fun for all ages. Get your tickets today! $12 in advance/$15 at the door. 207-594-0940 or purchase online.

When: Friday, December 9, 2011
Where: Southwest Harbor, Maine - Map
More information: Harbor House website, Events page

Santa Claus will be coming to town! A tree lighting, pictures with Santa, a bonfire, tractor rides, refreshments and special business hours help kick off the holidays in Southwest Harbor.

When: Friday, December 9, 2011 - Saturday, December 10, 2011
Where: Southwest Harbor, Maine - Map
More information: Harbor House website, Events page

Browse through the creations of some of Mount Desert Island's finest crafters and begin your Christmas shopping early.

When: Friday, December 9, 2011 - Sunday, December 11, 2011
Where: Rangeley, Maine - Map
More information: Rangeley Lakes Chamber of Commerce website, Calendar of Events page

The Rangeley Mount Holly Days include a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, special discounts at participating merchants, a community Christmas party and more.

When: December 9, 2011 - Sunday, December 11, 2011 (see also Friday, December 3, 2011 - Saturday, December 4, 2011)
Where: Ogunquit, Maine - Map
More information: Ogunquit Maine Chamber of Commerce website, Christmas by the Sea Celebration page

Two wonderful holiday weekends are filled with...

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!

Ogunquit, Maine hotels...

More Activities and Events in Maine, December 2011...

When: Saturday, December 10, 2011
Where: Westbrook, Maine - Map
More information: United Maine Craftsmen website

The Westbrook Middle School will be a perfect place to find local artisan's with made in Maine gifts - just in time for the holiday shopping season.

When: Saturday, December 10, 2011 - Sunday, December 11, 2011
Where: Bath, Maine - Map
More information: Candy Cane Train website

On December 10th and 11th, the 6th Annual Candy Cane Train departs from the Bath, Maine Train Station at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM for a 90 minute round-trip to and from Wiscasset, Maine. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookie, along with a visit from Santa and his Elves.

Visit the Candy Cane Train website for ticket purchase.

When: Sunday, December 11, 2011
Where: Wells, Maine - Map
More information: Southern Maine Parade website

The 27th Wells Christmas parade will take place at 2:00 PM. The parade will begin at the Wells Plaza parking lot and continue north on U.S. Route 1 to the Wells Junior High School. This year's theme - "A Country Christmas".

When: Saturday, December 17, 2011
Where: Rumford, Maine - Map
More information: Bethel, Maine Chamber of Commerce website, Snowmobile Hill Climb page

The Black Mountain Snowmobile Hill Climb on December 17th will be the first hill climb of the season. The lodge will open at 1:00 PM for registration and bib pick up, the event will begin at 3:00 PM. On the schedule also is an evening of free live entertainment and fun.

2011 New Year's Eve Events in Maine

...or New Year's Eve Events in Maine 2012 (depending on how you look at it!). Either way, there will be fun events for New Year's Eve in Maine.

When: Saturday, December 31, 2011
Where: Bangor, Maine - Map
More information: Downtown Bangor website, Downtown Countdown page

A fun family event, the Bangor, Maine New Year's Eve celebration will take place from 7:00 PM to midnight. The event will be held at various venues, with opening and closing ceremonies taking place at West Market Square. Bangor New Year's Eve events will include various entertainment, live outdoor musical performances, and much more.

When: Saturday, December 31, 2011
Where: Belfast, Maine - Map
More information: New Year's by the Bay Belfast website

The 15th annual chem-free New Year's celebration in Belfast, Maine will include a full schedule of family entertainment and great food at nearly a dozen locations citywide, ending with the 8th Annual Bonfire by the Bay, held at midnight at the bottom of Main Street.

When: Saturday, December 31, 2011
Where: Carrabassett Valley, Maine - Map
More information: Sugarloaf Ski Resort website, Events Calendar page

Join magician George Saterial in the King Pine Room as he provides an evening of fun for the entire family. Following the free performance the Bank of Maine will sponsor a spectacular fireworks show.

More New Year's Activities and Events in Maine, December 2011...

When: Saturday, December 31, 2011
Where: Old Orchard Beach, Maine - Map
More information: Old Orchard Beach 365 website, First Night 00B page

Two Old Orchard Beach New Year's Eve fireworks shows will light up the skies. The first show is at 6:15 PM and the second will take place at midnight. Hot cocoa, music and marshmallows will all be part of the OOB First Night Celebration. A free shuttle service to Old Orchard Beach motels will be provided for anyone with an OOB First Night Button.

Maine oceanfront vacations rentals ...

When: Saturday, December 31, 2011
Where: Rumford, Maine - Map
More information: Bethel, Maine Chamber of Commerce website, Event page

Enjoy New Year's Eve with MONSTA at Black Mountain of Maine - an "evening of live entertainment and 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 2012?

...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 2011, 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.

More Activities and Events in Maine, December 2011 coming...