Wonderful Holiday Destinations in Maine

Maine is a beautiful state to spend Christmas with its scenic drives along the sea to the inland beauty. But Maine couldn't be more beautiful than in the holiday months. Here are just a few places in Maine you don't want to miss during your holiday visit.

Portland Santa Fest in Portland, Maine

Would you and your little ones like a ride on the Polar Express? Join the many visitors that board the Polar Express as it comes to life on the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad and journeys to the "North Pole." All along the train's route are wondrous holiday decorations that light up the night sky. Guests on board meet the conductor, have cookies and hot cocoa, and listen to the magical story that started it all. You can even join in singing Christmas carols. Your little ones will squeal with delight as the train steams into the "North Pole" station. Then they will meet Santa who will give them their own Christmas sleigh bell. Don't forget to wear your pajamas to this memorable holiday tradition.

Another memorable tradition for you and your family is to ride the two foot narrow gauge railroad steam train that travels along the Casco Bay at the east end of the Portland waterfront. Christmas lights adorn the coach cars and there is a beautiful light display on over a mile of track. The railroad museum awaits with Santa who is ready to listen to your child's Christmas list. Wonderful homemade hot apple cider and cookies are available as you and your family enjoys the vintage coaches and train exhibits. Unique train Christmas gifts are available to purchase at the museum store.

Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport, Maine:

Christmas Prelude is the place to be for the holiday spirit. This events starts with a unique arts and crafts show, a Christmas tree lighting at the Dock Square, a fish chowder dinner, and the lobster trap tree lighting in Cape Porpoise. Visitors can enjoy historic walking tours, a holiday parade, music, caroling, trolley rides, children's movie night, and open houses at the historic inns. You'll find holiday shopping daily and many free samples of your winter favorites in many of the historic inns. Take a ride on the trolley, an historic electric, warm, streetcar that runs through the Maine woods. Enjoy a special holiday brunch hosted by Santa himself, with traditional hot and cold foods and gourmet treats. If you're looking for a historical Christmas, this is the place to be.

Country Christmas in Bethel, Maine:

Get into the country Christmas atmosphere and enjoy horse drawn wagon rides, shopping, open houses, and entertainment, as well as a Living Nativity scene that is sure to leave you awestruck. How about troll trolling? This is a fun-filled cross country skiing event where skiers search for 'trolls', handmade wooden figures that are placed throughout the skiing trails. There are troll maps available at the ski shop and the troll locations change weekly. What a fun way to ski cross-country with your family.

A Winter Frolic in Portland, Maine:

The Tate House is a wonderful place to visit during the holidays. Captain Tate moved from London with his family in the 1700's where he served the British Royal Navy. The mast industry was very important to ensuring England's power on the seas and Tate was an important part of that. His home reflected his status and wealth. You can tour the Tate House to learn more of the mast trade and the family's way of life in the eighteenth century including the years leading up to the Revolutionary War. For this Christmas you can experience period dance lessons, historic winter fun, and genuine holiday treats that fill the extraordinary holiday decorated home of the Tates. This is a must if you are in the area during the regular seasons as well as the holiday seasons.

Christmas by the Sea in Ogunquit, Maine:

Christmas by the Sea is an annual event in Ogunquit that includes, beach bonfires, a chocolate and chowder feast, caroling, entertainment, tree lights, and shopping. And don't forget about jolly St. Nick. There are bed and breakfasts and inns, cottages, and resorts for all ages to enjoy. You will find many playhouses as well as an assortment of boutiques, gifts shops, and galleries. Stop by the day spa or enjoy food of every delectable kind in all of the nearby restaurants. Ogunquit's front yard is the ocean, with deep sea fishing available along with learning how to trap lobster by a licensed captain. Enjoy ice skating and the overall festivities throughout the holiday season. How about a bonfire along with carolers? If you would like to experience Christmas by the sea Ogunquit is the place to go.

Resources: Portland Santa Fest: http://www.mngrr.org/

Christmas Prelude: http://www.christmasprelude.com/

Country Christmas: http://www.bethelmaine.com/

A Winter Frolic: www.tatehouse.org

Christmas by the Sea: www.ogunquit.org