Join The Holiday Cheer At Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude

Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport is back, and even though it started on December 4, there is still plenty of time to enjoy it before it ends on December 14.

For 44 years, this small Maine town has become a real-life holiday movie, which is why HGTV once named it the number two Christmas town in America, and Country Living called it one of the top Christmas family vacation spots in the world.

During Christmas Prelude, the whole town lights up with bright decorations, fresh greenery, and a big sparkling tree in the center of Dock Square. The air smells like pine, and the streets feel warm and festive even on the coldest days. It is the kind of place where you can take a slow walk, sip something warm, and feel like you stepped into a simple holiday story.

There are plenty of events to enjoy. One of the most popular moments is when Santa arrives by lobster boat instead of a sleigh. Crowds gather along the harbor to wave and cheer as he comes in over the water. There are tree lighting ceremonies, carolers at the Franciscan Monastery, a fun street festival, and a beautiful fireworks show that lights up the night sky.