Kennebunkport, Maine, welcomes you into a winter wonderland during its signature holiday celebration. And at Wolf Cove Inn, you’ll enjoy both the thrill of the festivities and activities during your winter escape.
As Kennebunkport, Maine, transforms with festive décor, you’ll feel the joy of the season in every snow-dusted street and welcoming shop. With more than four decades of tradition behind it, Christmas Prelude brings small-town charm, big-time holiday spirit, and a perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway.
Storybook Holiday Moments
One of the heartwarming highlights is the Storybook Christmas at the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust. Guests travel down a snow-lined lane to a lodge. Inside, you’ll find free cocoa from Mornings in Paris and cozy seating for children to sit with Santa while he reads ’Twas the Night Before Christmas. Elves help kids decorate cookies to take home, and there are plenty of photo ops for families.
The fun continues on Friday, December 12, at 6:30pm on Ocean Avenue near Dock Square. A free RideMaine shuttle whisks you to a second Street Festival glowing with luminaries and a firepit outside Coveside Market. There’s live music, s’mores, lobster rolls, chowder, and even a Polar Express-style dining car at Port Fish & Chop House. Elves, holiday shopping, drinks for the grown-ups — all of this adds up to an evening full of Christmas cheer in Kennebunkport.
Tradition with Heart & Community
Christmas Prelude began in 1982 when local merchants in Kennebunkport decided the town deserved a holiday festival. What started as a three-day event has grown into an 11-day celebration that attracts visitors from around the world.
Signature events include multiple tree lightings (including a lobster-trap tree in Cape Porpoise Square), Santa’s arrival by lobster boat, caroling at historic sites, parades, and fireworks. The spirit of community is strong, and fundraising for local nonprofits while supporting small-town businesses is still at the core of the celebration.
Festive Fun for Everyone
Sunday, December 14, offers something extra fun: the 15th Annual Pooch Parade starts at 11am at Consolidated School on School Street. Dogs dressed in their holiday finest march down Maine Street, through Dock Square, and onto Ocean Avenue.
All leashed and all welcome. Later at 2pm, Santa arrives by fire engine at Cape Porpoise Kitchen for hot chocolate, cookies, and photo-ops. It’s family-friendly, heartfelt, and a perfect way to extend the holiday cheer in Kennebunkport.
Experience the Magic and Relax at Wolf Cove Inn
As you explore the festive streets and lively events of Kennebunkport, Maine, return each evening to the calm and comfort of Wolf Cove Inn. This lakeside retreat offers a peaceful contrast to the bright lights and festivities, making it ideal for those seeking to balance activity and relaxation.
Cozy up by the fire, sip a warm drink, and let the day’s excitement settle into quiet contentment. You’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: holiday joy in Kennebunkport, Maine, and serenity at Wolf Cove Inn. Book today!
Photo Credit: © Anh Nguyen from Pexels via canva.com