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Winter in Maine can feel long if you don’t give yourself a reason to get out at night. One of my favorite ways to do that – especially around the holidays – is chasing Christmas lights. It’s simple, it’s cozy, and it gives you something to look forward to when it’s dark by 4 p.m. If you’re looking for ideas, here are four Christmas light experiences around Maine that are all very different, depending on whether you want to stay in your car, get out and walk, or make a whole evening of it.
Maine Celebration of Lights – Cumberland
This is the one for nights when you want to go out… but not really go out. The Maine Celebration of Lights is a drive-through display at the Cumberland County Fairgrounds. You stay in your car the whole time and drive through a mile or so of lights, animated scenes, and tunnels of color. Tickets are per vehicle, which makes it an easy choice for families or anyone who just wants to stay warm and cozy. There’s no food sold onsite, so I recommend grabbing dinner beforehand or bringing snacks for the car. Honestly, this is a great “pajamas and hot cocoa” kind of night. Low effort, still festive. 🔗 https://www.fiestashows.com/fs/maine-celebration-of-lights/
Gardens Aglow – Boothbay
I’ve been to Gardens Aglow, and it’s one of those experiences that really sticks with you. If you’ve ever visited the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens during the day, you already know how beautiful it is – but seeing it lit up at night is something else entirely. It’s a walking experience, so you do want to dress warmly, but it’s completely worth it. What I love about this one is how thoughtfully it’s done. The lights aren’t just everywhere for the sake of it – they follow the landscape, the trees, the paths. You’re walking through glowing gardens, not a light show slapped on top of them. There’s hot cocoa, warm comfort food, and even beer and wine available, which makes it easy to turn this into a relaxed evening instead of a rushed stop. 🔗 https://www.mainegardens.org/events-exhibits/gardens-aglow/
Norton Lights – Wells
Norton Lights feels like classic Maine in the best way. This is a free, family-run light display in Wells that’s been around for years. You can drive by or get out and walk a bit, and the lights are synchronized to music that you tune into on your car radio. It’s not flashy or commercial – it’s heartfelt, and that’s why people love it. They accept donations for Make-A-Wish Maine, which makes stopping by feel even better. There’s no food or event staff here, so it’s more of a short visit – but it’s absolutely worth the detour if you’re nearby. 🔗 https://www.nortonlights.org/#shows
L.L.Bean Northern Lights – Freeport
If you want something that feels festive without having to plan much, this is an easy one. L.L.Bean’s Northern Lights in Freeport is a walk-around experience with lights, music, and special events throughout the season. It’s free, it’s lively, and it pairs really well with shopping, dinner, or just wandering around downtown Freeport for a bit. Some nights include food trucks, hot cocoa, or live music, and it’s very family-friendly. Just dress warm – you’ll be outside – and expect a bit of a crowd closer to Christmas. 🔗 https://www.visitfreeport.com/events/l-l-bean-northern-lights/
A Quick Word of Advice
If it’s a walking event, dress warmer than you think you need to.
If it’s a driving event, bring snacks.
And if it’s something you really want to see, go on a weeknight – it’s usually calmer and more enjoyable.
Now I’m Curious…
Do you have a favorite place in Maine to see Christmas lights? Or is there one you go to every year no matter what? I’d love to hear – drop it in the comments and let me know.
