'Tis the Season! 7 Maine Traditions to Kindle the Holiday Spirit
The days may be colder and the nights may be longer, but this is one of the brightest times of the year in Maine. We're experienced in combating a 4:00PM sunset, dropping temperatures, and impending snowstorms with a vast array of winter and holiday activities to keep our spirits on the rise. If you'd like to add some new traditions to your list this year, we've put together a few ideas for you to celebrate the chilly weather and the holiday season.
1. Go Sledding or Snow-tubing
Sledding and snow-tubing are fantastic ways to get some fresh air in the wintertime and enjoy something that many of us curse more often than not-- the snow. Plus, the whole family can go!
Source: MaineToday - Tubing Parks in Maine
2. Visit a Maine Craft Fair
This time of year is filled with weekend craft fairs as vendors set up their handmade wares just in time for the gift-giving rush. Check out this directory of fairs & festivals to find the closest one near you, or if you're up for a road trip, just pick the one that looks the best!
3. Pick up Goodies from Top-Notch Bakery
A family-owned business since 1995, Standard Baking Co. offers artisanal baked goods made from 100% Maine-grown grains. Stop into their shop on Commercial Street in Portland to grab some loaves for your holiday dinners, and maybe some warm pastries for the road.
Photo Source: Lauren Loves to Eat
Bakery Website: http://standardbakingco.com/
4. Go Ice Skating
If you like to skate, Maine has a TON of skating rinks, both indoor and outdoor, depending on your preference. If you're skating outdoors, just be sure to call ahead to make sure the conditions are suitable for being on ice! Check out this list to scope out all the locations: Maine Indoor and Outdoor Skating Rinks.
Source: Maine Vacations
5. Pick out a Tree at a Local Tree Farm
Searching for a Maine-grown Christmas tree? Most tree farms open up the weekend after Thanksgiving, and stay open until Christmas Eve. Some offer additional activities like sleigh rides and visits from Santa-- and some even let you cut down the tree of your choosing. To find a place near you, visit Pick Your Own Christmas Tree.
Source: MaineToday
6. Knit (By the Fire, if You Can.)
Nothing screams "KNITTING!" like a winter evening when snuggling up on the couch is the only comfortable option. Mother of Purl Yarn in Freeport Maine has a "Knit Down to Christmas," where you can knit a new Christmas item each week leading up to the big day. They'll deliver free patterns to your email inbox. They also have Holiday Knitting Classes, if you need a little extra help getting started. We love to support our local yarn stores.
Source: Mother of Purl Yarn
7. Take a Tour at the Maine Heritage Weavers Factory
We love visitors and are happy to give tours of our production floor. If you need to get out of the cold and are interested in Maine weaving and textiles, drop on in during our hours of operation.
What are your favorite Maine holiday traditions? Please share them with us in the comments below!