Christmas Prelude
a large tree with lights on it - Christmas Prelude Kennebunkport Maine

Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude

‘Tis the Season

Experience the magic of Kennebunkport every December as it transforms into HGTV’s “#2 Christmas Town in America,” a coastal wonderland of festive lights, joyful events, and winter adventures. Mark your calendars for December 2025, and plan a winter weekend getaway before the nice list fills up.

Best places to stay for Christmas Prelude?

Cape Arundel Inn & Resort

Indulge in the tranquil sophistication of Cape Arundel Inn & Resort, Kennebunkport's captivating jewel. Experience luxury amidst Maine's relaxed allure, featuring upscale accommodations, gourmet dining, and breathtaking ocean vistas—a perfect escape during Christmas Prelude.

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Best places to stay for Christmas Prelude?

Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel, perched atop Chase Hill, offers stylish seclusion near Kennebunkport's vibrant heart. Just minutes from Gooch’s Beach and Dock Square, this boutique retreat blends New England architecture, plush accommodations, and impeccable service—an ideal Christmas Prelude getaway.

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a building with lights on it
Best places to stay for Christmas Prelude?

Goose Rocks Beach House

Goose Rocks Beach House offers coastal luxury steps from the sand. Three private residences blend historic charm with upscale comforts and Jonathan Adler décor, perfect for a spacious Christmas Prelude retreat in Kennebunkport.

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a living room with a fireplace and chairs
Best places to stay for Christmas Prelude?

The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel

Nestled in one of Kennebunkport’s most picturesque locales, this hotel stands as a premier waterside retreat where opulence meets the charm of harbor life. Just steps from Dock Square, our luxurious rooms boast panoramic harbor views, promising a serene and rejuvenating Maine getaway.

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a bedroom with a large bed and glass doors
Best places to stay for Christmas Prelude?

Kennebunkport Inn

Explore the elegance of this historic inn overlooking Kennebunkport’s Village Center. Once a tea merchant’s mansion, our blend of timeless architecture and modern luxury offers a serene retreat after exploring Dock Square’s bustling shops and eateries—a perfect Christmas Prelude getaway.

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a house with christmas lights
Best places to stay for Christmas Prelude?

Yachtsman Hotel & Marina Club

Experience a nautical escape at Yachtsman Hotel & Marina Club, a coastal sanctuary near Dock Square. Enjoy private patios with panoramic river views, cocktails at our Marina Bar, and complimentary bikes—a perfect Christmas Prelude stay in Kennebunkport.

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a room with a fireplace and a blue dresser
Festive Dining for Savor

Ocean Restaurant

Enjoy elevated dinner fare with stunning coastal views at Ocean. This luxurious dining spot is perfect for savoring Kennebunkport's finest flavors during Christmas Prelude.

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a table with plates of food and a drink on it
Festive Dining for Savor

The Burleigh

The Burleigh offers tavern-style dining with local seafood, hearty burgers, creative cocktails, and pub fare, including gluten-free and vegan options—ideal for Christmas Prelude.

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a bar with christmas lights and decorations
Festive Dining for Savor

Earth at Hidden Pond

Savor farm-to-fork dishes at Earth at Hidden Pond, an award-winning restaurant in a natural setting. Enjoy an extraordinary menu perfect for celebrating Christmas Prelude in style.

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a room with tables and chairs and a fireplace
Festive Dining for Savor

Rosella Sushi

Rosella at The Grand Hotel in Kennebunk offers intimate dining with ethically sourced sushi—a perfect choice for Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport.

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a table with different foods on it
Festive Dining for Savor

The Boathouse Waterfront Restaurant

The Boathouse Restaurant in Kennebunkport blends craft cocktails with fresh Maine flavors on the Kennebunk River—perfect for Christmas Prelude.

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Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Rosella Lunch

Join Rosella for its freshly made and sustainably sourced sushi for lunch hours each Saturday of Prelude! 

a close up of food
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

A Murder Mystery Dinner & Stay Package

Dress in your finest silk for the Billionaires’ Club Masquerade Ball, a thrilling murder mystery dinner at Ocean. Join an interactive, suspenseful storyline with other guests to unmask the killer and enjoy an exciting night filled with intrigue and holiday spirit.

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a white mask with gold trim and red balls
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Live Guitar Music at Ocean Restaurant

Enjoy live guitar music with Michael Scharff at Ocean Restaurant on December 6th and 7th from 6 to 8:30 pm during the first weekend of Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude! Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with some of the best entertainment New England has to offer.

Live Guitar music at Ocean Restaurant - Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Elevated Comfort Food Dinner at Ocean

Embark on a nostalgic culinary journey with a four-course dinner of elevated comfort foods and reimagined childhood classics. Enjoy a sophisticated blend of nostalgia and innovation for a truly delightful evening.

Comfort Food Dinner - Ocean Restaurant - Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Cozy Cocoa Nights at Earth Restaurant

Warm up with hot cocoa and bar bites at Earth's Farm Bar in Kennebunkport this Christmas Prelude. Join us Fridays and Saturdays, 6:30-9:00 PM.

Cocoa Nights - Earth at Hidden Pond - Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Festive Glow: Holiday Spa Night

Prepare to sparkle and shine this holiday season before time gets too busy! Join us for a day of indulgence, relaxation, and radiant skin care amidst the enchantment of Christmas as the ultimate way to pamper yourself. Treat your skin to expert care, relax with mini spa treatments, learn valuable skincare tips, and indulge in the festive atmosphere.

a group of women lying on the ground
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Mixology at Earth

Learn to make classic Earth cocktails with their team of skilled bartenders and enjoy 3 tastings. Infuse liquors with our garden's farm fresh ingredients and dehydrate fruit wheels for garnish. Earth at Hidden Pond’s cocktails are some of the best around!

a pair of hands holding drinks
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

South African Wine Tasting at Earth

Join us at Earth at Hidden Pond as we celebrate Christmas Prelude where you'll experience the warm and savory flavors of South African Wines. Enjoy canapes and sip on the sweet tastes of the chilly season.

a dog looking at food on a table
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Winter Mixology at Earth

Join Earth at Hidden Pond for a festive evening of learning how to prepare Earth's iconic seasonal cocktails! Try 3 of the holiday beverages you create with infused liquors and dehydrated fruit wheels that make it extra cozy! 

a glass of liquid with a marshmallow on top
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Live Guitar Music at Earth Restaurant

Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of live guitar music at Earth at Hidden Pond this Christmas Prelude season in Kennebunkport. On December 6 and 7, Adam Scharff brings his talent to the stage, setting the perfect festive mood from 6pm to 8:30pm. Return on December 13 and 14 to experience the renowned Michael Scharff, captivating guests with his signature guitar magic.

Live Guitar music at Earth Restaurant - Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine

Book our stay package to be part of the experience! Purchase will include:

  • 15% discount on a one night stay Thursday, December 5th
  • Three-course dinner for two at Ocean
  • Interactive Mystery Show with actors with light costuming
Fun Happenings for Christmas Prelude

Kennebunkport Inn's Prelude Tent

Visit the lively tent on Kennebunkport Inn's front patio this Prelude! Enjoy an outdoor bar for drinks with friends while listening to live music or DJ under the tent. Click the button below for our live entertainment schedule.

Kennebunkport, Maine - Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport Inn Tent - party
Fun Happenings for Christmas Prelude

Tinsel Bar at the Burleigh

For a magical holiday encounter, celebrate at The Burleigh, where festive decorations and live music ignite Christmas cheer. Stop by for seasonal cocktails, savory bites, and a holly jolly time!

a bar with christmas lights and decorations
Fun Happenings for Christmas Prelude

Live Entertainment

During Kennebunk’s iconic Christmas Prelude, let every Friday and Saturday night be an unforgettable celebration, brimming with festive cheer and lively gatherings. Join us for the best parties in town—where holiday magic and merriment come together!

Fun Happenings at Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England

Tree Spa
Winter Pop-Up

Schedule Relaxation
a candle on a plate with flowers and a match on it

Tree Spa
Winter Pop-Up

Cape Arundel Clubhouse

Opening Thursday, November 14th, 2024

Entering its fourth season, the esteemed Tree Spa at Hidden Pond unveils a Winter Pop-Up at Cape Arundel Inn & Resort, offering unparalleled relaxation. Experience a selection of luxurious massages and rejuvenating treatments, each designed to soothe the mind, body, and soul. Indulge in the Tree Spa's signature blend of aromatic oils and lotions, enhancing every spa experience.

Schedule Relaxation

Worthy Wednesday at The Burleigh

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Worthy Wednesday - Kennebunk Free Library - The Burleigh - Kennebunkport Inn

Worthy Wednesday at The Burleigh

The Burleigh is excited to have the Worthy Wednesday for this December 11th, 2024! This winter, savor tasty bites and inventive cocktails in our cozy gastropub while supporting the Kennebunk Free Library.

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Toys for Tots

Donate Now
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Toys for Tots

Each year to ensure children in need experience the joy of the Christmas season, the Kennebunkport Resort Collection holds fundraisers that collect toys from locals and guests to donate them to the charitable organization Toys for Tots. Donation boxes can be found at the Kennebunkport Inn, as well as The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel.

Donate Now

Christmas Prelude Gallery

people walking on the street by a Christmas tree
Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England
Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England
Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England
Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England
Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England
Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England
Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England
Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England
Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England
Holiday Play

Special Christmas Events

View Christmas Schedule
a person holding a gold ornament on a tree
Holiday Play

Special Christmas Events

Fully embrace the Christmas spirit this season and join in on some jolly events sure to create magical memories for you and your loved ones. Experience the enchantment with tree lightings across Kennebunkport, the whimsical Annual Hat Parade, serene Candlelight Caroling at the Franciscan Monastery, and so much more!

View Christmas Schedule