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

Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude

‘Tis the Season

This season, embrace the holiday cheer in Kennebunkport, named the “#2 Christmas Town in America” by HGTV. In December, the town transforms into a festive wonderland of twinkling lights, charming hotel experiences, and joyful events. Snow-covered trails offer a powdery landscape, perfect for a thrilling ski trip or a relaxing sleigh ride. Mark your calendars for December 5–15, 2024, and plan a winter weekend getaway before the nice list fills up.

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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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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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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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?

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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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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Prelude Stay Offers

Prelude Paws

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Prelude Paws Stay Offer - Kennebunkport, Maine - New England
Prelude Stay Offers

Prelude Paws

Jingle your way to Kennebunkport with your pup for our Annual Christmas Prelude's second weekend - December 13 + 14, 2024! Stay at the Yachtsman Hotel & Marina Club, where we’re waiving the pet fee (a $100 savings for your two-night stay!) just in time for the Pooch Parade in town! It's the paw-fect holiday getaway for you and your furry friend to enjoy some festive fun in Kennebunkport!

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This offer includes:

  • Waived Nightly Pet Fee ($100 savings for this two-night stay)
  • Offer available for Friday, December 13 & Saturday, December 14th (must be a two-night stay)
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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Festive Dining for Savor

Via Sophia by the Sea

Indulge in culinary excellence at Via Sophia by the Sea, Kennebunkport's premier Italian spot. Enjoy meticulously crafted dishes made with the freshest ingredients—perfect for Christmas Prelude.

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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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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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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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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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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.

Thursday, December 12 | 5:00 - 9:00pm

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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.

Fridays, December 6th & 13th | 6:30-9:00 pm

Saturdays, December 7th & 14th | 6:30-9:00 pm

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

Sleigh All Day: A Holiday Drag Brunch

Join us at Via Sophia by the Sea for "Sleigh All Day: A Holiday Drag Brunch." Enjoy festive performances by Queens Abby Cummings, Cherry Lemonade, Maxine West, & Raquel Blake, plus live music from Hot Radio Maine's DJ! Expect a magical holiday atmosphere and a surprise present to make your season unforgettable.

Two shows on December 01 | 9:30am & 1:00pm

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Sleigh All Day Drag Brunch Via Sophia Kennebunkport Maine December
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.

Wednesday, December 11 | 4:00 - 7:00pm

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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!

Saturday, December 7 | 2:00 - 3:30pm

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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.

Friday, December 13 | 2:00 - 3:30pm

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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! 

Saturday, December 14 | 2:00 - 3:30pm 

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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.

Thursday, December 5th

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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! 

Saturdays, December 7th & 14th | 12:00-5:00pm

(Dinner to follow from 5:00-9:00pm)

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Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Via Sophia Weekend Brunch

Experience savory brunch at Via Sophia by the Sea each Saturday of Christmas Prelude! Enjoy elevated brunch classics with refreshing Italian cocktails to begin your Prelude morning.

Saturdays, December 7th & 14th; Sundays, December 8th and 15th | 10:00am - 2:00pm

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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

Buddy’s Bar at Rabbit Hole

Step into a magical celebration inspired by the movie, ‘Elf’. The bar transforms into a festive wonderland, complete with Elf-inspired cocktails and decorations, a whimsical photo booth, and Buddy’s “four favorite food groups.”

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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!

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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!

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

FRIDAYS, Dec. 6th and 13th

  • 5-10PM: DJ Chad at The Burleigh (under tent)
  • 9PM-Midnight: DJ B. Aull at the Rabbit Hole

SATURDAYS, Dec. 7th and 14th

  • 12-4PM: Beau Dalleo at The Burleigh (under tent)
  • 5-10PM: DJ Chad at The Burleigh (under tent)
  • 9PM-Midnight: DJ B. Aull at the Rabbit Hole

Tree Spa
Winter Pop-Up

Schedule Relaxation
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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.

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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

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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.

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Christmas Prelude Gallery

Holiday Play

Special Christmas Events

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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