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

Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude

‘Tis the Season

Every December, Kennebunkport transforms into a coastal holiday wonderland, earning its title as HGTV’s #2 Christmas Town in America. Twinkling lights, joyful celebrations, and unforgettable winter adventures await around every corner. Don’t miss the 45th Annual Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude, happening December 3rd–13th, 2026. Mark your calendars now and plan the perfect 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—the perfect quiet escape during Christmas Prelude. We will also be offering a shuttle service each Friday & Saturday of 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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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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Exterior of The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel during Christmas time
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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Exterior of Kennebunkport Inn with Christmas decor
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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Exterior of Yachtsman Hotel & Marina Club during Christmas time
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 - December 3rd through the 13th. For these days only, we're waiving the pet fee (a $50 savings per night of your stay!), the paw-fect holiday getaway for you and your furry friend to enjoy some festive fun in Kennebunkport, complete with the Pooch Parade on Sunday the 13th!

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Offer Includes:

  • Waived Nightly Pet Fee ($50 savings per night of your stay)
  • Valid for all Prelude Stay Dates
  • Based on availability
Festive Dining toSavor

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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Glass of wine during Christmas time at Ocean at Cape Arundel Inn & Resort in Kennebunkport, Maine
Festive Dining toSavor

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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Tinsel Bar at The Burleigh
Festive Dining toSavor

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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Earth at Hidden Pond with Christmas decor
Festive Dining toSavor

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 toSavor

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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Christmas cocktail and oysters at The Boathouse Waterfront Restaurant In Kennebunkport, Maine
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Winter Whites Wine Tasting

Friday, December 4th | 2:00-3:30PM

Celebrate the holiday season with a cozy and elegant evening at Earth at Hidden Pond. Gather with us to enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of winter, featuring thoughtfully crafted canapés paired with a curated selection of complex, full-bodied white wines that beautifully complement the season's heartiest dishes.

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Winter Whites Wine Tasting at Earth at Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport Maine
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Sip into the Season Mixology at Earth

Saturday, December 5th | 2:00-3:30PM

Join us for a festive evening and learn how to prepare seasonal cocktails with our team of skilled bartenders. From infusing liquors with farm fresh ingredients from our gardens to dehydrating fruit wheels for garnish to making delicious shrubs, Earth at Hidden Pond’s cocktails are some of the best around! 

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Holly Jolly Mixology Class at Earth at Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport, Maine
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Winter Wine Tasting at Ocean

Saturday, December 5th | 2:00-3:00PM

Celebrate the season with an elegant evening of wine and culinary discovery at Ocean Restaurant. Set in our beautiful oceanfront setting, this festive experience invites guests to enjoy thoughtfully crafted seasonal canapés paired with three exceptional wines—one sparkling, one white, and one red.

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Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Shaken, Stirred, & Santa Approved Mixology at Earth

Saturday, December 12th | 2:00-3:30PM

Join us for a festive evening and learn how to prepare seasonal cocktails with our team of skilled bartenders. From infusing liquors with farm fresh ingredients from our gardens to dehydrating fruit wheels for garnish to making delicious shrubs, Earth at Hidden Pond’s cocktails are some of the best around! 

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Garnish & Garland Mixology Class at Earth at Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport, Maine
Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Winter Warmth Mixology at Ocean

Saturday, December 12th | 2:00-3:00PM

Warm up by the coast with an evening dedicated to the season's most beloved hot cocktails. Join us in our inviting oceanfront setting as we explore three timeless winter favorites: Hot Buttered Rum, a festive Hot Toddy, and a classic Irish Coffee.

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Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Rosella Lunch

Saturday, December 5th and 12th | 12:00-9:00PM

Enjoy a front row seat to all the Saturday afternoon Christmas Prelude festivities with lunch at Rosella KPT in Kennebunk, beginning at 12pm! Enjoy the best sushi in town with outstanding service and a unique ambiance. Experience the flavor and atmosphere that only Rosella can bring to an unforgettable meal.

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Memorable Events for Christmas Prelude

Festive Glow: Holiday Spa Night

Wednesday, December 9th | 4:00-7:00PM

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.

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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. 

  • Friday, December 5th: 5-10pm
  • Saturday, December 6th: 12-4pm and 5-10pm
  • Friday, December 12th: 5-10pm
  • Saturday, December 13th: 12-4pm and 5-10pm
Kennebunkport, Maine - Christmas Prelude - Kennebunkport Inn Tent - party
Fun Happenings for Christmas Prelude

Tinsel Bar at the Burleigh

Opening Wednesday, November 18th

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

Ride Maine

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Ride Maine

Ride Maine

The shuttle with service the following hotels & resorts: Cape Arundel Inn & Resort, Kennebunkport Inn, The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel, Grand Hotel, and Yachtsman Hotel & Marina Club.

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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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Holiday Play

Special Christmas Events

View Christmas Schedule
Christmas tree Kennebunkport, Maine - Christmas Prelude
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!

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Christmas Prelude Gallery