Kennebunkport Prelude: The Most Magical Christmas Celebration in Coastal Maine

Every December, the charming seaside village of Kennebunkport, Maine transforms into a real-life Christmas card - twinkling lights, decorated lobster traps, garlands, wreaths, carolers, bonfires, s’mores, cocoa, and that salty winter Atlantic air that makes everything feel extra cozy.

This iconic celebration is called Kennebunkport Prelude - and if you’ve never experienced it, this is the holiday tradition you need this year.

What Is Kennebunkport Prelude?

Kennebunkport Prelude is a multi-week Christmas festival hosted in the heart of Dock Square and the surrounding coastal streets of Kennebunkport. It’s one of the most beloved December events in New England - and has been ranked among the Top 10 Christmas Town celebrations in America.

You’ll find:

• Thousands of sparkling holiday lights

• The famous Lobster Trap Christmas Tree

• Holiday craft fairs + artisan markets

• Santa arriving by lobster boat (yes - this actually happens!)

• Caroling, parades, and tree lightings

• Hot cocoa, festive cocktails + holiday treats around town

• Christmas shopping in local boutiques + galleries

It’s nostalgic, it’s coastal, it’s cozy - and every corner of town feels like a Hallmark scene.

Where to Stay During Prelude

Book early. Seriously.

Hotels, inns, and Airbnbs fill up fast for Prelude weekends.

Here are some local favorites that put you right in the magic:

The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel - steps from Dock Square, incredible views

Nonantum Resort - family-friendly, decorated beautifully for the holidays

The Kennebunkport Inn - luxury lodging in the heart of Dock Square

Looking for Things to Do During Prelude? The Best Way to Experience it is Via a Walking Tour

The town is gorgeous on your own - but when you take a guided tour, you don’t just see Kennebunkport - you learn its stories. That’s where Outatime Tours comes in.

Our Kennebunkport Prelude Walking Tour gives you:

• the history behind Dock Square and Colonial Kennebunkport

• stories of Kennebunkport's Christmas past and the people who lived them

• the secret photo spots most tourists miss

• insider local stories you won’t find on Google

• the Bush family history + tales of Walker’s Point

• a slower, cozier way to explore the lights, displays, and holiday decorations

It’s small-group, locally owned, and created by guides who genuinely love this town.

If you only schedule ONE paid activity during Prelude - make it this one.

BOOK YOUR PRELUDE TOUR NOW

Other Tips to Make the Most of Your Prelude Weekend

• Book dinner reservations early (seriously - weeks in advance)

• Dress warm and wear comfortable shoes (you’ll walk a lot)

• Stop into the little side-street shops - that’s where you find the best gifts

• Try the holiday cocktail menus - so many restaurants do special seasonal drinks

• Take one evening just to stroll Dock Square after dark — it’s pure magic

Ready to Experience Kennebunkport Prelude?

Come for the lights, the nostalgia, the charming coastal streets — and leave with your new favorite holiday tradition. Book your Outatime Prelude Tour today and see Kennebunkport through a storyteller’s eyes.

→ Limited holiday tour spots available — they WILL sell out.

BOOK YOUR PRELUDE TOUR NOW