Paint the Town Red: A Guide To Kennebunkport’s Cure for the Winter Blues

If you think the Maine coast is only for summer lobster rolls and beach days, you’re missing out on one of New England’s best-kept secrets.

Every February, the quiet coastal village of Kennebunkport transforms into a romantic, glowing winter wonderland for a month-long celebration known as Paint the Town Red.

Whether you are planning a last-minute Valentine’s getaway or just need a cure for the winter blues, here is everything you need to know about visiting Kennebunkport right now.

What is "Paint the Town Red"?

"Paint the Town Red" is a town-wide campaign that turns Kennebunkport into the ultimate destination for romance and coziness. The entire month of February is dubbed the "Month of Love."

To live up to the name, the town is literally decorated in red. Dock Square and the surrounding streets glow with red twinkle lights, storefronts are adorned with hearts, and the massive "LOVE KPT" sign lights up the riverfront.

A Brief History

 The tradition launched around 2015 to boost tourism during what was historically the sleepiest time of year. Local businesses banded together to reinvent the town as a premier winter destination. It worked. And now, over a decade later, it is one of the most anticipated events on the seacoast.

The 2026 Itinerary: Things To Do In Kennebunkport This February

While the famous "Frosted!" ice bar party kicked things off on January 31st, the celebration is just hitting its stride. Here is what you can still experience during the rest of February 2026:

1. Unique "Snow Globe" Dining

Kennebunkport has mastered the art of outdoor winter dining. If you want a private, romantic experience, you can book a heated structure at several top spots:

• The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel:  Their "Lighthouse Village" features sweet little heated "Lighthouses" for 4, 6 or 8 guests right on the harbor. Reservations can be made at OpenTable. Tip: They run a "$10 Margarita's" special on Tuesdays, "50% off select wine and Oysters" special on Wednesday and "All day happy hour" on Sundays.

  
  

• Batson River Brewing & Distilling: Reserve one of their "Fish Shacks" a cozy, heated hut on the patio perfect for craft cocktails and appetizers. Reservations can be made on Toast.

• Kennebunkport Inn: Often features adorable Gondolas for up to 6 guests on the patio, ideal for sipping cocktails under the red lights. Email gondola@kennebunkportinn.com Or call 1-207-967-3919 to make a reservation. Tip: Thursdays is their "Burger Bash" special, $20 beer and burger. Friday is "Fish Fry All Day", $20 Fish & Chips or $10 Fish Sandwich and a "Sunday Supper", a 3 course comfort-inspired meal, $40.

  
  

2. Kennebunkport Valentine’s & Culinary Events

The town's culinary scene shines brightest mid-month. If you are visiting soon, keep these dates in mind:

Valentine’s Weekend (Feb 12–16):

• Earth at Hidden Pond: Offering a special Prix Fixe menu. Tucked away in the woods, this is arguably the most romantic spot in town. They also have a "Galentine's Sip and Paint Night" on Feb. 12.

• White Barn Inn: Hosting a Valentine's Afternoon Tea and "Valentine's Libations" cocktail class on Feb 14, followed by a formal dinner.

• Ocean at Cape Arundel Inn: Features a 3-course Valentine’s menu ($95/pp) and "Sparkling Pairings" champagne flights all month.

3. Kennebunkport Classes & Activities

If you want to learn something new (or just burn off dinner), the local resorts offer a rotating calendar of events:

• Mixology & Tasting: Look for classes on oyster shucking or wine and chocolate pairings at hotels like The Burleigh or Earth.

• Ice Skating: The Waterhouse Pavilion in downtown Kennebunk offers a covered ice rink that is free to the public (weather permitting).

• Snowshoeing: Head to the trails at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm for a peaceful winter hike.

• Candle-Making: Enjoy a custom scent-blending experience like no other! Luxury Candle making at Sea Love

• Yoga: Grab your life partner, your business partner, your bff or anyone you can fall over and laugh with and a fun partner yoga class. No partner yoga experience needed, come with a good sense of humor and a little love for yourself & whomever you bring!

  
  

4. "Red Tag" Shopping In Kennebunkport

February is the prime time to shop in Dock Square. Retailers are clearing inventory for spring, so look for the literal "Red Tags" in windows to find massive deals on high-end winter gear, home decor, and Maine gifts at shops like Daytrip Society , Minka , Dock Square Emporium or Scalawags.

Where to Stay In Kennebunkport

Hotels get in on the fun with themed packages available all month:

Kennebunkport Resort Collection: Their "Winter Dine and Dream" package waives the resort fee plus you'll get a $50 dining voucher. Their "LOVE KPT" package waives the resort fee, offers 10% off standard room rate and a Bottle of Bubbles, Macarons and luxurious body scrub upon arrival.

Rhumb Line Resort: A great budget-friendly option, their "Paint The Town Red Romance" package includes 2 nights lodging, a bottle of wine from Maine & Vine and a make-your-own candle" package at Sea Love. Bonus; They have an indoor pool and hot tub.

The Grand Hotel: A true boutique hotel steps from Dock Square. Their "Sushi Sip and Stay" package offers a $100 dining voucher at their on-site restaurant Rosella and a bottle of Saki or Orange Wine upon arrival.

Kings Port Inn: An recently renovated, intimate family-owned hotel in the "heart" of town.

Whether you're looking for a romantic outing, some laughs for "Galentine's" or some family-friendly activities to shake off the Winter blues, the quintessential "summer resort" town of Kennebunkport is also a must-do Winter destination. We hope you enjoy and look forward to seeing you for a fun walking tour In Kennebunkport with Outatime Tours in May!