Celebrate the Winter Holidays by the Seaside in Ogunquit, Maine

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Friends at a Christmas market

 

Highlights of Christmas by the Sea



Some highlights of the beloved Christmas by the Sea include the Ogunquit Christmas Parade, the beach bonfire, and the arts and crafts fair. The afternoon parade features local bands and a series of festive floats. The beach bonfire takes place, as the name tells, on the beach, and serves as the perfect place to watch fireworks and their reflection on the ocean. The arts and crafts fair takes place in two locations, the town fire station and the Ogunquit Baptist Church. You can search through the works of local artists and find sweet and meaningful gifts for those you love.

You can also watch the town be adorned in Christmas lights. Visit the town footbridge and watch it light up with lights, or venture into town for one of the tree lighting ceremonies. If you enjoy live music, musicals, and plays, then you’re in luck. You can choose between a musical and a play in the evenings, this year (2023) it’s “The Sound of Music” and “Dinner with Dickens at Clay Hill Farm,” as well as a couple of concerts.

Where to stay

Christmas tree ornament

Your holiday spirit doesn’t have to dwindle when the day is done and you return to your hotel. It can continue with a lobby full of decorations and smiling faces. The Gorges Grant Hotel is a great place to stay during Christmas by the Sea. One nice perk about this hotel are the heated pools available for guests. The Meadowmere Resort is another option and has a 4.3 out of 5 rating on Google. It has a spa that’s known for its massages — so after a day outside, you can spend some time unwinding in the most luxurious of ways. The Anchorage by the Sea is another great option that has gorgeous ocean views and a 4.5 rating out of 5 on TripAdvisor.



As the holidays roll in and you’re thinking about where to spend them, consider the magical Christmas town of Ogunquit, Maine, to truly indulge in the holiday spirit. Bring your family, go as a couple, or even venture out on your own. The cheerful town is a splendid place to be over the holidays, so check out Christmas by the Sea for yourself and make some memories.

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.