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Christmas is a magical time to visit Maine’s best Christmas town!

Sure, there are plenty of charming New England villages with holiday spirit. But Boothbay Harbor has its own unique kind of cheer, and I absolutely love it.

Here’s everything you need to know about celebrating Christmas in Boothbay Harbor, Maine.

Best Christmas Events in Boothbay Harbor

Here are some of my favorite Christmas activities in Boothbay Harbor.

1. Visit The Lobster Buoy Tree

The biggest holiday attraction in Boothbay is the famous Lobster Buoy Tree, and it’s easy to see why.

Boothbay is a coastal town known for lobster, so it’s only fitting they’d deck the halls—literally—with buoys.

Many towns in Maine celebrate the season by building Christmas trees out of lobster buoys or traps.

In Boothbay, local artisans and volunteers crafted a 20-foot wooden structure weighing 3,000 pounds, decorated with 800 lobster buoys and 1,000 lights.

Topped with a giant metal lobster, of course.

This amazing creation wouldn’t have happened without the community’s help.

Over 20 local businesses and residents contributed money and elbow grease to bring it to life, sourcing the buoys from Mainely Buoys.

You’ll find the tree at Pier One, right next to the water.

2. Admire Boothbay Lights

In addition to the large and beautiful Buoy Christmas Tree, the town hosts Boothbay Lights, a celebration of holiday events in Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor!

During this festive season, the town is filled with Christmas cheer, sparkling with thousands of lights.

Stores and restaurants are beautifully decorated, crafting a Christmas experience you’ll never forget.

You can check out the full schedule on their website.

3. Watch the Lighted Boat Parade

I was lucky enough to catch the Lighted Boat Parade, where locals and visitors deck out their lobster boats in colorful lights and decorations.

The boats made two loops around the harbor, each one more festive than the last—some featured Santa, others blasted Christmas music.

Everyone gathered along the pier to cheer them on, and at the end, the judges announced the winners.

Then came the grand finale: fireworks over the harbor. It was unforgettable.

4. Walk Through Garden’s Aglow

No visit to Boothbay during the holidays is complete without experiencing Gardens Aglow at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

This jaw-dropping display features over 750,000 LED lights spread across 14 acres of beautifully designed walking trails.

It’s been named one of the best Christmas light shows in the world—and it’s easy to see why.

You’ll wander through glowing tunnels, enchanted forests, and dazzling displays.

We were lucky to grab tickets before they sold out, and I’m heading there this weekend!

I am heading there this weekend, as we were lucky enough to grab reservations before they sold out.

5. Get Festive Cocktails at NEAT

If you’re looking to warm up with a holiday drink, NEAT is the place to be.

This hidden cocktail bar in downtown Boothbay Harbor offers a creative seasonal menu with festive twists on your favorite drinks.

During the Christmas season, you’ll find craft cocktails infused with holiday flavors—think cinnamon and rosemary.

The bartenders at Neat are known for their attention to detail, and each drink feels like a mini celebration.

Whether you’re craving a spicy hot toddy or a sparkling winter spritz, don’t miss this holiday stop while enjoying the best Christmas events in Boothbay Harbor.

Want to know more about NEAT? Read This: Boothbay Speakeasy Has The Best Cocktails In Maine

Is Boothbay Harbor on Your Christmas List?

If it’s not already, it should be. From lobster-themed cheer to one of the most magical gardens you’ll ever walk through, Boothbay Harbor truly earns its title as Maine’s Best Christmas Town.

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I also recommend visiting This Boothbay Speakeasy Has The Best Cocktails In Maine.

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Make sure to read my A Local’s Guide to the Best Lobster Rolls in Maine 2025!