3 Drive-Thru Holiday Light Displays in Maine
Maine is a state full of natural beauty and wonder, and during the holiday season it transforms into a real winter wonderland. This year, the holidays are looking very different thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the holiday spirit remains at the following drive-thru holiday light displays.
Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Pre-COVID, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay had hosted a walking tour of sparkling holiday lights through its breathtaking grounds. This year, as in 2020, the Gardens Aglow event has been changed to a drive-thru light display because of COVID-19 restrictions.
The event runs from Nov. 20, 2021, to Jan. 1, 2022. In order to experience the magic, you must purchase a ticket for a specific date and time slot. Arrival times are in 15-minute increments from 4:30-8:30 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays. It’ll cost $30 per car if you’re a member of the gardens, and $40 per car if you’re not.
Pandora’s Winter Lights
During the holiday season, downtown Portland is transformed into a winter wonderland replete with colorful lights and light displays. Take a driving tour using the guide provided by the city and see the lights at Longfellow Square, Congress Street, Lincoln Park, Boothby Square, Pleasant Street Park, and much more.
You also have the option of walking downtown Portland to check out the lights, but make sure you take precautions like social distancing and mask-wearing to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Holiday Trail of Lights
In addition to seeing Christmas lights and donating to charity, you will be entered into a raffle for every vote you make. The winners will receive “staycation” packages for local area attractions.
Catherine Hiles (she/her) is a native Brit living and working in Dayton, Ohio. Cat has written about a variety of subjects, including finance, cars, and parenting. She is a frequent contributor to Dayton Mom Collective, The Penny Hoarder, and WDW Magazine.
Cat lives with her husband, their two kids, and their energetic pitbull mix. She counts running, lifting weights, walking, and reading among her hobbies. See more articles by Cat.