Rockland is one of Maine’s most creative and vibrant coastal towns, known for its working waterfront, fresh, world-class lobster, vibrant art scene, and festive spirit. Each winter, the town shines brightest during the Rockland Festival of Lights, when downtown transforms into a sparkling holiday destination. At the heart of the celebration is the lobster trap tree, a towering holiday symbol built from the very gear that defines Rockland’s lobstering heritage. Visitors from near and far come to see the lights, take in the cheerful atmosphere, and experience a holiday event you simply won’t find anywhere else.
Beyond the Festival of Lights & the signature Lobster Trap Christmas Tree, Rockland and the Midcoast are filled with holiday cheer and seasonal fun. You can enjoy a performance of the Nutcracker Suite, explore charming nearby towns like Camden or Thomaston for their own Christmas traditions, or make your way to Boothbay for the dazzling Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Whether you love holiday shopping, eating at the best restaurants in Rockland, Maine, light displays, or cozy evenings with cocoa in hand, this region comes alive in winter with unique experiences and warm traditions.
Enjoy one of the best weekend getaways in Maine with a stay at our Rockland Maine Bed and Breakfast. Our romantic 1898 Victorian mansion offers twelve uniquely decorated guest rooms with private baths, fireplaces in every room, luxurious linens and bedding, daily housekeeping, turn-down service, and attentive concierge support. We take care of you in every way! Each morning begins with a delicious breakfast, and each evening ends sweetly with homemade pie. It’s the perfect setting for couples looking to enjoy the holiday season in comfort and style. Check out our winter special and book your room today!
See the Rockland Lobster Trap Tree
The Rockland Festival of Lights is a highlight of the Midcoast holiday calendar, filling the town with seasonal activities, twinkling decorations, and plenty of cheer. This year’s festival kicks off on Friday, November 28, and includes Santa’s arrival by Coast Guard boat, a lively Parade of Lights down Main Street, a bustling craft fair, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a community-wide celebration full of hot chocolate and holiday songs that lasts through Sunday, November 30.
At the heart of the event is the lobster trap tree, Rockland’s most beloved holiday tradition. Built from more than 150 lobster traps stacked high and decorated with thousands of lights, colorful buoys, and garland, the lobster trap Christmas tree is a true symbol of the town’s connection to the sea. Volunteers and community groups come together each year to assemble this remarkable display, honoring Rockland’s fishermen while creating something magical for the season.
The lobster trap tree has become an icon of Rockland’s identity and a beloved gathering point for locals and visitors. Families return year after year to see how it’s decorated, capturing photos against the sparkling lights, while couples enjoy the glow of the harbor as the tree shines over the waterfront. The lighting of the lobster trap tree on Friday evening at 6 pm draws crowds who gather to watch the harbor glow.
Its blend of tradition, community spirit, and maritime culture makes the lobster trap tree an experience that embodies the heart of the Rockland Festival of Lights and sets the perfect tone for the holiday season in Midcoast Maine. While seeing the lobster trap tree and experiencing Rockland’s Festival of Lights are holiday treasures, there are still many other things to do in Maine for couples this winter season – and at the heart of it all is a stay at one of the most luxurious Rockland, Maine Bed and Breakfasts!
Gardens Aglow and Other Holiday Activities Near Rockland
The Rockland Festival of Lights and the historic Lobster Trap tree are just the beginning of things to do in Midcoast Maine this holiday season. Just a short drive from Rockland, you’ll find Boothbay’s Coastal Maine Botanical Garden’s Gardens Aglow. This light display is the largest holiday light display in New England. More than 750,000 LED lights illuminate 14 acres, transforming the gardens into a glowing wonderland of tunnels of light, illuminated trees, shimmering sculptures, and color-changing displays. Highlights include the glowing moose, the famous Guardians of the Seeds trolls, and new 2025 features designed around the theme Nature in Motion, which bring Maine’s flora and fauna to life with imaginative artistry.
Gardens Aglow runs from November 15th through January 3rd, Thursday through Sunday evenings, with timed entry from 4:00 to 7:30 p.m. The mile-long walking trail takes about 1–2 hours, with free parking, shuttles from Boothbay Harbor, and plenty of festive snacks and hot drinks available on site. With photo-worthy views around every corner, Gardens Aglow is a magical evening out for couples, families, and anyone who loves the holiday season.
More Holiday Activities Near Rockland
- Just up the road, Camden celebrates with a weekend of holiday fun with Christmas By the Sea. Though they don’t have a lobster trap tree, you can expect caroling, a tree lighting, Santa’s arrival by boat, and plenty of shopping in the town’s charming downtown. This year’s events take place from December 5th through December 7th.
- In nearby Boothbay, you’ll find more than just Gardens Aglow. Climb aboard the Polar Express at Railway Village Museum for a nostalgic train ride complete with hot cocoa, holiday treats, and a visit from Santa. It’s a family favorite.
- You can also enjoy the Boothbay Harbor Lighted Boat Parade and other holiday events. Watch local captains decorate their boats with dazzling lights and cruise through the harbor. You might even see Santa and Mrs. Claus riding along.
- The holiday season couldn’t be complete without enjoying The Nutcracker, one of our favorite things to do in Rockland in the holiday season. It is presented by the Camden Ballet Theater and hosted by the Strom Auditorium in Rockland. Enjoy the show!
- Check out the Festival of Trees just down the road in Thomaston. Dozens of decorated trees fill the historic Knox Museum, each with its own theme and flair. Guests can stroll, admire, and even bid on trees to take home. There will be more details to come closer to the season.
- After visiting the delightful lobster trap tree and taking in the glow of the Rockland Festival of Lights, don’t miss the chance to do a little holiday shopping in downtown Rockland. Rockland’s Main Street shops offer unique gifts, art, and Maine-made treasures. During the Festival of Lights, storefronts are decorated and open late for holiday cheer.
From parades and performances to brilliant light displays, the Midcoast region offers a full calendar of holiday activities. Make your holiday season extra special with a stay at our Rockland Maine Bed and Breakfast, your perfect home base for enjoying the Festival of Lights, Gardens Aglow, and all the festive charm of coastal Maine. Book your holiday getaway today!