As the holiday season ramps up, finding a peaceful escape becomes more important than ever. Rockland, Maine, offers a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle, especially in November and December, when the crowds are thinner, and the charm of this coastal town truly shines. If you want to add a little nostalgic magic to your getaway, time your visit to late November for the Rockland Festival of Lights – or perhaps Boothbay’s Gardens Aglow in November and December.
Like any great getaway destination, a trip to MidCoast Maine provides a calming counterbalance to the season’s chaos. One of the highlights of any holiday-season getaway here is the Rockland Festival of Lights. This charming festival transforms the town into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, festive parades, and unique local shopping experiences. It’s an ideal opportunity to enjoy the festive spirit without the overwhelming crowds, making it one of the top things to do in Rockland during the holiday season.
When it comes to where to stay, choose one of the premier Rockland hotels, like the Berry Manor Inn or the Talbot House. Both offer a different guest experience, depending on your needs and are cozy and welcoming places to stay in MidCoast Maine. These historic Rockland hotels are situated in the heart of Rockland and provide the perfect blend of comfort and luxury. After a day of exploring and enjoying the area’s festive merriment, return to warm, classic comfort and enjoy the relaxing getaway you crave. We’ll be decorated for the holidays and would love to share a taste of authentic Maine with you this winter. Book your stay today!
Don’t Miss the Rockland Festival of Lights
The Rockland Festival of Lights is one of our favorite things to do in Rockland during the holiday season. The event takes place annually in late November and draws both locals and visitors. This year’s event will take place November 29-December 1 and kicks off with the arrival of Santa at the Middle Pier (via boat!) in downtown Rockland.
Beyond the parade, the Rockland Festival of Lights features the popular Lobster Trap Tree – the largest of its kind in the country. The tree lighting ceremony will be on Friday night, featuring live holiday music, hot drinking chocolate, coffee, and plenty of contagious holiday cheer. Shops up and down Main Street will be decorated for the holidays, and on Saturday, many of them will feature special deals and promotions in celebration of Small Business Saturday. Besides the chance to meet Santa at his workshop and see this magnificent tree lit up for the season, the weekend will feature plenty of local artisans, food vendors, and holiday shopping opportunities.
On Saturday evening, join us for the annual Parade of Lights, one of the many highlights of the Rockland Festival of Lights. This dazzling parade of lights winds through the heart of downtown Rockland. Expect to see creatively decorated floats, twinkling holiday lights, and plenty of festive cheer. This parade is a must-see and captures the spirit of the season in a uniquely Rockland way. No wonder it’s one of our favorite things to do in Rockland in the winter!
Gardens Aglow & More on MidCoast Maine
In addition to the Rockland Festival of Lights, the towns of MidCoast Maine offer a variety of holiday activities that make November and December an enchanting time to visit. Whether you’re strolling through quaint downtowns decorated for the season or participating in local holiday traditions, like Gardens Aglow at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, there’s plenty to experience. From shopping at festive markets to enjoying cozy evenings by the fire at our Rockland Hotels, there are plenty of things to do in Rockland and the surrounding area this season. Below, we’ve highlighted some other holiday events in MidCoast Maine.
- Gardens Aglow is a stunning display that transforms the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens into a winter wonderland. With thousands of lights magically illuminating the gardens, it’s a must-see event that draws visitors from all over. This year’s event will run on weekends from November 16 – December 31.
- Like the Rockland Festival of Lights, Camden Christmas by the Sea is a festive weekend in early December filled with holiday parades, tree lighting ceremonies, and plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping in one of Maine’s most picturesque towns. This event will take place December 6 – 8.
- Freeport’s Sparkle Celebration, an event known for its famous parade of lights and visit from Santa, also includes horse-drawn carriage rides, a talking Christmas tree, and plenty of holiday shopping. This event will take place December 6 – 15.
Stay at the Best Rockland Hotels
Whether you’re here to enjoy the charms of the Rockland Festival of Lights, see the magnificent Gardens Aglow display, or simply looking for a place to relax, our Rockland hotels offer the ultimate place to stay in MidCoast, Maine. If you’re looking for an elevated and romantic getaway during the holiday season, plan to stay at our luxury Berry Manor Inn, one of the finest Rockland hotels.
The Berry Manor Inn combines luxurious accommodations with a charming, historic atmosphere, making it a perfect escape for couples looking to celebrate the season in style. With elevated amenities like fireplaces and jetted or soaking tubs, these guest rooms are ideal for a cozy and sophisticated retreat. In the morning, you’ll be treated to a delectable multi-course breakfast, included with the cost of your stay. The inn’s location in Rockland provides easy access to local holiday events, ensuring that guests can enjoy the festive spirit while still relishing the quiet and intimacy of their stay.
Our sister property, The Rockland Talbot House, also offers an ideal holiday season getaway in downtown Rockland. The house’s historic charm is complemented by modern amenities, making it a perfect spot for couples seeking a cozy and romantic escape. Whether relaxing in one of the beautifully appointed rooms or enjoying the common areas, the Rockland Talbot House provides an inviting atmosphere that feels like a true home away from home. Guests at this property will enjoy a grab-and-go style breakfast, perfect for schedule-free escapes.
Both Rockland hotels offer a stocked, 24-hour guest pantry with assorted teas, a microwave, coffee, popcorn, cocoa, and a nightly homemade treat. You’ll find personalized service and a unique and comfortable experience in whichever property you choose. Every detail is designed with comfort in mind. Book your stay at our top-rated hotels in Rockland, Maine, today!