There’s something timeless about gathering around a glowing tree on a crisp December evening. Whether it’s a quick stop after school for cocoa and carols, or a full-scale holiday festival complete with parades and fireworks, tree lighting events mark the true start of the season for many families.

This year, communities all across the Sebago Lake region—and beyond—are keeping the tradition alive with free, family-friendly celebrations. From the magic of L.L.Bean’s Northern Lights to hometown events in Standish, New Gloucester, and Gray, there’s truly something for every family.

Use this guide to find the event closest to home—or make a night of it and head to one of the bigger celebrations like Portland or Pineland Farms.

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Friday, November 21

L.L.Bean Northern Lights – Opening Night (Freeport)

5:45 p.m.
Experience one of Maine’s most enchanting holiday traditions. From the moment the lights switch on, the entire L.L.Bean campus transforms into a winter wonderland.
👉 Details: https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/512152?page=northern-lights

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Friday, November 28

Monument Square Tree Lighting (Portland)

4:30 p.m.
One of Maine’s largest tree lighting celebrations returns to downtown Portland with music, festivities, and plenty of holiday spirit.
👉 Details: https://portlandmaine.com/monument-square-tree-lighting/

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Sunday, November 30

Gray Holiday Tree Lighting (Gray)

4:00 p.m.
A cozy, community-minded celebration featuring festive fun for families.
👉 Details: https://grayme.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29764

Tiny Timber Tree Lighting (New Gloucester)

4:40 p.m.
A sweet, small-town event perfect for younger kids who love a gentle start to the holiday season.
👉 Details: https://www.facebook.com/events/379-intervale-rd-new-gloucester-me-united-states-maine-04260/tiny-timber-tree-lighting/683046631193721/

Gorham Light Parade & Tree Lighting (Gorham)

4:30–5:30 p.m.
Festive floats, twinkling lights, and a community tree lighting all in one. A great pick for families who love a parade!
👉 Details: https://gorhamme.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=15036

Standish Tree Lighting & Jingle Bell Bash (Standish)

5:20 p.m.
A cheerful, family-focused celebration right in the heart of Standish with music, community spirit, and plenty of holiday cheer.
👉 Details: https://standishme.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30380

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Thursday, December 4

Pineland Farms – Light the Farm (New Gloucester)

4:45 p.m.
One of the most magical holiday scenes in Southern Maine—historic barns, twinkling lights, and festive activities for all ages.
👉 Details: https://shop.pinelandfarms.org/products/light-the-farm

Very Merry Falmouth (Falmouth)

5:30 p.m.
A joyful community kickoff to the holiday season with music, activities, and the annual town tree lighting.
👉 Details: https://www.falmouthme.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=45

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Saturday, December 6

Bridgton Festival of Lights (Bridgton)

6:30 p.m.
A beloved annual celebration with a small-town feel, twinkling lights, and festive fun for families.
👉 Details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1781477039208636

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Sunday, December 7

Light Up Westbrook (Westbrook)

4:45–5:30 p.m.
Kick off December with this popular community celebration featuring music, lights, and a bright start to the holiday season.
👉 Details: https://www.downtownwestbrook.com/light-up-westbrook/

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Find the Perfect Tree Lighting Event for Your Family

Whether you’re looking for something right in your own community or planning an outing to one of the larger celebrations—like L.L.Bean’s Northern Lights, Portland’s Monument Square, or Pineland Farms—there are festive tree lighting events for every family to enjoy.

🗓️ Browse our full calendar to find more fun things to do. Www.lakeregionkidscalendar.com/calendar

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Bundle up, grab some cocoa, and enjoy the glow of the season!