Winter in the Sebago Lake region is long, snowy, and full of possibility. Our trails turn into quiet wonderlands, local mountains come alive, and ponds and rinks become some of the happiest places for kids to burn off energy. But let’s be honest — the cost of winter activities can add up quickly, especially when you’re trying to keep things fun for the whole family.
That’s why the WinterKids Passport is one of my favorite resources for Maine families. And this year, I’m thrilled to share that I’m joining WinterKids as an official WinterKids Ambassador! I’m so excited to partner with this amazing organization and will be sharing our own family’s winter adventures all season long — from snowshoeing and skiing to skating, sledding, and more.
💌 Don’t Miss Local Winter Fun!
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A Little History: Celebrating 25 Years of WinterKids
WinterKids is celebrating its 25th year, and their story is such a special part of Maine’s outdoor culture.
The program started as a simple Ski Passport for 5th graders back in the early 2000s. The goal? Help Maine kids get outside, stay active, and fall in love with winter — regardless of their family’s financial situation or experience level.
Over the years, the passport expanded to include:
- More age groups
- More mountains and outdoor partners
- New types of winter activities (like ice skating, tubing, nordic skiing, and snowshoeing)
- Special family days and community events
Today, WinterKids has helped tens of thousands of Maine kids experience healthy winter fun, and the Passport has grown into an incredible resource for families across the state — including ours here in the Sebago Lake region.
How the WinterKids Passport Benefits Local Families
The WinterKids Passport is designed to make winter exploration more accessible, affordable, and fun. For just $40 per family, you unlock a season’s worth of adventures — often at a fraction of the usual cost.
Here’s what makes it especially valuable for families in the Sebago Lake region:
1. Free Lift Tickets, Free Rentals & Big Savings
From day trips to local mountains to spontaneous skating afternoons, the Passport helps you stretch your winter budget while still saying “yes” to adventure.
2. Activities for Every Age & Skill Level
Your family doesn’t have to be a “ski family” to enjoy the Passport. There are offers for skating, snowshoeing, climbing, open gyms, hockey games, and more!
3. Easy Planning with the WinterKids App
Browse nearby offers, redeem passes, and get ideas for winter fun in minutes — perfect for busy parents.
The Offers We Can’t Wait to Use This Winter
As a WinterKids Ambassador — and as a mom who loves getting outdoors — here are some of the specific Passport perks I am especially excited to use with my own kids this season:
Free Ice Skating at Thompson’s Point (Portland)
A free child skate session with a paying adult at The Rink at Thompson’s Point.
Skating here feels magical with the lights, music, and waterfront views — perfect for a little midwinter adventure.
Free Trail Pass + Rentals at Five Fields Farm (Bridgton)
We love this orchard-turned-winter-wonderland.
The Passport includes a free junior trail ticket AND free rental equipment with a paid adult — a huge savings and a fantastic way to introduce kids to cross-country skiing.
Free Youth XC Skiing or Snowshoeing at Maineland Farms (New Gloucester)
Another gem just outside the Sebago region.
Kids get a free trail pass for nordic skiing or snowshoeing with an adult.
Free Junior Lift Tickets at Local Mountains
Some big wins for families wanting to try downhill skiing without the big commitment:
- Black Mountain of Maine: Free junior lift ticket with a paying adult
- Pleasant Mountain: Free junior lift ticket with a paying adult — perfect for Sebago-area families!
- Sunday River (Night Skiing): Free junior night skiing lift ticket with a paying adult
These discounts alone can easily save a family hundreds of dollars.
Discounted Maine Mariners Hockey Tickets (Portland)
We love a good family night out!
The Passport includes discounted Mariners tickets, which is a fun and affordable way to enjoy live sports in Portland.
Free Youth Open Gym at Maine Warrior Gym (South Portland)
A full-body movement playground where kids can climb, swing, and burn tons of energy. The Passport gives you a free youth open gym session — a perfect indoor option on extra-cold days.
50% Off Youth Climbing at Salt Pump Climbing Co. (Scarborough)
A great way to try indoor climbing this winter.
Kids get 50% off a youth climbing package, making it much easier to introduce them to the sport or just try something new.
Why I’m Proud to Be a WinterKids Ambassador
For years, I’ve been encouraging families to get outdoors year-round — not just in the warm months. WinterKids aligns beautifully with that mission.
This season, I’ll be sharing:
- Our experiences using the Passport
- Which offers we loved the most
- Tips for getting started with winter sports
- Ideas for inexpensive winter outings
- Behind-the-scenes moments from our own winter adventures
I’m grateful for the chance to partner with an organization that’s been making winter accessible, joyful, and active for Maine kids for 25 years — and I can’t wait to bring you along.
Final Thoughts: Winter Is Better When We Get Outside
If your family wants to ski more, skate more, explore more, or simply try something new this winter, the WinterKids Passport is truly one of the best tools out there. It opens doors, removes barriers, and helps kids fall in love with Maine’s most iconic season — without breaking the budget. You can learn more or sign up here: https://winterkids.org/passport/
💌 Want more family-friendly winter ideas?
Subscribe to the Lake Region Kids Calendar newsletter for weekly events, seasonal freebies, and outdoor inspiration.
👉 https://lakeregionkidscalendar.com/subscribe/
And if your family uses the Passport this winter, I’d love to see your adventures — tag @lakeregionkidscalendar so I can celebrate them with you!
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