Portland Area Holiday Activities for Kids050

Whether there's snow on the ground or flurries have yet to fly, Portland comes alive during the holiday season with tree lightings, Nutcracker performances, outdoor activities, First Night activities, and other festive events. Here's a sampling of family activities: Portland's annual tree-lighting ceremony kicks off the holiday season in Monument Square. Also in Monument Square, families can take a free horse and wagon ride throughout the Old Port and Arts District, Fridays through Sundays until December 21. Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum offers special Polar Express rides throughout December. Tickets go fast, though, so plan ahead. In Freeport, the L.L. Bean grounds feature an incredible display of lights throughout as well as activity and product demonstrations, crafts for kids, a 40-foot holiday tree, ice carvings, life-sized gingerbread characters, and carolers and other entertainment throughout the holiday season. Do you a favorite holiday event happening in the Portland area? Feel free to add it to the comment section below. Also, don't forget to check our event calendar - we're constantly updating it with the latest holiday happenings.