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Posts Tagged ‘Christmas Prelude’

Christmas Prelude One of World’s Best Christmas Festivals

December 13th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

Now, all of us in Kennebunkport have known for ages that Christmas Prelude is incredible, but just yesterday, AOL SKYE released their list of the Best Christmas Festivals in the World- and guess who was on the list?!!?  You guessed it!  Although I suppose that the title gave that away, but how cool is that?  It’s kind of hard to believe how any Christmas celebration could top ours, but when

Bob Dennis Christmas Prelude fireworks photograph

Check out this incredible shot of the Christmas Prelude fireworks by Bob Dennis of Port Images!

you see that historic cities like London and Nuremberg hold several of the spots, Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude (just celebrating it’s 31st anniversary) is a mere baby by comparison.  What an honor!

A couple of years ago, reporters announced that over nine thousand people gathered in Dock Square, just steps from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, to watch the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree, but somehow this festival has maintained a charming, and intimate feeling.  It’s hard to believe that just over thirty years ago, Christmas Prelude was conceived as a fun event for local shopkeepers to say thank you to the community for their patronage throughout the year and it now finds itself among the top 14 Christmas Festivals in the entire world.  Now it’s our turn to say “thank you” to those very store owners for their continued efforts to keep this great event locally run (not to mention the fact that they are a pleasure to work with).  It has stretched to encompass two weekends of holiday cheer, and this year’s celebration was no exception – not even when the second weekend was graced with a little bit of rain.  And with fireworks over the Kennebunk River inlet, who would miss it?  We’re getting ready to fill you in on the details of the second annual Walk to Bethlehem – a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for an inn, complete with livestock, wise men, and, of course, innkeepers.  While you’ll have to wait a touch longer for the cute pics, we just couldn’t wait one second longer to share the exciting news about Christmas Prelude as one of the world’s best Christmas Festivals!

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Holiday Shopping in Kennebunkport Maine

December 6th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

The fall seems to have flown by and the holiday season is fully upon us, but fortunately for visitors to and residents of Kennebunkport Maine, you can conquer your entire shopping list in and around town!  Most people know of the incredible art galleries sprinkled throughout this quaint little village – which is great for the serious art lovers in your family – but the charming shops and boutiques are also ideal for finding unique gifts for the whole family.  And at this time of year, most of the stores are

kennebunkport maine bed and breakfast deal

Our Holiday gift certificate sale is back!

offering door-buster deals that are not to be missed.

As much as I hate to admit it, there are more than a few times that you just can’t check off your list at a small local business, and that’s when nearby shopping centers come in very handy!  Just up the road from our Kennebunkport Maine bed and breakfast, you’ll find some big box stores to satisfy your electronics needs.  But if you’re looking to save even more, you could venture about 30 miles to our south and accomplish those big ticket purchases in tax-free Portsmouth, New Hampshire.  On your way, make sure not to miss the Kittery Outlets, which are home to 120 shops!  Or head north and hit the Freeport Outlets and the famous L.L. Bean – it really is open 24 hours a day.  While a little smaller in scale than its southern counterpart, the Freeport shopping experience feels a little more town-like, but still offers great prices from big name retailers.

But you can also satisfy some tough-to-please family members and friends with gifts straight from the Maine Stay Inn – think gift certificates, luxury bath products, or even a set of our luxurious linens.  No matter who or what you’re shopping for this season, you’re sure to be able to finish it all right from Kennebunkport Maine and enjoy a little pampering in the process!

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Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast Wishes Former President Bush a Speedy Recovery

December 4th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

Everyone at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast wishes former President George H.W. Bush a speedy recovery.  Recently hospitalized near his winter-time home in Houston, Bush is suffering from a nasty cough that has lingered after a bout of bronchitis.  While his prognosis is good, a painful cough at the age of 88 is something that must be monitored closely, and all of us at the Maine Stay Inn are happy to hear that the former President is under the watchful eyes of medical professionals.  His and

Kennebunkport bush compound

A great view of the Bush Compound from Kennebunkport’s Ocean Avenue!

Barbara’s presence was certainly missed at this past weekend’s kick-off to Christmas Prelude, but we all know that the warm Texas air is certainly a better place for him to recuperate than Maine’s brisk December weather.  Last Saturday featured gentle snowfall throughout the day, and certainly set the perfect scene for Kennebunkport’s famous Christmas celebration.  But the mercury topped out at an unseasonably warm 50 degrees!  That means that visitors to Kennebunkport are enjoying the twinkling light displays and gorgeous decorations without even having to bundle up.  So this week, you can leave your boots at home, because this warm streak is supposed to last for quite a few more days, and instead pack your walking shoes, because exploring town on foot is one of the best ways to drink in the village’s unparalleled holiday cheer.  But don’t forget to send the former President wishes for a speedy recovery if you find yourself strolling by the Bush family compound – we certainly are!

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Christmas Prelude Has Arrived in Kennebunkport!

December 1st, 2012 by Judi Hauer

This morning visitors to Kennebunkport woke up to a light snowfall (the best kind – no shoveling required!) and prepared for day two of Christmas Prelude.  During the day, Dock Square was bustling with folks getting a jump on their Christmas shopping, sipping cocoa, and enjoying old-fashioned trolley rides.  But around 5 o’clock, our sleepy little village exploded with holiday cheer as we waited with great anticipation for the lighting of the Christmas tree!  While waiting for that exciting moment, we were

Christmas Prelude Kennebunkport

The Christmas Prelude tree is lit – complete with its iconic lobster tree topper!

serenaded by a variety of vocal and acoustic groups.  And later, out in Cape Porpoise, everyone enjoyed a second lighting of the iconic lobster trap tree!

Today’s schedule of events is packed with fun activities and great shopping opportunities, but here are some of our favorites.

  • Craft Fairs Galore!  Through the afternoon, enjoy great shopping opportunities at the Lower Village Fire Station, Atlantic Hall in Cape Porpoise, the American Legion (across from the Police Station), and the Lower Village Senior Center.  Or you could check out the offerings at the Village Baptist Church, the Community House (next to South Congregational Church), and, of course, the mother of all craft fairs at the Consolidated School, just around the corner from our Maine bed and breakfast.
  • Tour the town!  When you’re in HGTV’s second best Christmas town in the nation, you’ve got to experience it all, so hop aboard an old-fashioned trolley for a warm and cozy tour of Kennebunkport – perfect for photos of the decked out splendor.  Or consider wandering over to the Nott House, home of the Kennebunkport Historical Society for a tour of the White Columns property, or enjoy a guided village walking tour leaving from the same location!
  • Don’t miss the Annual Hat Parade through Dock Square this afternoon – it’s a must-see!
  • A favorite feature of Christmas Prelude Weekend One is the caroling and processional from the Lower Village tree lighting to the Franciscan Monastery by candlelight.  Complete with chestnuts roasting on an open fire (and Jack Frost nipping at your nose… it is December in Maine!), this is an awe-inspiring event sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Now, this doesn’t list doesn’t come close to touching all of the incredible activities happening all over Kennebunkport this weekend, so be sure to check out the complete list of events here.  Happy Christmas Prelude!

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Gearing Up For Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude

November 21st, 2012 by Judi Hauer

It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is right upon us, but we’re in full swing gearing up for Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude. In fact, as I was driving through Dock Square just moments ago, and found people setting up the Christmas tree! The garlands are up, adorning the sides of the bridge and all of the lamp and electrical posts lining the streets.  So while we haven’t quite broken out our festive decorations (but it’s coming,

The Christmas Prelude tree is going up in Kennebunkport's Dock Square!

Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude

that’s for sure!), the town is really filling us with holiday cheer!

So after our bellies are filled tomorrow and we share our thanks for the blessings in our lives, we’ll start the preparation in earnest, because we certainly want to keep up Kennebunkport’s reputation as having one of the best Christmas celebrations in the nation.  And Christmas Prelude is certainly worth it’s title, with festive decor tastefully gracing the homes and bed and breakfasts of the Historic District and a plethora of merriment-filled activities.  At the Maine Stay Inn, we are particularly looking forward to the second weekend of Christmas Prelude, which has grown by leaps and bounds over the past few years.  Don’t get me wrong, the first weekend is incredible, and with the throngs of people milling about, the town just comes alive with Christmas spirit.  But the second weekend encompasses our favorite events, with classic events like tree lighting and caroling, but also incredible events like fireworks, doggie parades, and an inn-to-inn open house.  But last year, the Historic Inns of Kennebunkport debuted our new fave – a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for an inn, complete with caroling and holiday goodies.  So while all of us are looking forward to Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport, we can’t wait for a delicious feast tomorrow and spending time with those important in our lives.  We hope that you all have an opportunity to do the same and look forward to sharing this joyous holiday season with you!

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Maine Bed and Breakfasts Prepare for "Walk to Bethlehem"

December 7th, 2011 by avadmin

In preparation for this weekend’s celebration of Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport, the innkeepers of several Maine Bed and Breakfasts, including the Maine Stay, did a trial run of the “Walk to Bethlehem” yesterday.  We’re all so excited!  But what, you might ask, is this walk?  Well, think back to that very first Christmas story… Joseph and Mary, very much with child, search tirelessly for a

Christmas Prelude Hat Parade in Kennebunkport Maine

This year's "Walk to Bethlehem" might not be as hilarious as last weekend's Crazy Hat Parade, it is sure to be a blast!

place to rest their heads and bring baby Jesus into the world.  But inn after inn is full, and they find themselves repeatedly turned away, until a generous innkeeper makes room for them in his stable.  Apparently re-enactments of this famous search are performed in many cultures around the globe each Christmas, so we thought, what better place to conduct such a search than in Kennebunkport Maine with its multitude of excellent B&Bs?!  The planning began just about a year ago, and will culminated in the first annual “Walk to Bethlehem” among Maine Bed and Breakfasts.

Get ready, because 4:00 on Saturday is quickly approaching!  Visitors and locals alike are encouraged to gather at the Captain Jefferds Inn, the first stop on our festive journey.  Caroling will be interspersed with short Bible readings and commentary from a local pastor, and the brief walks between our Maine Bed and Breakfasts will be lighted by luminaries.  But the best part is sure to be the amateur acting by the innkeepers and staff (though, we must mention that Joseph will be played by a very generous – and good spirited – volunteer).  I, for one, am ready for some great laughs!  The procession, led by Mary on horseback, will continue throughout the Kennebunkport Maine historic district and commence at the Captain Lord Mansion barn (seriously, could we have planned any better?!).  In celebration of baby Jesus’s speedy birth (I think we have allocated all of about 30 seconds), we hope you will join us for more singing, cups of cocoa, and oodles of homemade Christmas cookies!  It’s time to get in the holiday spirit!

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Christmas Prelude is Underway in Kennebunkport Maine

December 3rd, 2011 by avadmin

Kennebunkport Maine is alive with the activities of Christmas Prelude, and tonight is no exception! Now that the tree has been lit with its signature lobster topper, town looks particularly festive.  That

Christmas Prelude Tree Topper in Kennebunkport Maine

The signature lobster-topped tree in downtown Kennebunkport Maine

said, this time of year is always especially cheerful, with Christmas trees lining the downtown area, light posts wrapped in garlands, and historic homes (including our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast) sparkling with their Christmas lights.  In 2010, over 9,000 people lined the streets to celebrate the 29th anniversary of Christmas Prelude, and while the total for 2011 hasn’t been tallied yet, estimates are that the 30th year was an even bigger hit!

This afternoon’s activities featured a multitude of craft fairs, shopping extravaganzas, art shows, and, of course, the signature Crazy Hat Parade.  We strolled leisurely from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast downtown, feeling sorry for the lines of traffic unknowingly driving (or attempting to drive) through Dock Square, as the streets were barricaded for over an hour for this annual event. On the bright side though, they got front row seat to this fantastic event!  Crowds lined the street (akin to a miniature version of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade) while several hundred enthusiastic folks donned on the most ridiculous costumes and hats you could imagine.  Laughter and cheering followed each group, and children were rewarded for their patience and cooperation with candy canes!  For a full recap of images, check out our Facebook album dedicated to Christmas Prelude 2011.

The incredible array of activities continue well into the evening and throughout tomorrow, but if you didn’t make it this weekend there is still some availability to join us next weekend for Prelude Round 2!  Tonight many will enjoy the candlelit caroling at the Franciscan Monastery, festive dinners at our fantastic area restaurants, dancing in Cape Porpoise, and live music.  Now, we’re off for lobster dinner at the Washington Hose Fire Station for an old fashioned lobster bake!  Hope to see you there!

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Kennebunkport Maine Celebrates Small Business Saturday

November 26th, 2011 by avadmin

Kennebunkport Maine Shopping in Dock Square

Dock Square - Perfect for holiday shopping in Kennebunkport Maine

The small boutiques, galleries, and antique shops that line the streets in Kennebunkport Maine are perfect for filling Christmas stockings and completing wish-lists, but they also make the ideal location for participating in Small Business Saturday.  Now, this charming New England village might not have any big box stores for your Black Friday sprees (although all your faves are at your fingertips just up the road in Biddeford), but it does have countless opportunities for one-of-a-kind gifts.  Next year, when planning your Thanksgiving getaway, don’t despair – you can still indulge in your Black Friday traditions when visiting Kennebunkport Maine. Every year at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast we have a visitor or two who head off (no matter the time or weather) in order to score big deals for their Christmas lists, but every year they return to stroll our scenic streets.  And with the innovation of Small Business Saturday, Kennebunkport can fulfill any shopper’s needs for the holiday season.  So here’s just a smattering of the incredible small businesses in town sure to have just the thing you’re looking for:

  • For classic women’s wear, check out Carla’s Boutique, known for their high and and even higher quality apparel. If you’re in need of something a little trendier, try Benoits – but be forewarned, their jewelry is so fabulous you might not be able to leave empty handed!  American Sailor will satisfy the whole family’s need for seaside prep, while Zen and Company caters to those looking for Bohemian chic.
  • Abacus and Complements both offer unique and hand-crafted options for jewelry and home accessories – no cookie cutter gifts here!
  • Port Shoes offers comfortable footwear ideal for exploring Kennebunkport Maine, but with personality and style.  Plus, it’s the only spot in town to find the North Face products (check that off your list!).
  • Living room need a boost?  Check out Minka Home or Spaces for modern accessories with spunk.
  • Unique gifts for kiddos and adults alike are easily found at DayTrip Jr. and DayTrip Society.
So next year when planning your holiday shopping adventures, Kennebunkport Maine should top your list!  Happy Holidays!

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Kennebunkport Maine And Its Wacky Weather

November 20th, 2011 by avadmin

We all know that the weather in Kennebunkport Maine and all of New England is entirely unpredictable, but this year it seems especially fickle.  Today, it hit 60 degrees, but exactly one year ago today it was a paltry 26 degrees!  But on Halloween, New England was walloped with an unprecedented October snowstorm, requiring plowing of our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast multiple times.  After that, who would have thought that you would need, or even want, your short-sleeved clothing and flip-flops out again?  Not us!

Fall in Kennebunkport Maine

Wreaths and Pumpkins!

But here in Kennebunkport Maine, we are clinging dearly to these lovely, mild days so characteristic of the early fall.  In fact, we haven’t even been able to part with our decorative pumpkins or flowering mums.  Even our newly blooming roses are really confused, but they certainly are beautiful.  With a colder stretch expected later in the week, we wonder how many more of the buds will actually bloom before winter sets in.  No matter what the roses might indicate, the reality is that Thanksgiving is just around the corner and our famous Christmas Prelude a mere 12 days away.  Despite clinging on to autumn, our Christmas decorations are going up – and looking slightly ridiculous surrounded by flowers and pumpkin.

Even still, plans for Thanksgiving evening refreshments and Christmas cookies are in the works.  And since these 60 degree days surely won’t last forever, we are eagerly awaiting the installation of our exterior winter mudroom – not only will it help keep the snow from being tracked inside the house, but those nor’easter winds will stay right where they belong – outside.  So when visitors return after the new “Walk to Bethlehem” or the “Pooch Parade” during the second weekend of Christmas Prelude, they can lounge in the living room, enjoying a glowing fire without being disturbed by a breeze through the front door! But no matter what time of year you decide to visit Kennebunkport Maine, make sure to prepare for whatever Mother Nature might throw our way.  No matter what the weather forecast has in store, though, the natural beauty of this area is irrepressible.

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Top 10: November in Kennebunkport Maine

November 12th, 2011 by avadmin

The leaves are finally falling here in Kennebunkport Maine (although many are remarkably still near their peak), and the town is settling in to its even more relaxed rhythm.  But an evening run along the beach a few nights ago got me thinking about why November in Maine is so spectacular.  Granted, I am a little partial – my very first visit to Kennebunkport was at Thanksgiving, so this season brings back so many wonderful memories.  That said, the late fall is incredible!  So here are my top ten reasons to visit town this month:

November Sunset in Kennebunkport Maine

A November Sunset in Kennebunkport Maine

10.  Decorations – whether you choose to visit near the beginning and witness spooky Halloween decor or fun celebrations of the autumn harvest (think houses decked out with pumpkins, gourds, hay bales, and cornstalks) or instead arrive as Kennebunkport Maine prepares for its annual Christmas Prelude festival, it is sure to be beautiful.  Honestly, I am astounded each day as I drive through the community by the lengths locals go to “get in the spirit” this time of year.  Strolls through the historic districts of Kennebunkport and Kennebunk alike are sure to amaze you.  Plus, at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, we’ve got self-guided tours to steer you in the right direction!

9.  The beaches – yes, at this time of year they’re quiet.  Perfect for drinking in unobstructed views of the sea.  With no sand castle obstacles at your feet, you could walk for hours without any interruption.  Leave your cell in the car and you’re certain to enjoy a true escape!

8.  Snuggling by a roaring fire!  Honestly, what could be better than cuddling with your special someone on a chilly night?  One you don’t have to stoke yourself!  So pour yourself a mug of cocoa, slip into a cozy robe, and let the relaxation begin.

7.  Thanksgiving – okay, I’ve got to put in a plug for one of my favorite holidays.  No only is everyone getting into the holiday spirit, their visits are drama free – yep, no family squabbles here!  Not in the mood for cooking a turkey with all the fixings? Let one of our Kennebunkport restaurants do it for you, or just join us for light refreshments (and fabulous company) in the evening.

6.  Fall foods – everyone seems to have hopped aboard the local food train, and we’re simply stoked!  So in addition to Maine staples gracing your plates, you’re sure to find some delectable fall faves – pumpkin, cranberry, yams and more.  And breakfast at the Maine Stay is no exception – seasonal recipes, here we come!

5.  Dinner when you want it.  This quieter season means tables are to be had (with and even without reservations) at the choicest of dining times.  So what’s for dinner?

4.  Crunching through the fallen leaves.  Enough said.

3.  Early sunrises – that means plenty of time for a sunrise hike or a brisk morning run before tucking into one of our hearty morning meals.  And what could beat a sunrise over the Atlantic?

2.  Shopping -  bargains, deals, and steals, oh my!  There are savings to be had at all the boutiques in Dock Square and Lower Village, as well as at the famous Kittery and Freeport Outlets, so get all of your holiday shopping done during one trip and at unbeatable prices.

1.  The deals!  November 1 marked the start of our “Peaceful Season,” which means you’ll get the same great accommodations, wonderful food, and special treatment you’ve come to expect at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, but at low, low prices – don’t miss out!

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