Whether by the coast or inland, Maine features many special community tree lighting ceremonies and parades — thus, proving that Maine vacations and day-trip travel extend well beyond summer! Even a special lighthouse gets dressed up for the holiday season (more on that below)! The events aren’t just limited to tree lighting, however; many events include caroling, crafts, kids activities, etc. Without further ado, here are a few Maine tree lighting ceremonies, sent to us by the Maine Office of Tourism:

Caribou in Aroostook County (northern Maine) will hold its annual Tree Lighting and Parade on Nov. 27 with Santa arriving in his sleigh and heading to the Caribou Fire Department where children share their wish lists.

Greenville will also hold its tree lighting on Nov. 27 during the Deck the Halls Holiday Celebration. Public meals, activities for children, craft fairs, carols sung by the Greenville Community Choir, and a parade with Christmas-themed floats will take place during this day-long event.

Maine’s most unique tree-lighting ceremony will grace the southern Maine coast on Nov. 27 just before the Lighting of the Nubble at Nubble Lighthouse in York at Sohier Park. Everyone watches the water in front of the lighthouse as – ocean conditions permitting – a scuba diving team raises a lighted tree to float on the surface. There’s music and free hot chocolate and cookies for all.

The giant spruce tree in Waterville’s Castonguay Square gets its glow on during the Parade of Lights celebration on Nov. 26. A parade down Main Street and a visit from Santa at his house in Kringleville will highlight the festivities.