Maine Stories

Maine is known for its community parades. Big parades and small ones in cities and towns of every size. Summer is the busiest time for parading, with plenty of school groups and marching bands leading the way. But the month of December comes a close second.

With an average temperature of 20 degrees during the month, December parade spectators loose some of the comfort of relaxing in a lawn chair in a t-shirt and shorts. But, the colder weather has no effect on the enthusiasm of parade participants and the creative floats they travel on.

The excitement starts in northern Maine where nearly 10,000 people pack Presque Isle’s Main Street after dark for the annual Holiday Light Parade. Dozens of floats and vehicles pass by decorated with thousands of colorful lights. This year’s parade happens December 1. For information call 207-764-6561 or visit www.pichamber.org.

On the same day, the central town of Winthrop will have a Holiday Parade as part of a full day of events. There will also be craft fairs, visits with Santa Claus and a library open house. To learn more call 207-377-8020.

A third parade happening on the first day of the month certainly has the most appropriate theme for the season. Farmington’s Chester Greenwood Day Parade celebrates the local man who invented in the earmuff. Participants and spectators are encouraged to wear their favorite style ear warmers during the fun event. To learn more call 207-778-4215 or visit www.franklincountymaine.org.

On December 8, the coastal town of Wells gets in the holiday spirit with the 24th Annual Southern Maine Christmas Parade. The procession starts at Wells Plaza and heads north on Route 1 to Wells Junior High School. More than 30 groups, bands and marching units take part in the event. More information is available at www.southernmaineparade.com or by calling 207-646-2451.

Also on the 8th is the Great Hallowell Christmas Parade. This event takes place on the final day of Christmas in Old Hallowell which begins December 5. The parade travels down historic Water Street along the Kennebec River. To learn more call 207-620-7477.

Another parade beside the Kennebec happens December 24 in the city of Bath during the one day Olde Fashion Christmas in Bath. The Jingle Bell Walk winds through the city’s downtown and includes the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus in a dory filled with presents.