Peru has the Inca Trail, Boston has the Freedom Trail and Maine has...the Pumpkin Trail!
Maine does a lot of things well. Lobster, beaches, whoopie pies, lakes, sensible boots, sugary sweet drinks...the list goes on and on. But, of all the things we do well, it might be autumn that we do the best. Yesterday we told you all about an awesome fall foliage train trip. Today, we're bringing you something so unique, you likely had no idea it even existed in Maine! Before this season is over (and after the fall foliage train trip, of course) take a journey down Maine's Pumpkin Trail!
Maine’s Pumpkin Trail consists of over 50 miles of some of the most wonderful mid-coast coastline. It includes cruises, train rides, a pumpkin boat race, parades and lots more! The events that are a part of the trail began earlier in September, but we've collected some things that are upcoming!
1. Lighthouse Legends and Lore Cruise - September 30th
This is event is perfect for those with a love of Maine's coastal history. Guided by the "mysterious Lady in the Red Cloak," passengers on this trip will explore seven lighthouses. Among them are: Doubling Point Light, Hendrick's Head Light, Seguin Island Light, Ram Island Light and The Cuckolds. The trip even includes a land-visit to Burnt Island which means exploring the keeper's house and the Burnt Island Light tower.
This wonderful fall celebration is one of the best small mid-coast events of its type. It's great for people who aren't into the huge fairs, but want to get a bit more into that Maine autumn spirit. There will be crafts, live music, barnyard animals, a working blacksmith and other traditional artists and barrel train rides. Click here for more information.
3. First Friday at the Farnsworth Museum in Camden - October 7th
This month's event will be a celebration for the opening of "The Art of Disaster." This special fall-themed event will include live music, fun treats, interactive photo displays and lots of "pumpkin disasters." We're not entirely sure what that means, but you should click here for more information.
advertisement
4. Damariscotta Pumpkin Festival and Regatta in Damariscotta - Oct 1 to Oct 10
Of all the things that make us proud of Maine, this could just be number one! On Columbus Day Weekend, head to Damariscotta for the best celebration of pumpkins you've ever seen. Events include the annual Official "Giant Pumpkin Parade," The Pumpkinboat Regatta and The Giant Pumpkin Drop. Yes, folks, this is real. And you'd be crazy to miss it!
5. Pumpkin Fest Baking Contest in Damariscotta - October 8th, 10am
The pumpkin festival is so great that individual events get their own special place on the Maine Pumpkin Trail. This one is definitely the most delicious. The event is open to anyone who wants to try their hand at becoming the best pumpkin-dessert creator in Maine. Participants can make anything they'd like but must include fresh, frozen, or canned pumpkin. Drop off your dessert 10am and 11am. Winners are announced at 1:15pm. The best part? You can taste all the good stuff! Click here for more information.
6. Pumpkinfest Parade in Damariscotta - October 8th
The pumpkin festivities are just getting started. Enjoy one of the biggest events of the weekend by lining up to see all the fun pumpkin related costumes and some of the largest actual pumpkins you've ever laid eyes on. The parade begins at 2pm. Click here for more information.
7. Pumpkinfest Regatta in Damariscotta - October 9th
And, finally, our absoulute favorite individual event - the regatta! Head to the Damariscotta Harbor, the Lincoln Theater (where you can watch via live-feed) or tune into LCTV local Channel 7 to take in this hilarious event. Competitors in two categories - paddleboat and powerboat - will compete to be named champ. Click here for more information.
advertisement
8. The Giant Pumpkin Drop in Damariscotta - October 10th
This event is one of the most unique on the trail. Spectators can watch Atlantic Giant Pumpkins being dropped from an 180’ crane onto things such as an old local police cruiser to cars stacked on top of one another! The remnants of the pumpkins is gathered to become pig feed at a local farm, and the cars (which are already junked) are recycled as scrap metal. We only wish this was televised for all the world to see! Click here /a> for more information.
9. Bath Cemetery Tour of Famed Captains and Shipbuilders in Bath - October 12th, 22nd and 29th
Those with a love of all things spooky should make this a must-see. Head to the museum where you'll take a trolley to one of Bath’s oldest cemeteries, Oak Grove Cemetery. The cemetery boasts the most varied collections of memorial art in the town and includes many local, historic maritime families. You'll hear the histories of the shipbuilders in the area and learn all about the symbolism of the ornately done memorials. Click here for more information.
10. The Fall Family Festival at Farnsworth Art Museum - October 15th
This event is a wonderful one for families. Head to the museum sculpture garden for pumpkin carving, face painting, crafts, and live music. Then, watch the parade march down Main Street. Or, even better, participate in it by wearing costumes and masks. The day will conclude with a beautiful pumpkin lighting in the sculpture garden at sunset. Click here for more information.
Doesn't this sound like the perfect way to celebrate fall?
Get ready to feel the holiday spirit in the air as I take you on a tour of the six best displays of Christmas lights in Maine. These magical spectacles will brighten your winter nights and make your holiday season truly unforgettable. Whether you're a local looking for some seasonal sparkle or a visitor in search of the best holiday experiences, these Maine Christmas lights are sure to bring that extra dash of holiday magic to your festivities.
advertisement
1. Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay
Explore the annual Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, where over 750,000 LED lights illuminating 14 acres of central gardens create an enchanting display. Enjoy immersive trails, nature-inspired sculptures, and themed areas for a magical experience for all ages.
2. Pandora’s Winter Lights, Portland
How about Portland Christmas lights? Experience a tradition of Pandora’s Winter Lights in downtown Portland, a collaborative effort between Portland Downtown and visionary artist Pandora LaCasse. The city's streets and parks, including Congress Street, Commercial Street, Longfellow Square, Tommy's Park, Boothby Square, Lincoln Park, Pleasant Street Park, and Congress Square Park, come alive with radiant colors and captivating shapes, casting a magical glow over the winter season and becoming a beloved holiday signature of downtown Portland.
3. Sparkle Celebration, Freeport
Annually, Visit Freeport hosts the much-loved Sparkle Celebration, a cherished holiday tradition in Maine. It all kicks off with the Sparkle Celebration Parade of Lights, ending with Santa's arrival to animate the famous talking Christmas Tree. Throughout the week, enjoy festive lights, merrymaking, and special events like the Sparkle Stroll, featuring deals and door prizes, and the Sparkle Frosty Frolic with food trucks, fire pits, holiday music, and delightful gifts. I'm a fan of holiday events packed with activities, how about you?
Experience the enchantment of Northern Lights, a magical event running in Freeport, and an opportunity to see all the shimmering lights. Meet Santa, stroll through the Twinkle Light Tunnel, explore the Model Train Village, and capture festive memories at photo opportunities throughout the L.L.Bean campus. Enjoy heated benches, send letters to Santa, and discover "Holidays Around the World" on the Home Store Porch. Brush up on your curling skills at the Discovery Park Stage. Let the Northern Lights light up your holiday season.
Get into the holiday groove at Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport! Santa makes a grand entrance on a lobster boat, and there's a whole bunch of festive fun to enjoy throughout the season. With glimmering Kennebunkport Christmas light displays and a chance of snow, it's a great spot for holiday photos. Plus, you can hop on seashore trolley rides, savor some wine, and feast on lobster. The whole city comes alive with twinkling lights - it's a jolly good time.
advertisement
6. Winter Wonders, Eliot
Winter Wonders at Sandy Hill Farm in Eliot is the biggest and most creative holiday light show in New England, and it's a must-see for the holiday season. With over 2 million lights, unique displays, and improved facilities like expanded parking and a convenient concession stand, it's a top-notch event. Take a leisurely stroll along the one-mile trail through a beautiful hardwood forest and explore interactive Christmas light displays in Maine. Whether walking at your own pace or snapping pics in the immersive exhibits, you're in for a memorable and magical time. Don't miss it this winter!
Have you explored these awesome spots for the best Christmas lights in Maine? Do you consider them among some of the best in the Pine Tree State? I like the vibe of Pandora's Winter Lights – how about you? Share your thoughts and any cool recommendations!
If you're getting ready for a winter road trip to visit these holiday gems, remember to put together a useful packing list. It'll enhance your adventure!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
advertisement
Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
advertisement
If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
