The King's Port Inn wants to wish everybody a happy Christmas prelude weekend! Christmas Prelude started in Kennebunkport in 1982, and has since grown into one of the most popular times of the year. It is a charming two weekend event which features a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, door to door Christmas caroling, craft shows, and a visit from old Saint Nick!
The whole town is decked out in bright lights, bows and boughs to welcome the holiday season. The town really transforms itself into a century old village with the old fashioned spirit of the holiday and the joy of giving. Like a Norman Rockwell scene, the town conjures up Christmas' of the past and the magic of the true holiday spirit. In 2009, HGTV featured Prelude as the "#2 Christmas town in America". Festivities also extend to downtown Kennebunk and to the fishing village of Cape Porpoise where locals construct a Christmas Tree entirely out of Lobster Traps!
Here is a list of the signature events:
Tree Lighting Ceremony in Dock Square: On Friday, December 2nd, at 5:30 pm the Tree Lighting Ceremony in Dock Square officially begins the season. Join in Christmas caroling with the Kennebunk High School Chamber Choir, directed by Nathan Menifield. This event has been known to attract former first ladies of the U.S.
Annual Hat Parade: The 11th Annual Hat Parade kicks off on Saturday, December 3rd, at 3:00 pm. A parade of holiday hats for children and adults led by the Patriot fife and Drum Duo. Show off your handmade or store bought creations. All hat wearers are welcome! The parade starts in Dock Square and goes over the bridge to Best of Everything where prizes will be awarded.
Christmas Candlelight Caroling at the Franciscan Monastery: On Saturday, December 3rd, at 6:30 pm join the Franciscans at Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto on the grounds of St. Anthony's Monastery for the story of the birth of Jesus interspersed with Christmas songs by candlelight. Presented by St. Anthony's Monastery and the Secular Franciscan Order.
Santa Arrives by Lobster Boat: On Sunday, December 4th, at 2:00 pm see old Saint Nick himself arrive by lobster boat. After docking his boat at David's KPT on Ocean Avenue, follow Santa and his Lobster Elves through Dock Square to the Community House on Temple Street for photos. There may be a little wait while all children and families have their special time with Santa.
Unfortunately, the King's Port Inn is booked up for the first prelude weekend. We are happy and thankful for our many returning guests that come back every year for the prelude. Some as long as 20 years! We do, however, have a sister property called the Lodge at Turbat's Creek. The Lodge has availability for the first prelude for $159 a night. Their phone number is 1-877-594-5634.
Have a happy Christmas Prelude Weekend!
The King's Port Inn
