Even though the snow last week was short-lived for us in southern Maine (and the following rain storms haven’t helped), we’re still getting in the holiday spirit! Yard displays across the state are catching the eye of passers-by, wreaths and bows adorn doors and telephone poles up and down the coast, and there’s more than one lobster-buoy Christmas tree to visit and appreciate. Here’s our roundup for this (holiday-themed) weekend in Maine: 

Something to Do: 

After being closed for the holiday season last year, the Victoria Mansion in Portland has reopened for tours of the historic property as a part of Christmas at Victoria Mansion! Take a peek into the grandeur of the Victorian era, brought to life by florists, designers, and artists from around the state. Be sure to grab your tickets quickly—they sell out fast! There’s limited availability for this Saturday and Sunday, but Friday still has plenty of time slots open, or you can plan ahead for next week. 

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays until December 31
Where: 109 Danforth St., Portland

Something to Eat: 

The countdown to Christmas is on, which means it’s Christmas cookie time! Get in on the action and pre-order cookies and other holiday goodies from Tandem Coffee in Portland. For extra holiday cheer, order the holiday cookie box for $50, which contains a mixture of the Tandem team’s personal favorite holiday treats. Pick up for pre-orders will be on Friday, December 24, or show up in person to buy one from the counter. 

Where: 742 Congress St., Portland

Somewhere to Go:

’Tis the season for elaborate light displays! This weekend, visit Boothbay to see Gardens Aglow, a drive-through light show at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Tickets sell out quickly (the 8:30 p.m. show on Sunday is still open—but not for long), so be sure to purchase ASAP! 

When: 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays until January 1
Where: 105 Botanical Gardens Dr., Boothbay

Something to Drink: 

Ready for a pick-me-up to get you through the midweek slump? Check out Dirty Dove, a new bar in Portland founded by Joe Fournier (of A&C Grocery) and Michael Gatlin (owner and bartender of Owl and Whale) that opened today! With creative, irreverently named cocktails like the Intangible Climax with Chartreuse and Fernet Branca, and Ungetenoughable with mint-infused tequila, the bar will provide holiday cheer to get you through your shopping trips. 

When: Thursdays through Mondays
Where: 229 Congress St., Portland  

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