2020-2021 Visitor's Guide

D uring the quieter season of the year, Greater Portland can be both tranquil and exhilarating. While dining, professional sports, and many activities move indoors, Portland’s metro area also heads outdoors to enjoy festivals, ice bars, winter sports, and holiday merriment. Portland Symphony Orchestra’s concert series, the Magic of Christmas , anchors a season of classical and pop music held in Merrill Auditorium— Portland’s grand 1912 concert hall—with special

shows designed to engage a new generation of young patrons. The historic Kotzschmar Organ, one of the most celebrated pipe organs in the world, is the crown jewel in the city’s auditorium where Portland Ovations brings Broadway shows and national headliners to the stage. Portland Ballet, Maine State Ballet, and Portland Stage present professional dance and theater performances throughout the winter season, at prices well below those in other cities. Combine a night at a James Beard award-winning restaurant with a show or live music at the intimate Port City Music Hall or Art Deco-style State Theatre. Art, history, and decor intersect at opulent Victoria Mansion, dressed up by a team of floral designers for the holidays. Other museum homes often open for special holiday tours. Portland Museum of Art, the Institute of Contemporary Art, and numerous other galleries offer welcoming interior spaces to explore and learn from throughout the holidays and into the spring. From Portland to Freeport, and Gorham to Boothbay, festive lights, activities, and outdoor fun dominate the landscape. “Merry Madness” is Portland Downtown’s kick-off to the holiday season—prowl the night with wine glass in hand, visiting local shops for special gifts. Freeport’s “Sparkle” weekend, Boothbay’s “Gardens Aglow,” and a nautical “Parade of Lights” on Casco Bay ensure revelers get out and about. Whether enjoying the warm glow of friends at an outdoor tabletop fire pit, or a romantic dinner at a celebrated chef’s table indoors, you’ll enjoy the region’s renowned culinary scene with less of a crowd. World-class arts and entertainment, stress-free shopping, fabulous food—for a surprisingly good getaway, let us show you how we do winter!

Winter is a wonderful time to Wine-n-Dine in Bon Appétit ’s ‘Restaurant City of the Year.’

For a full schedule of special winter events that make Maine shine, go to visitportland.com/blog and select “Winter Fun Activities”

PHOTOS, FROM LEFT: COREY TEMPLETON; COURTESY CARNAVALMAINE/TIM GREENWAY; COREY TEMPLTON

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