FREEPORT, Maine — L.L. Bean's annual "Northern Lights" holiday experience in Freeport is back this Friday, Nov. 17, with a special dedication to the Lewiston community following the Oct. 25 mass shooting.
"This year’s tree lighting will be dedicated to the City of Lewiston with the campus lit by 250,000 blue and white lights to honor the victims and their families, and to celebrate the heroes who always emerge when tragedy befalls a community," L.L. Bean stated in a news release. "Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline will initiate the countdown and light the campus in Lewiston's colors."
What to expect
With Lewiston in their hearts, community members and visitors alike can partake in some holiday magic from Nov. 17 to Dec. 31.
If you have celebrated with L.L. Bean before, you will be glad to know the "Twinkle Tunnel," giant snow globe, and adorable reindeer will be back again this year.
However, the retail giant has added a new feature this year—free access to two curling lanes to test out your athletic abilities.
As you take in the splendor of twinkling trees and holiday music, you can fight off the cold by grabbing a seat on one of the many heated benches installed at Discovery Park, thanks to L.L. Bean partners Dragon Seats and Mastercard, according to the release.
Make sure to bring the kiddos because Santa and his reindeer will be there to greet them, along with interactive displays that celebrate holiday traditions from around the globe.
Other notable events throughout the six-week celebration include:
- L.L. Bean Home for the Holidays Event: Saturday, Nov. 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- 30th Annual Freeport Sparkle Celebration: Friday, Dec. 1 through Sunday, Dec. 10
- "KidNight" New Year's Eve Celebration: Sunday, Dec. 31 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For the full schedule, click here.
The tree lighting ceremony kicks off Friday at 6:45 p.m.