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10th Annual Parade of Lights & Fireworks in Bucksport, Maine (2025) – Holiday Parade, Waterfront Fireworks & Family Fun

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • 4 hours ago
  • 4 min read


10th Annual Parade of Lights & Fireworks in Bucksport, Maine (2025) – Holiday Parade, Waterfront Fireworks & Family Fun

10th Annual Parade of Lights & Fireworks in Bucksport, Maine (2025 Guide)

A Magical Holiday Celebration on Maine’s Penobscot River

The holiday season in Maine sparkles a little brighter in Bucksport, thanks to one of the state’s most beloved small-town Christmas traditions—the 10th Annual Parade of Lights & Fireworks in Bucksport, is returning Saturday, December 13, 2025. This family-friendly winter celebration brings glowing floats, festive music, handcrafted ornaments, hot treats, and a spectacular fireworks finale over the Penobscot River, attracting visitors from across Hancock County and beyond.


If you're searching for a charming New England Christmas event filled with community warmth, twinkling lights, and waterfront beauty, Bucksport’s Parade of Lights is a must-experience.


⭐ Event Overview

📅 Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025

🕕 Parade Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

🎆 Fireworks: 7:15 PM

💲 Price: FREE

📍 Location: Town of BucksportAddress: 50 Main St., Bucksport, ME 04416

📞 Phone: (207) 469-7368

🌐 Website: https://bucksport.gov/ (or relevant town events page if changed)📧 Email: info@bucksport.gov (or event contact email if preferred)


🎄 What to Expect at the 2025 Bucksport Parade of Lights & Fireworks


🎉 Glowing Holiday Parade (6:00 PM)

The parade launches from the former Verso Paper Mill Parking Lot, rolling through downtown Buckport with dazzling floats, sparkling Christmas lights, themed characters, and festive music. Local businesses, organizations, and community groups compete to create the brightest and most creative displays.


Parade Route Highlights:

  • Former Verso Paper Mill Parking Lot

  • Across Franklin Street

  • Down Mill Street

  • Across Main Street

  • Returning to the mill parking area


Expect plenty of holiday magic—perfect for families, photographers, and anyone who loves Christmas charm.


🔥 S’mores Lounge & Holiday Crafts on the Waterfront

After the parade, head to the Bucksport Waterfront Walkway near the gazebo for warm, family-friendly festivities:


🍫 S’mores Lounge

Toast marshmallows while enjoying river views and community cheer.


🎨 Ornament Making Station

Create a take-home keepsake to remember your holiday trip to Bucksport.


🎆 Fireworks Over the Penobscot River (7:15 PM)

A showstopping fireworks display lights up the sky above the Penobscot River at 7:15 PM, sponsored by the Friends of Fort Knox.


Watch the fireworks from:

  • Fort Knox State Park

  • Bucksport Waterfront Walkway

  • Downtown Main Street

  • Your favorite riverfront viewpoint


Few towns offer such a stunning waterfront backdrop—this is one of Maine’s most picturesque holiday firework events.


❄️ Why You’ll Love This Event

Visitors come from across Maine for:


  • Family-friendly holiday fun

  • A walkable, charming downtown decorated for the season

  • Great photo spots and waterfront views

  • Small-town Christmas warmth

  • A FREE holiday event that feels big and magical


Perfect for couples, families, seniors, and holiday travelers exploring Downeast Maine.


🎁 Planning Tips for 2025

✔ Arrive early

Parking fills quickly, especially downtown.

✔ Dress warm

Riverfront viewing can be breezy—bring gloves, hats, and layers.

✔ Support local businesses

Enjoy a meal, shop Main Street boutiques, or grab a holiday treat.

✔ Bring a camera

The glowing floats and waterfront fireworks make incredible holiday photos.


🌟 Nearby Attractions to Explore

Make a festive weekend out of your trip!

  • Fort Knox State Historic Site – iconic granite fort with winter views

  • Penobscot Narrows Bridge & Observatory – stunning 360° panoramas

  • Downtown Bucksport Shops & Eateries – warm up with local dining

  • Beautiful Riverwalk Paths – great for winter strolls


📌 Event Contact & Resources

Town of Bucksport

📍 50 Main St., Bucksport, ME 04416

📞 (207) 469-7368

🌐 Website: https://bucksport.gov


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure

Rockwood Maine Lodging • Moosehead Lake Cabin Rentals


Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:

  • Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake

  • 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7

  • Free WiFi & TV

  • Backup Generator

  • Easy driveway dual access for trailers, boats, ATVs, & snowmobiles

  • Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails

  • Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports

  • Perfect home base for skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, and wildlife watching


Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in Moose River, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!


Looking at a moose at the top of Mt Kineo from Moose River








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