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36th Annual Holiday Light Parade in Presque Isle 2025: Maine’s Holiday Magic Returns

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • Nov 18, 2025
  • 4 min read


36th Annual Holiday Light Parade in Presque Isle, Maine

36th Annual Holiday Light Parade in Presque Isle 2025: Maine’s Holiday Magic Returns

A Beloved County Tradition Returns December 6, 2025

Presque Isle, Maine is set to shine brighter than ever as the 36th Annual Holiday Light Parade rolls down Main Street on Saturday, December 6, 2025, beginning at 6:00 PM. Organized by the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce, this cherished event draws thousands of visitors each year and marks the official kickoff to the Aroostook County holiday season.


Families, spectators, local businesses, and community groups gather along Main Street to experience a sparkling procession of dazzling floats, festive music, twinkling lights, and the treasured arrival of Santa Claus himself.


📅 Event Date & Location

Saturday, December 6, 2025✨ Parade begins at 6:00 PM

📍 Main Street, Presque Isle, Maine

Float Line-Up: 4:30 PM at the UMPI CampusRoute Ends: North Street Plaza Entrance

Registration Link:


🎄 A Magical Holiday Tradition

Each year, the Holiday Light Parade brings together businesses, nonprofits, youth groups, and civic organizations to craft illuminated floats that celebrate community pride and the spirit of the season.

The parade is free to attend, family-friendly, and perfect for anyone looking to soak in the holiday cheer with lights, music, and festive displays.


For more than three decades, this parade has remained one of the largest and most beloved winter celebrations in Aroostook County.


🎅 Santa Claus Has Arrived!

One of the most iconic moments of the event is the arrival of Santa on the official Chamber float.


🎁 Important Note:

The Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce maintains a long-standing tradition —🛑 No additional Santas are allowed on other floats, as the Chamber float features the one and only official parade Santa.


🚫 Parade Rules & Entry Guidelines

To ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all, parade participants must follow these guidelines:


  • ❄️ No candy throwing

  • 🎅 Only one official Santa (on the Chamber float)

  • 🚚 Headlights must be turned off during the parade

  • 🪧 All floats must display a clearly visible driver’s-side sign with the organization’s name

  • 🎶 Music is strongly encouraged to enhance the festive atmosphere

  • 📝 Registration is required for entries to be judged — but floats do not need to be completely finished at the time of sign-up

  • 💲 There is no fee to enter a float


🏆 Parade Judging Categories

All floats passing the Reviewing Stand on Main Street are eligible for the following awards:


  • Parade Champion

  • Best Business

  • Best Non-Profit

  • Best General Float

  • Best Youth Float


Create your most creative, colorful, and holiday-themed display for a chance to take home top honors!


🌟 Why You Should Attend

Whether you're a local resident, a weekend visitor, or traveling to Maine for the holiday season, the Holiday Light Parade is the perfect way to:

  • Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season

  • Enjoy festive fun with friends and family

  • Support local organizations and businesses

  • Experience a tradition unique to Presque Isle and Aroostook County


Come early to grab a great viewing spot and enjoy the warm, small-town hospitality that makes Presque Isle shine.


📞 Event Contact Information

Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce

📍 3 Houlton Road, Presque Isle, ME 04769

📞 (207) 764-6561


🌟 Nearby Featured Events

Make a weekend of it! Don’t miss other seasonal festivities hosted by the Chamber:


What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions

Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.

Want more insider tips? Discover top recommendations at Moose River Lookout, your go-to resource for:

  • 🛶 Boating & paddling routes

  • 🎣 Fishing hotspots

  • 🏕️ Wilderness camping sites

  • 🥾 Trail maps for hiking & nature walks

  • 🍽️ Local dining & shopping recommendations


  • 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

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 access for trailers & ATVs

  • Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails

  • Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports

Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in the 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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