Biddeford, like many Maine towns and cities, is preparing for the holidays – including a downtown festival Dec. 2. Here is a photo of folks enjoying the event in 2021. Heart of Biddeford Photo
BIDDEFORD — From Small Business Saturday on Nov. 26 to the Downtown Holiday Festival plus a musical at City Theater Dec. 2, and more events later in the month, Biddeford’s got it covered.
Heart of Biddeford is hosting a free scavenger hunt, where participants complete challenges throughout the downtown while visiting retail shops with holiday promotions on Small Business Saturday. To participate, shoppers should download the EventZee app. Then, on Nov. 26, enter the code SMALLBIZBIDD to play. Those who top the Leader Board will receive one of four $60 gift cards, organizers said.
The following week, the whole community is invited to get into the spirit of the season with the Downtown Holiday Festival on Friday, Dec. 2, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
It promises to be a fun evening, said Delilah Poupore of Heart of Biddeford, the sponsoring organization.
The evening will feature a visit from that jolly old elf Santa, a tree lighting, Christmas carols and fun holiday performances and games in City Square next to City Hall on Adams Street.
People may roast marshmallows on an open fire with the Biddeford Recreation Department or enjoy free desserts from around the world prepared by the Biddeford Cultural and Heritage Center, Poupore said. The Salvation Army will bring their brass band to perform carols, and there will be traditional cookies from Reilly’s Bakery, which kids of all ages can decorate in City Square.
“In Biddeford, everything’s a little more fun because of how many folks pitch in to make events like this exciting,” said Poupore.
Santa will arrive by 6 p.m., then stick around for free photos courtesy of McKenney Photography. Horse and wagon rides are on the schedule too, and a scavenger hunt in City Square — along with a few surprises.
A map of the downtown will be provided for those who wish to stop by Engine’s Maker’s Market and other retail shops.
As well, Poupore said tickets are available for City Theater’s “Christmas My Way: A Sinatra Bash,” which opens on Dec. 2. Complete with 40 swinging hits, nothing will be silent on this night as four singers serve up cool versions of Sinatra standards and holiday favorites. Tickets are available on the City Theater website and box office for $20.
Later in the month, there will be a lighting of the Menorah, beginning Dec. 18, said Poupore, with further details to be announced.
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