It's that time of the year...holiday lights ablaze!  When I was a kid it seemed more people decorated and put up lights. Sometimes entire neighborhoods and streets would be lit up and both kids and adults would simple swoon at the sight of such a display!

There are still some diehards but there is no question that the sheer volume of people who decorate with lights outside has somewhat dwindled. Now that's not to say that there is no great light displays. It's just that many are now business focused, or must be searched out to find those gems.

Here's a few of the best that I know of....

1. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay Harbor

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens’ Gardens Aglow event is the largest holiday light display in the state and it's growing each year. Currently over 14 acres illuminated with more than 500,000 colorful lights. Dress warm and grab a hot cocoa!

2. LL Bean, Freeport

Bottom line...Freeport goes all out for Christmas with L.L.Bean’s Northern Lights Celebration that runs through December 31st. Take a jaunt through Discovery Forest, featuring more than 600  trees that are bursting with festive lights. The whole town is a aglow this time of year, and it's all FREE!

3. Portland

The whole city is a great choice to spy lights and lanterns... the Old Port Area especially beginning with Monument Square hosting the huge lit tree for all to enjoy. For a truly unforgettable experience check out the Portland Boat Parade of Lights right alongside Portland Harbor and watch the splendidly decorated boats sail by or If you can get in before it sells out Casco Bay Lines has a cruise to see the illuminated boats up close.

4. Lobster Trap Tree, Rockland

Rockland captures the true spirit of Christmas in Maine with its lobster trap tree. The whole downtown is decorated with lights that line the streets. Be sure to stop by the Farnsworth Museum buildings for a true festive sight.

5. Dr. Zee's Christmas Lights & Music Show, Augusta

If you like your illuminated holiday displays on the vibrant and set to music...you will surely love this little gem located locally at 132 State Street, right here in Augusta. The good doctor had been adding and tweaking this amazing display for years. This year is no exception. Drive by, tune in, and enjoy!

Where are some great displays you are aware of?

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