As temperatures drop and the daylight hours wane, many coastal towns in Maine close their doors.
Cheerful signs left on their darkened doors read, "See you in May!"
In contrast are the signs in the windows of Boothbay Harbor shops, which read "See you at Early Bird!" in reference to the town's annual celebration of winter's arrival.
The Early Bird Sale and Pajama Party serve as an unofficial kickoff of the holiday season in Boothbay Harbor. Each year, on the Saturday before the Thursday of Thanksgiving, the shops of this summertime hot spot offer sales and special refreshments from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. In addition to universal reductions on merchandise, many stores give additional discounts to shoppers wearing pajamas and sleepwear.
For those less interested in shopping in pajamas, the area boasts an array of activities both indoors and outside.
More than 20 art studios and galleries are open year-round for visitors to enjoy. Exhibited art forms range from kiln-fired glass to woodblock prints to watercolor paintings.
People might also choose to visit Boothbay Harbor for a night of dining and theater.
During the fall and winter, dining choices are available at more than 15 restaurants and include Thai cuisine, seafood, fine dining, and pub food.
The Opera House at Boothbay Harbor plans events throughout the year, including the 2005 Holiday Festival of Trees in December, and The Overboard Players' presentation of The Audition on November 26 and 27.
Weather permitting, the Boothbay Region Land Trust offers spectacular walking and hiking trails with beautiful views of the ocean and forest wildlife. Visitors of the area can enjoy 1,300 acres of preserved land in various settings, but all equal in their beauty.
The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens also provide a unique experience of Maine flora in a controlled setting. The organization offers classes and lectures throughout the year.
Because of the unpredictability of the weather during the late fall and winter, Boothbay Harbor's chamber of commerce works hard to attract visitors to an area that is traditionally a "summer" town.
Following the Early Bird Sale, the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony occurs on November 26.
The annual Harbor Lights occurs on December 3, featuring traditional Christmas celebrations, the climax of which is the less traditional?but still inspirational and beautiful?lighted boat parade.
Townspeople testify that the reflection of Christmas lights on the ocean is the most beautiful part of the holiday season.
As with the Lighted Boat Parade, waning daylight only serves to enhance the atmosphere in Boothbay Harbor, encouraging activity and enjoyment of the beautiful late fall season in Down East Maine.