The tradition of Christmas in Caribou returns as the Aroostook's signature holiday festival, offering multiple days of family fun, community spirit, and festive traditions across downtown Caribou. From free activities for kids to adults-only holiday cheer, classic Christmas movies, charitable giving, and the beloved decorating contest, this year’s celebration is packed with ways to ring in the season. The City of Caribou has more holiday lights and decorated trees, poles, and buildings than anywhere else in the region - it's what makes the Christmas season so bright here!
Free Cookie Decorating at Ruska Coffee Co. (7AM–4PM)
Drop in during business hours for a free holiday cookie decorating activity. No purchase required; supplies available while they last.
Big Bang Theater – Free Christmas Movies (11AM)
Enjoy one of four classic holiday films at no cost at the Big Bang Theater on Sweden Street.
Holiday Portraits with D. Hanson Photography (10AM–1PM)
Capture the season with professional holiday photos at Rejuvenate Health & Med Spa (24 Sweden Street, upstairs). Digital images available for $10 each or $25 for three.
21+ Christmas in Caribou: A Night Under the Lights at Lyndon Square (6PM–9PM)
Adults are invited to a festive evening featuring drinks from Northern Maine Brewing, live music, delicious food, ice carving by Tim Pierce, chestnut roasting, and adult-only holiday activities—plus a Christmas Pottery Popup with Create It Up North.
• $10 cover charge (CASH ONLY) includes one drink and a keepsake mug
• Additional beverages $5 each (CASH ONLY)
• Valid photo ID required for entry
Pieces for the pottery popup are limited; contact Create It Up North to reserve.
Sleigh Rides at Ruska Coffee
Celebrate Small Business Saturday with a cozy sleigh ride experience.
Caribou Public Library Raffle Drawing (after the Christmas Market)
Tickets are available at the library or at the Bookmobile at the Christmas Market (10AM–2PM).
Charitable Giving Trees (all day)
Choose a tag and donate items supporting AMHC, Age Friendly Caribou, Bread of Life Soup Kitchen, and ACAP. Drop off donations at the Caribou Public Library or directly with the listed agency.
Big Bang Theater – Free Christmas Movies (11AM)
Another day of free Christmas classics at the Sweden Street theater.
Caribou Christmas Market & CFAD Holiday Wreaths (10AM–5PM)
Shop local at the Christmas Market in Lyndon Square. Caribou Fire & Ambulance will be selling holiday wreaths on site; preorder options are available online.
Holiday Portraits with D. Hanson Photography (10AM–1PM)
Second session for family holiday portraits at Rejuvenate Health & Med Spa.
Charitable Giving Trees
Continue spreading Christmas kindness by selecting donation tags benefiting local organizations.
Big Bang Theater – Free Christmas Movies (11AM)
Enjoy another round of free Christmas classics on Sweden Street.
Caribou’s annual decorating contest returns with Traditional, Modern, Whimsical, and Rustic categories. Entry is free for all Caribou homes and businesses.
• Registration deadline: December 6, 2025
• Voting period: December 6–14, 2025 at christmasincaribou.com
• Winners announced: December 15, 2025
Participants must submit a photo at entry and ensure decorations are visible from the road. Addresses of participants will be made public to allow community viewing and voting.
Aroostook County hosts a variety of vibrant events throughout the year. From the world-renowned Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race in winter to the lively Northern Maine Fair in summer, there's always something exciting happening. Other highlights include the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest, Potato Blossom Festival, and the Scandinavian Houlton Arts and Crafts Fair. These events celebrate the region's culture, heritage, and natural beauty, offering unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.
Places to go, things to see and what to do—all neatly laid out. Begin your Aroostook adventure with the official travel guide to ensure the only surprises during your trip are the good ones.
Take us on your Aroostook adventure and mark new trails when you share #VisitAroostook on your shots and videos. No one explores quite like you!
