Hey listeners, welcome to your friendly guide for what to do in Portland, Maine, on this festive Christmas Eve and through the rest of the week. It's December 24th, and the holiday magic is lighting up our city with music, lights, and cozy vibes perfect for making memories with family and friends.

Kick off today with the must-see Christmas with Kennerley at Merrill Auditorium on Myrtle Street. PortTIX reports this heartwarming show stars renowned organist James Kennerley, the Kotzschmar Brass and Percussion, guest soloists, and local choirs delivering beloved carols in the Home for the Holidays style. It's a two-hour family delight starting at 7 p.m., with tickets from $30 to $71 before fees—grab yours quick for an enchanting evening in our downtown Arts District gem, right near great spots for a pre-show bite.

If you're up for dancing into the night, head to Flask Lounge in the West End for their Christmas Yankee Swap and Open Decks from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. This intimate 100-person spot is Portland's go-to for lively tunes, emerging DJs, and holiday fun—perfect for swapping gifts and grooving.

Tomorrow, Christmas Day, keep the cheer going with a short drive to Freeport for L.L.Bean's Northern Lights Holiday Display, wrapping up its final day. Z1073 says the store and grounds transform into a winter wonderland with free daily projection shows every 30 minutes from 4 to 8 p.m., fire pits and heated seats from 1 to 7 p.m., Letters to Santa in the big red mailbox, and festive photo ops under dazzling lights and trees. It's a visual spectacle for all ages, complete with s'mores at kids' fireside stories if you catch a Wednesday slot.

Through the weekend, catch live music highlights from the Portland Old Port guide, featuring post-holiday favorites, tribute nights, and a stacked lineup at the State Theatre December 24th to 30th—think high-energy shows to shake off any holiday haze. Note the citywide parking ban lifted this morning after last night's snow, per Portland Parks and Rec, so streets are clear for easy exploring.

Whether you're bundling up for auditorium anthems, swapping at Flask, or chasing lights at L.L.Bean, Portland's got that cozy Maine spirit alive today and beyond. Bundle up, spread joy, and dive in.

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This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI