Event Information
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8th
Early Bird Shopping
Where: Businesses throughout Downtown Rockland
Time: 7:00-10:00 AM
Discounts and special deals from participating businesses!
More info here
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28th
Santa’s Arrival
Where: Middle Pier
Time: 12:00 PM
Santa will arrive at Middle Pier via a Coast Guard boat
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Where: Park St. and Main St.
Time: 12:15 PM
Santa, accompanied by City officials, will officially declare Downtown Rockland “Open for the Holidays.”
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Where: Mildred Merrill Park
Time:6:00 PM (Holiday music will begin at 5:00 PM)
The lighting of the Christmas tree at Mildred Merrill Park, with holiday music and refreshments for attendees
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29th
Small Business Saturday
Where: Businesses throughout Downtown
Time: Ongoing throughout the day
Special promotions in downtown shops
Santa’s Workshop
Where: Mildred Merrill Park
Time: 10:00 AM
Come and meet Santa in his workshop!
Horse and Carriage Rides
Where: Elm St.
Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Free Horse and carriage rides for children and families
Parade of Lights
Where: Starts at Ferry Terminal
Time: 6:00 PM
The annual parade begins at the Ferry Terminal and proceeds south down Main Street with floats from local businesses and organizations
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30th
Breakfast with Santa
Where: Rockland Elks Lodge, 210 Rankin St.
When: 7:30-9:30 AM
A family-friendly breakfast event features photos with Santa and art-making activities
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28-SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21
ROCKLocal & WIN!
Weekly drawings Monday, 12/1, 12/8, 12/15, and 12/22
Sponsor: Winifred & Evalyn
PRIOR TO DECEMBER 22nd
Rockland Community Menorah Erection and Lighting Celebration
Where: Mildred Merrill Park
When: TBA
The Rockland Community Menorah will be erected in advance of the lighting celebration.
All are invited!
Interested in volunteering for the Festival of Lights?
Festival of Lights Parade
Rockland Festival of Lights Parade: A Spectacular Display of Holiday Magic
Every year, as the festive season kicks off in Rockland, the streets come alive with a magnificent spectacle known as the Rockland Festival of Lights Parade.
This much-anticipated event captures the essence of the holiday spirit and enchants both locals and visitors alike. As the sun sets and darkness fills the sky, the streets are illuminated by a dazzling array of lights, transforming the town into a breathtaking wonderland.
The Rockland Festival of Lights Parade boasts a vibrant procession of enchanting floats and intricately decorated vehicles. Each entry exudes creativity and imagination as they vie for the title of "Best in Show." From whimsical characters and iconic holiday scenes to sparkling reindeer and larger-than-life ornaments, the parade transports spectators into a world of pure magic and wonder. As the floats glide through the streets, synchronized music fills the air, filling hearts with joy and setting the stage for an unforgettable evening of celebration.
At the Rockland Festival of Lights Parade, the magic of the season comes to life, leaving an indelible mark on each attendee's heart.
Interested in participating in the parade?