Holiday lights on Cape Neddick Light in York, Maine

© Walter Bibikow/Alam

A holiday beacon of light

This classic scene is Cape Neddick Light, one of Maine’s most iconic lighthouses, all lit up for the holiday season. Every year on the Saturday after American Thanksgiving, hundreds gather on the mainland across from tiny Nubble Island to count down to the lighting. It is quite the holiday tradition, complete with Santa, live reindeer, and thousands of cookies baked by locals.

‘Nubble Light,’ or ‘the Nub,’ is arguably the most iconic of Maine’s 65 lighthouses. Built on more than a hectare of granite island, the Nub has been protecting sailors since 1879. There’s no better time to visit than when it’s all dressed up for the holidays. And if you miss the winter display, you can come back in July, when it's relit for summer visitors.