The little coastal town of Boothbay Harbor is lit up with thousands of lights as merchants are gearing up for the holiday season. The Boothbay Festival of Lights started on Nov. 18 and will continue through Dec. 31. Thanks to Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, up to 50,000 visitors are expected to visit the area over the Christmas season.

Men's Night, or Family Night, as it is sometimes called, is one of the highlights of the shopping season in Boothbay Harbor. On Wednesday, Dec. 14, shops will be open until 9 p.m., and this year more of them than ever will be participating. Inns, bed and breakfasts and restaurants have remained opened longer than usual for the Boothbay Festival of Lights.

On this special night, shops will be offering some great deals, with some discounts up to 45 percent off, door prizes and free gift wrapping. Christmas carols will be playing in the center of town, and there will be lots of Christmas cheer in the form of food and drinks at several restaurants. The streets will be bustling with shoppers.

Make it a night to remember. Shop local with your friends, family and loved ones. Come into Boothbay Harbor on Dec. 14 and eat, shop, and make merry. The town will be full of lights, carols and good cheer.

Men’s Night is sponsored by the Boothbay Register and local merchants.