Dear Editor:

Now that the holidays are over, I just wanted to say thank you to the Boothbay Harbor community. This past Christmas and New Year’s felt so well done, and it didn’t go unnoticed.

My husband and I are from Newburyport, Massachusetts and made several day trips -- and one overnight -- up to Boothbay Harbor over the holidays. This was my first time visiting Boothbay Harbor this time of year, and all I can say is: what a town!

Our first visit was to see the Lighted Boat Parade. What a cool tradition! We watched the show from the Whale’s Tale, which had a great view of the harbor. To top it off, the fireworks afterward were as good as any Fourth of July show I’ve seen.

We came back the following week for another day trip that included shopping around town and an evening at Gardens Aglow. Seeing the gardens lit up with thousands of Christmas lights was an incredible experience and one of the highlights of my year. I also appreciated how many local businesses were lit up for the season -- shops like Janson’s Clothing, Sherman’s Bookstore, Gimbel & Sons, and Smiling Cow -- which added so much to the Christmas feel downtown and made the overall atmosphere feel warm and alive.

When we came back again for New Year’s Eve, the town was still just as busy! We stayed overnight at the Bayside Inn, with such lovely hosts. We went back to the Whale’s Tale for dinner and stayed all the way until midnight to watch the lighted tuna drop into the harbor -- what a fun and unique way to ring in the new year!

But what stood out most, more than the shining lights, good food, and cozy storefronts, was the sense of community. I’m sure there was an army of volunteers, workers, and organizers who deserve three cheers. It’s that Christmas spirit that makes Boothbay Harbor feel so welcoming to visitors.

Can’t wait for next year’s!

Holly Bough

Newburyport, Massachusetts