There may still be leaves on the ground, but the holiday season is in full swing in the region as the Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce prepares for the annual Boothbay Lights celebrations, in partnership with local organizations and businesses. 

On Saturday, Nov. 2, volunteers gathered to help set up lights on the library lawn, and assemble the now-iconic buoy tree on Pier One. According to the Chamber’s Kjirsten Flores, the tree consists of about 800 wooden pot buoys that needed to be transported from the chamber’s basement to downtown. 

“[It’s] no easy feat,” she said. 

Volunteers were also treated to cider, cocoa, and muffins donated by Hannaford, and Pier One Pizza provided free pizza to the afternoon shift. Flores spoke positively of the turnout, saying they got an even mix of return helpers and new volunteers, with some even joining after happening to walk by. With all the help, they were on track to finish ahead of their planned 4 p.m. stopping point. “It’s been so nice to see.”

Flores says the next big event for community members to watch out for is the “Bite Before You Light” Firefighter Fundraiser at the Botanical Gardens on the 15th, and then the next day Gardens Aglow officially opens for its 10th anniversary. So, begins the “six sparkling weeks” of events—with one of the most anticipated being the Pajama Day/Early Bird Sale on Nov. 23. 

“We’ve talked to so many of our lodging partners who say they're sold out for that weekend, which is exciting,” she said.