Prelude 2025!

Kennebunkport historical society

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The Kennebunkport Historical Society exists to protect, preserve, and present the unique history of Kennebunkport, Maine.

The vision of the Board of Directors is to continue to care for our vast collection, share stories, offer resources and education, and provide volunteer opportunities for community members and visitors.

Your Support is Essential to our Mission!

The Kennebunkport Historical Society is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. sponsorship is tax-deductible.

Silver Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Friend Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Legacy Sponsor
Prelude Craft Fair Sponsor

Here’s How It Works:

  • Buy a Calendar for just $10 (or more—each one is an entry!) OR 15 for $100.
  • Your name will be entered into a daily drawing for the 12 days of Christmas (December 15th-24th).
  • Every day, we’ll draw one winner to receive that day’s featured prize—you could win once or even multiple times!
  • 12 Days = 12 Chances to Win!
  • All proceeds go directly to support the Kennebunkport Historical Society.
  • All prizes are valued at $100 or more. 

The more calendars you buy, the more chances you have to win—and the more you help preserve our local history!

Check out our Amazon Christmas list HERE!

The Kennebunkport Historical Society is a non-profit, member-supported organization. The Society was founded in 1952 to preserve, protect and present Kennebunkport’s social, cultural and architectural history. It has continued this scholarly tradition for more than 60 years and has greatly expanded its scope and outreach during this time.  The Society stewards multiple period buildings, an extensive clothing collection, and archives that include artifacts, photographs, books, and artwork; all of which are open to the public and available for research. We continue to honor the mission of the Society, with the goal of making its collections more accessible, more relevant, and more connected to our day-to-day lives.

Volunteering is not about the value of doing something for free; it’s about the FREEDOM to do something of VALUE! 

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

WHEN: Thursday, December 4th from 6pm-9pm

WHERE: White Columns (8 Maine Street in KPT)

Get ready to step back in time and experience the charm and elegance of White Columns.

Mark your calendars for Thursday, December 4th, 2025, as we kick off Kennebunkport’s Prelude at 8 Maine Street, Kennebunkport, ME 04046. The venue will be beautifully decorated in a white candlelight theme, creating a magical atmosphere that will make you feel like you’ve entered a Christmas wonderland.

Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season as you mingle with fellow guests, enjoy live piano music by Katherine Mayfield, indulge in delectable treats from local restaurants, and sip on festive beverages that will warm your heart.

Join us for an unforgettable night of merriment and make this holiday season truly special. We can’t wait to welcome you to this charming celebration!

Your ticket includes 1 free-drink ticket.

TICKETS: 

$75 for Non-Members

$60 for Members

WHEN: December 5th-14th

WHERE: White Columns (8 Maine Street in KPT)

Built in 1853, White Columns is one of the Kennebunkport Historical Society’s premier properties. Owned and loved by the same family for 130 years, the Victorian-era home has retained its old-world charm and still contains the home’s original furnishings.

Purchase your tour ticket online and redeem it at White Columns during any of our operating hours. Tours are available on the hour, and your ticket can be used at any time, with no need to reserve a specific date. Please note, each tour is limited to 20-25 participants, and availability is first-come, first-served. To ensure your spot, we recommend arriving 15-20 minutes before your preferred tour time. Simply print your ticket and bring it with you when you visit! Tickets will also be available in the gift shop based on availability. THESE ADVANCED TICKETS CANNOT BE USED FOR CANDLELIGHT TOURS- ONLY DAYTIME TOURS. Check tour schedule HERE.

TICKETS: $22 Per Person

WHEN: December 5th, 6th, 11th, 12th, & 13th from 4pm-8pm. December 7th-11th at 4pm.

WHERE: White Columns (8 Maine Street in KPT)

Join us for an enchanting evening at White Columns, where history comes alive amidst the flickering glow of candlelight.

Wander through the beautifully decorated rooms, adorned with festive holiday decorations, as you listen to captivating stories from the past.

As you explore, you’ll be guided by knowledgeable historians who will share intriguing tales about the house and its former inhabitants. Discover the secrets hidden within the walls and gain a deeper understanding of the history that shaped this remarkable place.

With the soft glow of candlelight illuminating your path, you’ll feel transported to another era. The warm ambiance creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones.

TICKETS: $25 Per Person

WHEN: December 5th-7th & 12th-13th at 2pm

WHERE: Starts at White Columns (8 Maine Street in KPT) – Check in at the gift shop

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of Kennebunkport’s Dock Square, all under the expert guidance of the Kennebunkport Historical Society.

Join us for an unforgettable 45-minute to 1-hour guided tour, filled with the social, cultural, and architectural marvels that define this enchanting destination. This tour covers approximately 3/4 miles of streets and charming lanes, each step revealing a new chapter in Kennebunkport’s vibrant history.

As you stroll along uneven sidewalks with gentle elevations, our knowledgeable guides will regale you with fascinating anecdotes of the individuals who once called these historic homes their own. Delve into the captivating stories behind the architecture, and gain insight into the families whose legacies still echo through the streets.

TICKETS: $25 Per Person

WHEN: December 5th, 6th, & 7th from 10am-4pm

WHERE: Under the Heated Tent at White Columns (8 Maine Street in KPT)

Join the Kennebunkport Historical Society’s for our 3rd annual Maine Made Artisan Craft Show! Get ready to immerse yourself in a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship!

Indulge your senses as you explore a diverse collection of unique and handcrafted treasures. Discover an array of exquisite jewelry, mesmerizing paintings, intricate crafts, and so much more.

Our talented artisans from Maine will showcase their finest creations, each piece reflecting their passion and expertise.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a collector, or simply seeking inspiration, this event offers something for everyone. Engage with the artists, learn about their techniques, and gain insight into their creative processes.

It’s a golden opportunity to support local artisans and take-home one-of-a-kind pieces that tell a story.

Free to the General Public. We can’t wait to see you there!

WHEN: December 5th & 6th from 5:30pm-8:00pm

WHERE: Under the Heated Tent at White Columns (8 Maine Street in KPT)

Join the Kennebunkport Historical Society for our 3rd Annual Maine Made Artisan Craft Fair — now with a special Christmas Candlelight / After Dark edition!

For three years, our craft fair has been a beloved tradition from 10am–4pm. This year, we’re bringing something new: an evening marketplace during our Candlelight Tour hours, featuring fresh vendors and unique treasures you won’t want to miss.

Explore an array of handcrafted works — from jewelry and fine art to one-of-a-kind décor and gifts — all made with passion by talented Maine artisans. Meet the makers, learn their stories, and find the perfect piece to take home.

Free to the General Public. We can’t wait to see you there!

WHEN: December 6th & 13th from 10am-3pm

WHERE: The Town House School (135 North St. in KPT)

Come join us for a fun-filled day of cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus!

Get into the festive spirit and unleash your creativity as you decorate delicious cookies alongside Mrs. Claus herself! Ticket price of $15 is for one person (cookies, cookie boxes, decorating materials & story time with Mrs. Claus).

Bring your family and friends and enjoy a morning of laughter, holiday music, and sweet treats. Mrs. Claus will guide you through various decorating techniques, providing tips and tricks along the way, and read Christmas stories! You’ll have the chance to create your own edible masterpieces using an array of colorful icings, sprinkles, and other festive decorations.

Tickets are sold in 30 minute increments. Adult supervision required.

TICKETS: $15 Per Child

WHEN: December 10th at 5pm

WHERE: The Town House School (135 North St. in KPT)

Bassist John Kumnick, keyboardist Mark Gunter, and guitarist Dana Pearson are back for their fifth annual Mid-Week Music Christmas Show. They’re sure to don their finest yuletide duds to deliver musical joy to those in Kennebunkport to enjoy Prelude, with an eclectic mix of Christmas songs, old and new, religious and secular.

TICKETS: $21 for Non-Members

$18 for Members

WHEN: December 11th at 6pm

WHERE: The Town House School (135 North St. in KPT)

Join us for a fun and creative evening of wreath making! Get into the festive spirit and unleash your inner artist as we guide you through the process of creating beautiful wreaths. This event is the perfect opportunity to relax, socialize, and tap into your creativity.

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, this event is suitable for everyone.

We’ll provide all the necessary materials, including a variety of foliage, ribbons, and embellishments. Our experienced instructors will be there to offer guidance and share tips and tricks to help you create a wreath that will impress.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to bond with friends, meet new people, and take home a stunning wreath to adorn your door or give as a thoughtful gift. Grab your friends and join us for a memorable Girl’s Night Out!

Reservations are required by December 5th, 2025. This event is 21 & Up (BYOB). Ticket price includes materials.

TICKETS: $50 Per Person

WHEN: December 14th from 1pm-4pm

WHERE: White Columns (8 Maine St. in KPT)