The shortest day of the year, also known as the winter solstice, is Sunday. Maine ranks among five states with the shortest winter daylight, with about 8.5 hours. Averaging day length across the year, Maine is also near the bottom, with roughly 11.5 hours, second only to Alaska.
Day length varies strongly with latitude, even within Maine. On Sunday, Fort Kent will see almost a half hour less daylight than Portland, with 8 hours, 28 minutes compared with 8 hours, 56 minutes.
Why acknowledge the solstice?
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The sun sets over West Grand Lake, marking the end of an early winter day. Credit: Susan Bard / BDN
The winter solstice serves as both a scientific marker of Earth’s orbit and a cultural symbol of the cycle of darkness and light. It is a time to look forward to longer days and opportunities for outdoor recreation, including winter-specific activities.
Watch the sunrise or sunsetThe sun rises over Pocomoonshine Lake in Down East Maine, casting a golden glow across the winter landscape. Credit: Susan Bard / BDN
With such a short day, take time to appreciate the daylight we do have. Head to a scenic spot near Bangor, such as Black Cap Mountain or the Waterfront, or for a longer drive, visit Bass Harbor Head Light in Acadia National Park or Mount Battie in Camden. Watch the sun rise or set over the winter landscape. Cross-country ski or snowshoe these areas to make the outing even more exciting. Rent equipment if needed, and carry a headlamp. Don’t let the waning light shorten your plans.
Visit holiday-themed lights
The Stillwater River Trail in Orono features a free light display with tunnels and wrapped trees, open nightly from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Holiday lights line the Stillwater River Trail in Orono, creating a festive winter display. Credit: Susan Bard / BDN
For those willing to travel farther, the Gardens Aglow display at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay lights up nature-themed paths with thousands of beautiful lights.
L.L. Bean in Freeport is always decorated with lights and holiday music, and the Cape Neddick Light in York has lights outlining its tower, keeper’s house and surrounding buildings.
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Evening walkers are drawn to the Stillwater River Trail in Orono, lit by festive holiday lights. Credit: Susan Bard / BDN
Make winter crafts
After the sun sets, residents can mark the winter solstice with indoor activities such as creating seasonal crafts using Maine materials.
A handcrafted Christmas wreath made with Maine balsam fir brings natural holiday cheer to any home, and can be embellished with other natural trimmings like turkey feathers. Credit: Susan Bard / BDN
Options include wreaths and simple candle holders made from evergreens, pinecones and berries.
Many Maine land trusts allow public access to conserved forests and trails, providing materials for crafts with a permit. Creating your own wreaths and decorations is not only rewarding; they also make great gifts and are traditions worth starting.
Max McClung scored 12 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter, and the Windy City Bulls went on a 15-2 run in the fourth quarter to pull away for a 121-106 win over the Maine Celtics in an NBA G League game Friday night at the Portland Expo.
Kevin Knox II added 30 points, 21 in the second half.
Amari Williams led the Celtics with 26 points, nine rebounds and eight assists. Jalen Bridges made six 3-pointers and finished with 22 points, but the Celtics dropped to 2-8 in their last 10 games. Maine has lost four straight games at the Expo.
Press Herald sports writers nominate high school athletes from the prior week’s games.
Readers vote for their top choice and the winner will be announced in the newspapers the following Sunday all season long!
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A collective of environmental, arts and Indigenous-led organizations is collaborating to produce We Are the Watershed, a two-day event aimed at reconnecting humans with nature and revitalizing the health of waterways, estuaries, and the bay in Peskotomuhkatikuk (traditional Passamaquoddy territory). Events, including theatrical performances, music, culinary experiences and an exhibition of submitted artwork, will be held on May 1 and 2 at Eastport Arts Center (EAC). A publication of written and visual works will also be released with proceeds to support conservation efforts and spreading awareness of their impacts.
Submissions sought: Written and visual works are currently sought from artists and creatives on both sides of the border across Peskotomuhkatikuk for the publication, which will be sold by donation at the May event. Proceeds from the sale will be dedicated to related community-building efforts, public engagement, and continued restoration efforts. The deadline for digital submission for the publication is April 1.
Physical works can be dropped off at EAC Sunday, April 26 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to be a part of the exhibition, which will run May 1 through 15. Artists under 18 will receive 100% of the proceeds if they opt to put their pieces up for sale during the exhibit, which will run May 1 through May 15. Artists over 18 will receive 70% of the proceeds with the remainder going toward promoting awareness of and supporting conservation efforts for the Passamaquoddy Bay.
The Eastport Arts Center
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Every week through Apr 01, 2026. Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
