Dozens of vendors converge on downtown Winthrop to sell their wares, drawing thousands of customers and a sense of community.
holiday shopping
Thrifting for Christmas helps shoppers save money, buy sustainably
Resale shops, thrift stores and antiques malls across Maine make it possible to find unique vintage and handcrafted holiday gifts at bargain prices.
‘Giving trees’ in Maine reflect heightened need for household essentials
Organizers of donation drives say they’ve seen more requests than usual for food and basic supplies this holiday season.
In-store exclusives, tradition keep some Maine shoppers eager for Black Friday
But as the winter shopping season lengthens and more deals move online, some say the unofficial holiday is losing its appeal.
What Maine’s back-to-school sales tell us about holiday spending
New state data shows people were willing to spend a little more money this fall, but some shoppers still plan on cutting costs for the holidays.
Maine Christmas tree harvest expected to be strong, despite lengthy drought
Newly planted trees are more susceptible to the monthslong dry spell, causing an increase in mortality rates for saplings. But farmers say the older trees that will be for sale this holiday season are doing well.
Postal Service rate increases could squeeze Maine businesses
The state’s remote geography means most shipments destined for beyond New England will face higher surcharges over the winter holiday season.
Holiday hiring up as retailers prepare for strong selling season
Finding workers for the holiday season in Maine is settling back into a familiar pattern: a burst of hiring similar to pre-summer preparation for tourists and a drop-off after those rushes end.
Small Business Saturday is big on local charm and unique gifts in Hallowell and Gardiner
On the heels of Black Friday’s big box store deals, local shoppers think small while hunting for just the right gifts while supporting local shops.
Midcoast Maine craftsmen get swept up by tools for choring
Wiscasset small business owners suggest holiday gifts for loved ones — from sustainable kitchen towels to handcrafted wooden brooms.