Good morning, Portland.

The Festival of Trees will soon kick off to support a charitable cause in the community—organizers plan to feature tree lighting displays to help raise local funds.

The annual Downtown Portland Turkey Trot four-miler took place yesterday, drawing nearly 1,000 runners from up to 25 states—proceeds benefited the USM women's track team and Rafiki Foundation while participants donated non-perishable food to a local pantry.

Local winner Alex Troxell said the race boosted community spirit among Portland runners—highlighting a rising local running culture.

The Press Herald Toy Fund has received many letters from Maine parents facing rising living costs and now plans to order extra toys and books for over 4,000 children this holiday season.

The 76-year-old charity is working to meet the greater demand—ensuring that every child in need will have a joyful holiday.

Scarborough hosted its free Thanksgiving meal at Wentworth School and fed a record 400 guests with support from the town and local businesses; organizers said the event aimed to ensure that no one felt alone while students displayed artwork on each table–a tradition now in its 10th year.

L.L. Bean in Freeport is preparing for Black Friday today by shifting operations to its Camp L.L.

Bean location since the main store is under renovation. The store is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and features a hunting and fishing spot that operates 24/7—drawing local shoppers ready for holiday deals.

Deering football won its 113th Thanksgiving game against Portland with a score of 35 to 14 at Memorial Field, led by Joey Foley who rushed for 175 yards and three touchdowns while his brother Nathan Foley intercepted three passes.

It was Deering’s first win over Portland since 2019—ending a long drought in an annual series played since 1911.

Deering won 35 to 14 against Portland on Thanksgiving at Memorial Field, earning its first Thanksgiving victory over its rival since 2019.

The win avenged regular season and playoff losses—strong plays in every quarter secured the win and gave a heartfelt sendoff to the seniors.

2025 The Polar Express Train Ride

2:45 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Non-refundable tickets available — Experience a magical ride to the North Pole with hot chocolate, cookies, and holiday cheer.

Tom Rush Concert

8-11 p.m. — One Longfellow Square — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary sounds of Tom Rush, a pioneer of American folk music.

Jim Gaffigan - Everything is Wonderful Tour

7-9 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Grammy-nominated comedian Jim Gaffigan as he brings his unique observations on life to Portland.

2025 The Polar Express Train Ride Experience

6:30 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Premium pricing available — Experience a magical journey to the North Pole with hot chocolate and holiday cheer.

Brad Terry Jazz Performance

4:00–5:30 p.m. — Cadenza — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Experience Maine jazz legend Brad Terry alongside talented musicians in an unforgettable live performance.

DIY Holiday Cork Ornaments & Mod Podge Votives

6-8 p.m. — Hardshore Distilling Company — Ages 21+ — Craft your own festive cork ornaments and decorative votives for the holiday season.

Joe DeRosa Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — General Admission available — Catch a night of laughs with acclaimed comedian Joe DeRosa as he performs live in Portland.

Maine Mariners vs Worcester Railers

6:00 – 7:30 PM — Cross Insurance Arena — Check event page for ticket pricing — Celebrate Portland Pirates night with specialty jerseys and alumni appearances.

Magic of Christmas Concert

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Merrill Auditorium — Ticket info not provided — Experience the festive celebration of joy and music featuring the Portland Symphony Orchestra and special guests.

A Victorian Nutcracker

7-8:30 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Tickets available — Experience the magic of a classic ballet in the heart of Portland.