Here’s a link to a Portland Press Herald story about a tradition many Mainers have of going to L.L. Bean in Freeport, Maine, on Christmas Day.
I’ve been there a few times and love the place. It is especially great for anyone who enjoys the outdoors, whether it for hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, bird watching, whatever.
I was a recreation assistant to a pair of dorms at the residential campus of the University of Southern Maine and I organized a midnight run to L.L. Bean. Except for being pulled over for speeding, fun was had by all.
The main store – and I believe this is still the case – is open 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. If I recall correctly, L.L. Bean has closed twice in its history, including once to take in the residents of an apartment building that had burned.
Anyone visiting Maine should add L.L. Bean as a destination. Also, factory outlets and other shops have sprung up all around L.L. Bean.
My name is Keith Michaud and this is “Letters From Away,” a blog written by a Mainer living outside the comfortable and sane confines of New England. The blog is intended for Mainers, whether they live in the Pine Tree State or beyond, and for anyone who has loved ’em, been baffled by ’em or both. Ayuh, I am “from away.” Worse still, I live on the Left Coast – in California. Enjoy! Or not. Your choice.
Letters From Away 