Winter: During the holiday season, if you haven’t made a trip to the downtown area of Portland now is a good time to do so. Visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the season starting with the city christmas tree which stands proudly in center of Monument Square. The Time and Temp building is decked out in holiday style with red and white Christmas bells finding their way up the face of the building. Be sure to catch the free horse and carriage rides which will bring you in and around the downtown area during the weekend, it’s a fun way to spend some time with that someone special and the kids love the ride as well. After taking a carriage ride, head over to Arabica and sit back and enjoy a café mocha on the couches in this hip and happening coffee shop. Still got shopping to do? The downtown area offers some great places to find that perfect gift. Need a great book for your friend? Check out Longfellow Books, they have a great selection of contemporary, classics and a wonderful kid’s room. After spending some time in the bookstore head over to Bliss where you are sure to find the perfect outfit for any holiday get together. There are so many unique shops in the Old Port area you could certainly find something for everyone on your list. Downtown Portland will definitely put you in the holiday spirit and if you are looking for some fun things to do there are plenty of special events going on through the holidays that will help keep the season bright. Tis’ the season!