CAMDEN — The annual Christmas by the Sea weekend gets underway late this afternoon, Friday, when Camden Hills Regional High School vocal groups and instrumental ensembles perform holiday selections at the Camden Public Library, 4:30-6 p.m. During the concert, floats and decorated vehicles will be lining up on Colcord Avenue, in preparation for the start of the parade through downtown Camden at 6 p.m.

During the parade, Route 1 traffic will be held for approximately 25 minutes, beginning at 6 p.m.

Union Street will be closed to traffic beginning at 5:50 p.m., until the parade has made it onto Elm Street going north.

Drivers are advised to expect delays, or to make other arrangements.

The parade ends when Santa Claus has arrived at Atlantic Avenue and has made his way off the Cub Scout float to Harbor Park to help light the Community Tree.

Atlantic Avenue will be closed until after 8 p.m., and teens will be promoting their bake sales, raffles and other holiday goodies at tables placed on Atlantic Avenue and throughout the downtown. Proceeds support local student organizations and activities.

FMI and a full schedule of events, visit our Holiday Resource Guide.