Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to ship?

If items are in stock, we typically process orders same day and ship ground to you, which should take 3 to 5 days. We use USPS, Fedex, or UPS depending on which allows us the most efficient and smooth method to reach.

What type of packaging do you use?

We present each item carefully packed to ensure safe travel and in either a gift box or a gift bag for gift giving and safe keeping. We also include an informative descriptive note about your item and a brochure about The Christmas Vacation Shop.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we do ship worldwide. Please take note that shipping times and customs processes do lengthen the shipping process.  Once a package leaves our US borders, it is possible to track packages but the process can be difficult and lengthy.

Can my gift be personalized?

Yes, you can have any gift personalized to your specifications.  Just include the information in your order notes or send us an email.  We do our very best to ensure it is customized for you.

How do you personalize your gifts?

Depending on the item and the way it is created, we use a variety of acrylics, paints, pens, embellishments, adhesives to make sure your gift is personalized to your liking.  We also want to make sure that the personalization is permanent and adds to the charm and whimsy of your gift.

Will you contact me if you have any questions about my order?

Yes, we will do our very best to contact you via the communication methods you have provided.  Email is always our first option followed by a telephone call if we do not hear from you after 3 email attempts.

Where are you located?

The Christmas Vacation Shop is located at 150 Maine Street, in Bar Harbor Maine.  We are a brick and mortar store celebrating our 15th year in business and we do invite you to visit us if you are in the area. A map and location information is located at : Contact/Visit Us    Shop online as well: Shop Online Now

What are your hours?

During our spring, summer and fall season, we are typically open from 10AM to 9PM 7 days a week.  Throughout the heavy summer months (July, August) we may open at 9AM and stay open well past 10PM. Early season, we may close earlier.  You can always email us to doublecheck.  If our lights are on, we are in! We strive to always be here, as we are always creating products at the shop!

Where do you find your supplies?

Many supplies that we use are locally sourced, gathered, and created here in Bar Harbor Maine. If our supplies are not readily or handily available, we do our very best to find local and American vendors to bring our inspiration to realization.

Can you tell me more about the products you make at the Shop?

We are very proud of our artists and talent that has built the reputation of The Christmas Vacation Shop.  Each product is individually hand crafted, with heart, love of what we do, and in response to what customers request of us.  There is not one item, ornament or gift that has been created without the express request for something “Maine”, “Unique”, “Acadia”,”Made in the USA”. For more product information, please check our link : https://christmasvacationshopgifts.com/madeinmaineproductinformation/

Will I actually meet the Artists at The Shop when I visit?

Yes!  It is not just the words we write! Everyday you will be greeted warmly by your Christmas Vacation Shop Host Artist!  You may also see and watch if we are creating a gift! Our gifts are very much in demand so we not only work during our “Cabin Fever” months, but all year through! Inspiration hits at anytime and often times we are creating new items.. Why, you ask?  Because folks like you inspire us, ask questions, and give our creativity life! For more information, please visit About Our Made in Maine Story

Who are Your Artists?

Our artists are mostly locally talented individuals. Ellen, the owner of the shop, had a calling for art early on, specifically design. Coupling art and design and a love of natural resources and unique items, she works with other artists and collaborates ideas that eventually become one of a kind handcrafted gifts offered at the shop and online. Other artists come from different backgrounds and their work is reflected throughout the shop.

What serves as the inspiration for your artists/gifts?

Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor and Maine are a palette of beauty ans serves as a backdrop and theme for many of our gifts. We are inspired by the beauty of Mount Desert Island, but we are also inspired by those around us. Whether it is our guests and customers, or the work of other artists, we appreciate all forms of art ans suggestions. That is why you will see many gifts made of different mediums: clay, ceramic, wood, shells, glass, resin, seaglass and more.

Can your artists paint or create a custom gift for me?

Our artists are always up for a challenge and many times we can create, design, and deliver a custom gift or ornament in a reasonable period of time, That is actually the story behind our painted Santa Clause Lobster Claw Ornament.  It was a request from a gentleman on the morning of July 4, 2013 and within a few hours we had created a new ornament for him which in turn became a new ornament that has become a very popular gift at the shop! See more in our custom page, as well as the Santa Clause Lobster Ornament available for purchase online and at the shop!

The Shop is called Christmas Vacation Shop. Why?

When the store was to open, a name had to be picked.  Since Maine is known as Vacationland and Ellen loved the movie, National Lampoons Christmas Vacation, it seemed to work perfectly.  Thus, The Christmas Vacation Shop came to be.  And, yes, we do sell some memorabilia pertaining to the popular Christmas Movie.  Ironically, Ellen is the name of both the owner of the shop and the wife of Clark Griswald!

Are you actually located on an island?

We sure are!  We are located on Mount Desert Island, home to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.  Despite being an island, you can reach us by bridge – Trenton Bridge or by boat if you cruising in on one of the mega yachts that port here each year.

Where is the best Lobster Roll?

Lobster is king here! Not only is it healthy but it is delicious too!  There are many restaurants that serve this wonderful meal so you really can’t go wrong anywhere you go!  Just remember the blueberry pie as dessert.  It is not to be missed!

What is all the interest about Acadia National Park?

Acadia is one of the most visited National Parks in the US.  We do invite you to visit the park as it is incredibly beautiful, scenic, and a very special place you will not soon forget.  Cadillac Mountain gets the first rays of sun each morning as it wakens Bar Harbor from its evening slumber to explore the many amazing locales. Please see our link of some of the many themes from Acadia that serve as inspiration for our gifts. Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor Information

Do all people in Maine have the Downeast accent?

We hate to disappoint you but no, we do not all have the accent.  You will hear it closer to the downeast coast, folks that have lived in the area for a long time, and some real “Mainahs”.  It is a quaint accent for sure!  If you pop in the shop, we can do our best to embellish the downeast talk and serve you up ” some wicked good lobstah claws and information, ayuh!