KENNEBUNKPORT — Hats of all kinds were on parade during one popular event off Kennebunkport’s 11-day long Christmas Prelude celebration, which ushers in the holiday season at the this coastal tourist town in southern Maine.

Grinches, a mailbox with letters to Santa, a giant chicken wearing a top hat and lots of reindeer were among the crazy and unique hats on display during Saturday afternoon’s 13^th annual Hat Parade. The parade, always a crowd pleaser, especially when the temperature is relatively mild which it was Saturday, attracted thousands who were watching, and there were almost as many participants. Anyone with a creative chapeau is invited to march in the parade, which is a short trek beginning in Kennebunkport’s Dock Square, traveling over the bridge that leads into Lower Village Kennebunk and ends at 9 Western Ave.

Prelude, which began Thursday and ends Sunday, Dec. 9, is chock full of activities for all ages.

There’s lots to do for the little ones. Saturday featured a children’s book signing by local author Danie Connelly. Young and old could pose for pictures with pug sisters — known as the Pugdashians — Sissy, Tilly and Natty, while raising $200 for Green Mountain Pug Rescue and Pug Rescue of New England. And Mrs. Claus took time out of her busy schedule to read stories to children.

Another popular activity, which has been taking place for many years, is creating crafts at River Tree Arts in Kennebunk’s Lower Village.

Children could chose from painting clay ornaments, signs, Santa hats and even lobster buoys.

Five-year-old Zola Dickerson from Brooklyn, New York, accompanied by her parents, was one of those painting a clay ornament. Her mother, Casey Court, said she, her husband and daughter, were visiting family who live in the area. Court said her family often comes to town for Prelude, “It’s a nice family weekend.”

Craft making wasn’t just for children. Bonnie Tallagnon of Biddeford was painting a sign that she hopes to use for her Airbnb. She said she had four guests from Montreal who came for the weekend specifically to attend Prelude.

River Tree has participated in Prelude for many years.

Director of Operations Kym Mabee said the organization will hold a craft workshop again on Saturday, Dec. 8, featuring different crafts. She said Prelude is a good event to be part of as it provides exposure for the organization. “It brings people who normally wouldn’t be here,” and added, “once they come they keep coming back.”

River Tree board member Nick Howley said Prelude is a good event for the entire town. “It brings people for all over New England. It revitalizes this small vacation town.”

Jaime Coval, who lives near Boston, and was waiting in line for hot chocolate at Mornings in Paris, said she’s been coming to Prelude for many years and her sentiments about the event were echoed by many.

“I’ve been coming here since I was younger,” she said. “It’s kind of a nostalgic feeling and I just love it.”

Prelude will hold activities throughout the week and ends Dec. 9. For a full schedule of events, visit the website christmasprelude.com.

— Associate Editor Dina Mendros can be reached at 780-9014 or dmendros@gmail.com