Posted in Maine by Michelle

This One Strange Maine Tradition Is A Complete Mystery But It’s Awesome Anyway

Mainers have a lot of love for Maine. It’s why so many people eventually return after leaving and it’s why you’ll always know a Mainer out-of-state by listening to them talk about their home state. Over and over and over again. It’s the loving nature of Mainers that makes one annual tradition seem not to crazy after all.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

For the last 41 years, Portland has woken up to a beautiful surprise on the morning of February 14th. subinev / Flickr Beginning in the dead of night on the 13th and working until the early morning light the "Valentine Phantom" canvasses the town, covering it in simple red hearts on white paper. coreytempleton / Flickr The tradition has been passed along all these years shrouded in complete anonymity - the identity of the phantom has never been revealed. coreytempleton / Flickr What is certain is that this "phantom" is actually a group of people working together to make sure that at least one day each year, the city wakes up feeling a little bit more loved. coreytempleton / Flickr And, each year the phantom and crew work to achieve new levels of coverage including banners and flags in hard to reach places. coreytempleton / Flickr In 2017, they managed to make their way across a dark Casco Bay and hang a heart flag on Fort Gorges - an achievement that hadn't been seen since 1986. coreytempleton / Flickr Throughout the city, the crew most certainly have accomplices in the form of folks who will let them into office buildings to access large windows. coreytempleton / Flickr But, it's the simple tape jobs that feel the most special. The small gesture of love posted on an electrical box or a light post reminding Mainers that love exists all around them. coreytempleton / Flickr The tradition began in 1976, before Portland was the travel and tourism destination it is today. The country was reeling from the Vietnam War and the mood across the country was dismal. coreytempleton / Flickr This little show of love went a long way back then and continues to brighten up the lives of those in Portland each year. coreytempleton / Flickr Have you woken up to the Valentine Phantom's hearts on your home or office? Tell us about it in the comments! What's the most unique or impressive place you've seen a heart?

For a little more Maine appreciation, check out these 12 hilarious jokes you’ll only understand if you’re from Vacationland.