Driving Through Time: A Maine Family’s Antique Car Christmas Tradition

Some holiday traditions include driving around town to see sparkling holiday light displays, cooking family dishes, or wearing matching pajamas.

But for one Maine family, the holiday season only truly begins when they fire up their antique car and head out to get their Christmas tree.

I luckily came across a post of Robert happily sharing his story on a local Facebook Page and it made me feel nostalgic.

This year Lewiston’s, Robert Latlippe and his family took their incredible 1936 Buick Century for their annual tree grabbing journey.

Riding down the road in this vintage car turns heads every time and is something straight out of a classic Christmas movie. 

Robert told me that the outing felt like their own personal version of a real-life A Christmas Story, “without the flat tire, thankfully.”  

This isn’t a one-time thing, every single year the family chooses a different antique car for the tradition of grabbing their tree.

Classic Tradition: Lewiston Family Fetches Tree in a 1936 Buick Century

Last year they chose the 1926 Model T truck, a crowd pleasing vehicle in it’s own right.

Robert told me, 

"Next year we plan to add a trip for Chinese food on our way home to add to the fun of the day and connect a bit more with the movie. Some might think its silly but for us its a fun way to mark the start of the holiday season. If we can help a few people smile along the way that is a bonus."

A Vintage Ride into the Heart of the Holidays

Robert does admit he’s not sure which car he’ll choose next, but says the Century holds a special place in his heart.

Read More: Essential Maine Holiday Events to Do This Christmas Season

Folks out on the road are delighted to see this old car, especially in a world where the holidays can feel stressed and overly digital.

This one families tradition reminds us all of the magic in slowing down, honoring our history, and bringing a bit of old-fashioned fun to the streets.