Downtown Lewiston - Lewiston Maine 04240

Stuff the Bus drop-off location
2025-12-09 00:00 - 23:59 (America/New_York) | Franco Center, 46 Cedar Street, Lewiston, ME, 04240, United States
The holiday season is a time for giving, and Stuff the Bus is how our community comes together to do just that. Each December, the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce collects gifts for local nonprofits serving families, seniors, and pets across Androscoggin County.
This long-standing tradition fills our community with joy, connection, and generosity — and you can be part of it! Drop off new, unwrapped gifts at the Franco Center through Monday, Dec. 8. On Tuesday, Dec. 9, the Stuff the Bus will come here to 46 Cedar Street in Lewiston to pick up your generous gift donations. Your donations can be dropped off when our venue is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m.to 4 p.m.or by appointment.
HOLIDAY WISHLIST IDEAS
Below is a list of evergreen items that are needed by many of the families, seniors, teens, kids and pets in our community.
Full-size, new containers of:
•Body wash, Shampoo, conditioner
•Shaving cream, Razors
•Deodorant, Lip balm, Lotion
•Toothbrushes, Toothpaste
•Brushes & Combs
•Hair product, Hair elastics, and bobby pins
•Diapers, Wipes
•Nail Polish/nail art
•Make-up/Make-up kits
Clothes (All Sizes 12 months to Adult XXXXL)
•Warm Socks
•Sweatshirts + Hoodies
•Sweat pants
•Leggings
•PJs, Slippers
•Winter Hats
•Winter Gloves
•Snow Pants
•Winter Coats
•Winter Scarfs
Gift Cards to Target, Walmart, Shaws, Hannaford, CVS, Walgreens
Toys, Games and art supply ( All ages)
•Crayons, markers, colored pencils
•Coloring books, blank colored paper
•Books, Gamebooks
•Playing cards
•Journals
•Board Games
•Wooden toddler puzzles
•Music Toys
•Trucks, cars, trains, Remote control cars
•Legos
•Playdough
•Dolls (Baby, Barbie, Action Figures)
Others
•Lap/throw blankets (Blankets easy to carry in backpacks)
•Pillows, Pillow Covers
•Mattress covers (Full and Queen)
Pets: Dog food, cat food, toys, treats, blankets, beds, leashes, heat lamps

Stuff the Bus supports dozens of local organizations who serve individuals and families in need. Your participation ensures that everyone in our community — from families and seniors to pets and students — experiences the joy of the holiday season.

Holiday-themed La Rencontre in December
2025-12-11 11:30 - 13:00
Thursday, Dec. 11
Doors 10:30am
Lunch 11:30am
$17 RSVP by Dec. 4.
https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=298063
Celebrate the season with a festive holiday lunch filled with joy, music, and community spirit!
Pianist Chiaru will perform Christmas and other tunes on the lounge stage piano.
It’s the perfect way to add a touch of sparkle—and a little joie de vivre—to your holiday season.
Meat pie and all the fixings!
Sponsor: TV5 Monde

Maine Music Society Dec. 13
2025-12-13 19:00 - 21:00
Beneath the Winter Stars
Saturday, December 13 at 7:00 pm
Tickets:
https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=293002

Maine Music Society Dec. 14
2025-12-14 14:00 - 16:00
Beneath the Winter Stars
Sunday, December 14 at 2:00 pm
https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=293002

Sights & Sounds of Christmas Dec. 19, 20, 21
2025-12-19 19:00 - 21:30
Franco Center’s Beloved ‘Sights and Sounds of Christmas’ Returns for 2025 Holiday Season
The Franco Center is thrilled to announce its annual Christmas extravaganza — “Sights and Sounds of Christmas” — a holiday tradition that brings families together to celebrate the season. This year’s performances will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19, and Saturday, Dec. 20, with a special late-afternoon show at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21, at the Franco Center in Lewiston.
A cash bar in the Lower Level Bar & Lounge will be open for a pre-show holiday cocktail an hour before each performance.
The Performance Hall stage will be filled with holiday magic, featuring a wide array of acts — from ballet dancers and vocal ensembles to dramatic readings, poetry, and duets — all capturing the warmth and joy of the Christmas season. Many performances will be highlighted by a synchronized Christmas light show, adding a spectacular visual element to the festivities.
TICKETS: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=278561
“This show is all about creating memories,” said Theresa Shanahan, Executive Director of the Franco Center. “Each year, families come together here to experience the sights, sounds, and stories that make the holidays so special. It’s truly a celebration for everyone.”
Cast and production crew to be announced soon.
Curated by Production Director Jake Hodgkin, the show features a diverse lineup of performers. Hodgkin has designed the production to evoke a nostalgic, old-fashioned Christmas, where audience members can fully immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.
“Every corner of the Center will be sparkling this season,” said Hodgkin. “From twinkling lights and decorated trees to the music and performances, we’ve built a show that really captures the joy and magic of the holidays.”
Hodgkin brings a wealth of experience to the production, having worked in theater, live events, and entrepreneurial ventures. His passion for lighting and special effects began at age 12 with synchronized music and light systems — a technology now featured prominently in the show. Hodgkin’s extensive background includes lighting design, directing, and producing for local theaters, alongside operating a DJ business and organizing the annual “Chaos on Cobb Road” spooky walk, which attracts hundreds of visitors each year.
Tickets range from $10 to $30 and are AVAILABLE online at https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=278561
**Special Family and Small Group Pricing!**
For a group of four or more adults, tickets are $20 each. (this discount happens automatically when at least 4 adult tickets are purchased)
For a family of 2 adults and 2 youth use ticket code “Family” to get special prices of $20 for adults and $10 for youth. (this discount requires the code)
Call the Box Office for Senior Group or Assisted Living Facility prices!

Prices include fees:
Advance Tickets (before noon on performance day.)
Adults: $25
Youth (<18): $10
At Door Tickets
Adults: $30
Youth (<18): $15
Show sponsors:
Emerson Chevy

Dirigo Federal Credit Union

DJ Brothers

Crew
Jake Hodgkin – Director
Jackie McDonald – Assistant director
Astrea Charlett – Costume designer
Bette Fecteau – Set Decorator
Sarah Greaton – co lighting designer and operator
Theresa Shanahan – Spotlight
Brando Morin – sound designer
Michael Breton – Microphone manager
Missy Hodgkin – Stage manager
Basilio Charlett – Christmas lights operator
Spencer Cramp, Alison Marston, Larry Hodgkin – Stage Crew
Cast
Stephen Michaels
Torrey Gimpel
Jim Hodgkin
River Charlett
Mary Jo Hodgkin
Cassie Asselin
Nexx Marcoux
Avery Thibodeau
Elijah Middleton
Michelle Breton
Jacob Hodgkin
Jackie Preston
Theresa Cormier
Adrian Morneau
Jenn Leblanc
Stephen Miller
Preston Marston
Meg Thibodeau
Noel Cramp
Lorraine Giasson
Allen Brann
Kai Desilva
Leeanne Weston
Kathy Haley
Alexis Dascoulias
Tom Marston
Graton Weston

Sights & Sounds Dec. 20 and 21
2025-12-20 19:00 - 21:00
Franco Center’s Beloved ‘Sights and Sounds of Christmas’ Returns for 2025 Holiday Season
The Franco Center is thrilled to announce its annual Christmas extravaganza — “Sights and Sounds of Christmas” — a holiday tradition that brings families together to celebrate the season. This year’s performances will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, with a special late-afternoon show at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21, at the Franco Center in Lewiston.
A cash bar in the Lower Level Bar & Lounge will be open for a pre-show holiday cocktail an hour before each performance.
The Performance Hall stage will be filled with holiday magic, featuring a wide array of acts — from ballet dancers and vocal ensembles to dramatic readings, poetry, and duets — all capturing the warmth and joy of the Christmas season. Many performances will be highlighted by a synchronized Christmas light show, adding a spectacular visual element to the festivities.
TICKETS: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=278561
“This show is all about creating memories,” said Theresa Shanahan, Executive Director of the Franco Center. “Each year, families come together here to experience the sights, sounds, and stories that make the holidays so special. It’s truly a celebration for everyone.”
Cast and production crew to be announced soon.
Curated by Production Director Jake Hodgkin, the show features a diverse lineup of performers. Hodgkin has designed the production to evoke a nostalgic, old-fashioned Christmas, where audience members can fully immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.
“Every corner of the Center will be sparkling this season,” said Hodgkin. “From twinkling lights and decorated trees to the music and performances, we’ve built a show that really captures the joy and magic of the holidays.”
Hodgkin brings a wealth of experience to the production, having worked in theater, live events, and entrepreneurial ventures. His passion for lighting and special effects began at age 12 with synchronized music and light systems — a technology now featured prominently in the show. Hodgkin’s extensive background includes lighting design, directing, and producing for local theaters, alongside operating a DJ business and organizing the annual “Chaos on Cobb Road” spooky walk, which attracts hundreds of visitors each year.
Tickets range from $10 to $30 and are AVAILABLE online at https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=278561
**Special Family and Small Group Pricing!**
For a group of four or more adults, tickets are $20 each. (this discount happens automatically when at least 4 adult tickets are purchased)
For a family of 2 adults and 2 youth use ticket code “Family” to get special prices of $20 for adults and $10 for youth. (this discount requires the code)
Call the Box Office for Senior Group or Assisted Living Facility prices!

Prices include fees:
Advance Tickets (before noon on performance day.)
Adults: $25
Youth (<18): $10
At Door Tickets
Adults: $30
Youth (<18): $15
Show sponsors:
Emerson Chevy

Dirigo Federal Credit Union

DJ Brothers

Crew
Jake Hodgkin – Director
Jackie McDonald – Assistant director
Astrea Charlett – Costume designer
Bette Fecteau – Set Decorator
Sarah Greaton – co lighting designer and operator
Theresa Shanahan – Spotlight
Brando Morin – sound designer
Michael Breton – Microphone manager
Missy Hodgkin – Stage manager
Basilio Charlett – Christmas lights operator
Spencer Cramp, Alison Marston, Larry Hodgkin – Stage Crew
Cast
Stephen Michaels
Torrey Gimpel
Jim Hodgkin
River Charlett
Mary Jo Hodgkin
Cassie Asselin
Nexx Marcoux
Avery Thibodeau
Elijah Middleton
Michelle Breton
Jacob Hodgkin
Jackie Preston
Theresa Cormier
Adrian Morneau
Jenn Leblanc
Stephen Miller
Preston Marston
Meg Thibodeau
Noel Cramp
Lorraine Giasson
Allen Brann
Kai Desilva
Leeanne Weston
Kathy Haley
Alexis Dascoulias
Tom Marston
Graton Weston

Sights & Sounds Dec. 21 at 4pm
2025-12-21 16:00 - 18:00
Franco Center’s Beloved ‘Sights and Sounds of Christmas’ Returns for 2025 Holiday Season
The Franco Center is thrilled to announce its annual Christmas extravaganza — “Sights and Sounds of Christmas” — a holiday tradition that brings families together to celebrate the season. This year’s performances with a special late-afternoon show at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21, at the Franco Center in Lewiston.
A cash bar in the Lower Level Bar & Lounge will be open for a pre-show holiday cocktail an hour before each performance.
The Performance Hall stage will be filled with holiday magic, featuring a wide array of acts — from ballet dancers and vocal ensembles to dramatic readings, poetry, and duets — all capturing the warmth and joy of the Christmas season. Many performances will be highlighted by a synchronized Christmas light show, adding a spectacular visual element to the festivities.
TICKETS: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=278561
“This show is all about creating memories,” said Theresa Shanahan, Executive Director of the Franco Center. “Each year, families come together here to experience the sights, sounds, and stories that make the holidays so special. It’s truly a celebration for everyone.”
Cast and production crew to be announced soon.
Curated by Production Director Jake Hodgkin, the show features a diverse lineup of performers. Hodgkin has designed the production to evoke a nostalgic, old-fashioned Christmas, where audience members can fully immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.
“Every corner of the Center will be sparkling this season,” said Hodgkin. “From twinkling lights and decorated trees to the music and performances, we’ve built a show that really captures the joy and magic of the holidays.”
Hodgkin brings a wealth of experience to the production, having worked in theater, live events, and entrepreneurial ventures. His passion for lighting and special effects began at age 12 with synchronized music and light systems — a technology now featured prominently in the show. Hodgkin’s extensive background includes lighting design, directing, and producing for local theaters, alongside operating a DJ business and organizing the annual “Chaos on Cobb Road” spooky walk, which attracts hundreds of visitors each year.
Tickets range from $10 to $30 and are AVAILABLE online at https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=278561
Prices include fees:
**Special Family and Small Group Pricing!**
For a group of four or more adults, tickets are $20 each. (this discount happens automatically when at least 4 adult tickets are purchased)
For a family of 2 adults and 2 youth use ticket code “Family” to get special prices of $20 for adults and $10 for youth. (this discount requires the code)
Call the Box Office for Senior Group or Assisted Living Facility prices!

Advance Tickets (before noon on performance day.)
Adults: $25
Youth (<18): $10
At Door Tickets
Adults: $30
Youth (<18): $15
Show sponsors:
Emerson Chevy

Dirigo Federal Credit Union

DJ Brothers

Crew
Jake Hodgkin – Director
Jackie McDonald – Assistant director
Astrea Charlett – Costume designer
Bette Fecteau – Set Decorator
Sarah Greaton – co lighting designer and operator
Theresa Shanahan – Spotlight
Brando Morin – sound designer
Michael Breton – Microphone manager
Missy Hodgkin – Stage manager
Basilio Charlett – Christmas lights operator
Spencer Cramp, Alison Marston, Larry Hodgkin – Stage Crew
Cast
Stephen Michaels
Torrey Gimpel
Jim Hodgkin
River Charlett
Mary Jo Hodgkin
Cassie Asselin
Nexx Marcoux
Avery Thibodeau
Elijah Middleton
Michelle Breton
Jacob Hodgkin
Jackie Preston
Theresa Cormier
Adrian Morneau
Jenn Leblanc
Stephen Miller
Preston Marston
Meg Thibodeau
Noel Cramp
Lorraine Giasson
Allen Brann
Kai Desilva
Leeanne Weston
Kathy Haley
Alexis Dascoulias
Tom Marston
Graton Weston

Dueling Pianos laughs, dancing, fun Jan. 24
2026-01-24 19:00 - 21:00
Saturday, Jan. 24
Doors & cash bar 6 p.m.
Concert 7 p.m.
Taking place in the downstairs bar and lounge.
Join us “in the round” for a wild, interactive night of music, laughter, and crowd-powered song requests! Two pianists battling through a lot of high-energy songs, requests, and playful banter, creating an unforgettable, fun-filled audience experience.
Tickets $25 advance; at the door $30
Tickets https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=304301
Thank you to our sponsors:
Berman & Simmons

Maine Community Bank

Evergreen Printing
Evergreen Printing

Tribute to Lady Gaga: Just Dance concert
2026-02-28 19:00 - 21:00
SATURDAY, Feb. 28
Doors & Cash Bar 6pm
Concert 7pm
Amanda Tubbs & Band
Get ready for an unforgettable night as Amanda Tubbs and her band bring the energy, style, and powerhouse vocals of Lady Gaga to the stage! From chart-topping anthems to heartfelt ballads, this tribute concert promises glitz, glam, and nonstop hits that will have you singing and dancing all night.
Tickets available soon!
Sponsors:
Dirigo Federal Credit Union

Norway Savings Bank
