Christmas Cove: A Cookbook Celebrating 125 Years of Tradition, Family, and Food

Christina - Jul 14, '25 - Branding - Cookbook Ideas - Cookbook Stories - Fundraising - Organization - Recipes

Located in Maine’s scenic midcoast, the Christmas Cove Improvement Association (CCIA) has brought together generations of families since its founding in 1900. Each summer, more than 500 members gather to enjoy swimming, boating, racquet sports, cultural events, and social activities. Many of the homes have stayed within the same families for decades, creating a rich sense of tradition and deep community ties.

As CCIA reached its 125th anniversary, members knew they wanted to mark the milestone in a way that honored the past while celebrating the community they continue to build each year.

A Fresh Take on a Community Tradition

Rather than simply re-creating their Centennial Cookbook from 25 years ago, the team behind the new cookbook set out to do something different, something that reflected the unique personality and rhythm of life in Christmas Cove.

“We organized the cookbook around six recurring events in Christmas Cove and asked members to share recipes with a personal connection to those moments. The result was more than 145 recipes—a true celebration of family, fun, friends, and food enjoyed year after year.”

By inviting contributors to pair recipes with stories tied to beloved community events, the project became more than a cookbook, it became a storytelling archive of what makes Christmas Cove so special.

Generations Working Together

The project was shaped by the very thing that defines the CCIA community: its multi-generational nature. One of the cookbook co-editors is the daughter-in-law of the original Centennial Cookbook’s editor. The charming cover artwork was created by the daughter of the project’s other co-chair. The committee itself spanned decades in age—from 30-somethings to community members in their 70s.

Families submitted recipes across generations, including cherished dishes passed down from members no longer with us. This blend of old and new created something deeply personal and enduring.

A Cookbook That Captures the Heart of the Cove

In the end, the cookbook became a meaningful way to celebrate 125 years of shared summers, family traditions, and unforgettable meals. It’s more than just a collection of recipes, it’s a tribute to the memories, people, and stories that continue to shape life in Christmas Cove.

Want to Create a Team Cookbook of Your Own?

Whether you’re part of a community, hospital, company, or nonprofit, a cookbook is a meaningful way to bring your team together.

👉 Learn more about our Project Management Service and how we can help.