– EVENTS –
If you’re heading to the Moosehead Lake region for Independence Day weekend in 2026, you can look forward to a classic small-town Maine Fourth: lakeside fireworks, a downtown parade, craft fairs, family events, and live music around the harbor. The Moosehead Lake region hosts multiple fireworks displays over the holiday weekend, including a downtown Greenville show and a lake-viewing display near Rockwood.
Here’s a roundup of what’s already scheduled or traditionally expected for the weekend of July 3-5, 2026.
FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2026
FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC
AROUND DOWNTOWN: The Moosehead region usually has live music throughout holiday weekends, especially near the gazebo, waterfront restaurants, and local inns. The long-running Greenville Gazebo Concert Series is expected to continue into July 2026. Updated schedules are typically posted through Destination Moosehead Lake’s events calendar at DESTINATIONMOOSEHEADLAKE.COM.
SATURDAY, JULY 4, 2026
GREENVILLE KID’S BIKE PARADE: One of the morning’s family highlights: kids decorate bicycles, wagons, and scooters in red, white, and blue before a short community parade.
LOCATION: GREENVILLE CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL
STARTS: 9 A.M. | ADMISSION: FREE
ANNUAL GREENVILLE FOURTH OF JULY PARADE: The centerpiece community event. Expect floats, antique vehicles, local organizations, fire trucks, and a strong North Woods small-town vibe as the parade moves through downtown Greenville.
ROUTE: PRITHAM AVENUE TO MAIN STREET
STARTS: 11 A.M. | ADMISSION: FREE
DOWNTOWN GREENVILLE BDN FILE
WATERFRONT FESTIVITIES & FAMILY ACTIVITIES: Greenville’s Junction Wharf and East Cove waterfront area typically host informal holiday activities including food stands, games, and gathering spaces throughout the afternoon. Event updates are generally posted through Destination Moosehead Lake’s calendar at DESTINATIONMOOSEHEADLAKE.COM.
LAKESIDE FIREWORKS: Enjoy Greenville’s fireworks display over Moosehead Lake at East Cove downtown. This is the main town fireworks display, viewed from the East Cove waterfront in downtown Greenville. Expect the shoreline and harbor area to fill up before sunset, with good viewing from the public waterfront and nearby docks.
LOCATION: EAST COVE WATERFRONT | ADMISSION: FREE
GREENVILLE FOURTH OF JULY CRAFT FAIR: A two-day craft fair featuring local makers, artists, food vendors, and handmade goods.
LOCATION: CAMDEN NATIONAL BANK, 20 LILY BAY ROAD HOURS: 9 A.M. - 3 P.M.
TIPS FOR THE WEEKEND
• BOOK LODGING EARLY. Fourth of July is one of the busiest weekends of the year in the Moosehead region.
FIREWORKS CRUISE ON THE STEAMBOAT KATAHDIN: The historic steamboat cruises Moosehead Lake in the evening, positioning passengers on the water to view the fireworks display. The trip also includes narration about the lake’s history and live music onboard.
HOSTED BY: KATAHDIN CRUISES AND MOOSEHEAD MARINE MUSEUM BOARDS: 6:30 P.M. | RETURNS: APPROXIMATELY 11 P.M. MORE INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS: KATAHDINCRUISES.COM/CRUISES/ROCKWOOD-FIREWORKS-CRUISE
• PARKING DOWNTOWN FILLS QUICKLY before the parade and major events.
• BRING LAYERS; evenings on Moosehead Lake can still get chilly, even in July.
• IF YOU WANT QUIETER FIREWORKS VIEWING, the shoreline around Rockwood and some public pull-offs north of Greenville can be less crowded than downtown.
• FOR UPDATED SCHEDULES closer to the holiday weekend, visit destinationmooseheadlake.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MOOSEHEAD MARINE MUSEUM
FROM QUIET MILL TOWN TO CREATIVE DESTINATION: MONSON’S NEW IDENTITY
STORY BY EMILY BURNHAM • PHOTOS COURTESY OF MONSON ARTS
Since launching in the summer of 2018, Monson Arts in the Piscataquis County town of the same name has been a transformational cultural force for the entire Moosehead region — most obviously in Monson itself, of course.
After all, between 2016 and 2028, the Libra Foundation, the Portland-based charitable organization that operates Monson Arts, purchased more than 30 buildings in Monson’s downtown, which had been struggling for years after major employers like Monson Furniture closed. In the ensuing years, those buildings have been renovated and are now filled with businesses, offices, studio and gallery space, and housing for the hundreds of artists who have come to the scenic town for Monson Arts’ yearround residency programs.
Monson in 2026 looks a lot different than it did just 10 years ago. Monson Arts Executive Director Chantal Harris attributes this not just to the organization’s intentional influx of creativity and new businesses in town, but to its work to collaborate with and strengthen communities throughout the region. Combine that with the regular flow of thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail on their final leg toward Katahdin, and today Monson seems to be thriving.
“The fact that now community members and hikers and these artists from all over the world are all getting their breakfast from the Monson General Store together is just a great illustration of how that’s worked,” said Harris, referring to the grocery and deli that the organization runs, which has quickly become a fixture of the community.
CHEF LULU SHARES A COMMUNITY DINNER WITH MONSON ARTS PARTICIPANTS. PHOTO COURTESY OF MONSON ARTS.
In addition to the artists who come for Monson Arts’ month-long residencies, the organization has an array of programming occurring year-round in Monson and other Piscataquis County communities. Each summer, it hosts a series of weeklong workshops for community members on a variety of skills. This summer’s offerings include audio and sound design, memoir writing inspired by Henry David Thoreau’s time in Maine, and a weeklong poetry conference led by Maine Poet Laureate Dawn Potter.
The Monson Arts Gallery in downtown Monson each year highlights Maine-based artists. This summer’s exhibit features artist and author Michael Rothschild, who uses Monson slate in his work. That exhibit is on display through Oct. 12. Next door to the gallery is the Monson Art Store, which sells an array of books, jewelry, gift items, and art at multiple price points.
“The gallery is open to the public and free, and we really encourage folks to take their time looking at the art and moving at their own speed,” Harris said. “And the art store next door has had the surprising effect of being not just a popular bookstore in the area, but also a really accessible way to buy art — we have price points in there from $5 to $5,000, so anybody has a way in.”
The Quarry, the fine-dining restaurant in downtown Monson that feeds visiting artists, has also become one of the most sought-after dining destinations in Maine. Chef-owner Lulu Ranta won a 2023 James Beard Award for Outstanding Hospitality for her warm atmosphere and inventive cuisine. It remains a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
For younger residents in the area, Monson Arts offers a weeklong art camp and a two-week theater camp that moves between multiple towns throughout Piscataquis County.
Harris said one of her favorite parts of Monson Arts’ role in the region is that it has served as a de facto community center for many different groups and organizations.
“People really crave that kind of connection and places to make them, so when we host things like knitting groups or local advocacy organizations or salon nights for local artists, it gets folks not just out of the house but connecting,” Harris said. “We did a countywide art night not too long ago, and it brought all kinds of folks out, some of whom hadn’t seen each other in 20 years, despite living so close to each other. That’s really special.”
Those connections are mutually beneficial for the artists who come to town for residencies.
“I think for artists coming from cities, it can be a little surprising to come from that kind of anonymity in a busy city to now being in a very close-knit small town where everyone sees everyone,” Harris said. “But that’s how we build community. We’ve had artists who want to come back because that connection is so strong.”
LOCAL ARTIST JOHN BOZIN DISCUSSES HIS LIFE AND WORK WITH MONSON ARTS IN MONSON, MAINE.
DISCOVER MILO
BY KATIE SMITH
Nestled where the Sebec, Piscataquis, and Pleasant rivers meet, Milo, which includes the village of Derby, is also known as “The Town of Three Rivers.” It’s a quiet historic railroad town known for its fishing and boating spots. Its close proximity to Baxter State Park, Katahdin Woods and Waters, and Gulf Hagas makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its welcoming atmosphere and easy access to nature, Milo is the perfect place to explore and unwind. Whether you’re exploring Milo for the day or an extended trip, here are the places you don’t want to miss.
RAIL YARD BREWING: 157 ELM ST., MILO
If you’re craving craft beverages and comfort food, Rail Yard Brewing delivers in a cozy, laid-back space. The menu ranges from burgers to maple-glazed Brussels sprouts, paired with beers crafted with locally sourced malts. You’ll definitely be satiated when you leave. They also offer a fun community vibe with trivia on Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and live music on Saturdays at 6 p.m. Veterans can enjoy happy hour all the time with 10% off drinks.
HARRIGAN LEARNING CENTER AND MUSEUM: 15 HARRIS ROAD, MILO
Generally open Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Harrigan Learning Center and Museum is a great place to bring the entire family for an educational experience. Inside, you’ll find an impressive display of fossils, minerals, and artifacts, along with special events throughout the season. Be sure to stop by the museum store as well, where you can take a piece of history home with you.
VETERANS PARK: 19 WATER ST., MILO
Located on the Sebec River, Veterans Park is known for its excellent fishing, with plenty of salmon and bass. It’s also a peaceful place to boat if you’re looking for a nice, relaxing flat-water ride. The park features a gazebo and open space that make it ideal for spending time with family, enjoying the views, or having a picnic by the river. Visitors can stroll the grounds, birdwatch, and take in the plaques and memorials dedicated to Maine veterans. The park also hosts the annual Black Fly Festival, usually in June, which features music and local vendors.
REUBEN’S MARKET: 97 ELM ST., MILO
Reuben’s Market is the place to stop if you’re visiting Milo. They carry everything from crawlers for your fishing trip to all the comfort food you could want — pizza, baskets, and dinners such as enchiladas. It’s an easy, convenient stop whether you’re stocking up for a day outdoors or grabbing a quick meal.
HARRIS POND (MILO FARM POND): 179 PARK ST.,
MILO
This pond is for children only and is a stocked fishing spot, making it a great place for them to brush up on their fishing skills while you capture some photos. Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxed afternoon outdoors while they fish and explore.
ELAINE’S CAFE & BAKERY: 38 MAIN ST., MILO
Elaine, a lifelong baker, turned her passion for baking into a local business overlooking the Piscataquis River. The bakery offers tables and chairs where you can enjoy a treat. Elaine’s offers cakes, doughnuts, and monthly whoopie pie specials, as well as custom orders for large events such as parties and weddings.
MCLAUGHLIN’S FAMILY RESTAURANT LLC: 66 PARK ST., MILO
This cozy family restaurant is the perfect place to stop for a hearty breakfast before you set out for a day on the water or exploring. The restaurant also offers dinner Wednesday through Saturday evenings, and its menu includes everything from burgers to seafood.
MILO HISTORICAL SOCIETY: 12 HIGH ST., MILO
Open in July and August on Tuesdays from 1 to 3 p.m., the Milo Historical Society is also open by appointment. It’s a great place to dive into local history and view artifacts from the town’s industrial years, offering a deeper look into Milo’s past.
IN PISCATAQUIS COUNTY FINDING A BIT OF
Residents of Piscataquis County are fortunate enough to have two charming businesses that fit the bill: Triple Goddess Apothecary and BackWoods Magik.
Whether or not you believe in magic (though we hope you do), Triple Goddess Apothecary in Milo is certain to cast a relaxing spell. So named for the pagan triad deity comprising “mother,” “maiden,” and “crone,” Triple Goddess endeavors to facilitate healing through a “balance of body, mind, and spirit.”
Both co-creators Shannon Lord and Andrea Witham were intent on imbuing the space with a palpable Maine feeling, as the former hails from Brownville Junction and the latter has resided in the state for more than a decade. Combining expertise in business management, customer service, and herbalism, the duo has forged a unique establishment that simultaneously offers mystical duende alongside local accessibility.
BY JOANNA O’LEARY
Sometimes you want to go where everything is magic.
easy to linger over a glass of lavender lemonade or the Garden Tea, a refreshing house creation made with chamomile, hibiscus, and lemon balm, topped with strawberry-rose syrup and vanilla cold foam.
With a cup in hand, visitors can peruse the latest selection of jewelry and home decor made by local artisans at their leisure. Or, if caffeine and conversation are in order, there’s a loveseat perfect for spirited tete-a-tetes.
Just a few miles down the road in DoverFoxcroft, there’s more magic to be found at BackWoods Magik, owned and operated by Colleen and Peter Cunningham.
Both are transplants from Minnesota who brought their fervent passion for all things metaphysical to their new home, which in large part inspired the title of the shop itself.
“This place is magic,” Colleen said. “That’s how we came up with the name for BackWoods Magik.”
The boutique side of Triple Goddess vends a full range of natural tinctures, tonics, and medicalgrade cannabis products designed to promote all aspects of wellness, as well as home decor items such as candles and greeting cards. The apothecary, in turn, doubles as a cafe, serving handcrafted teas, responsibly sourced coffee, and baked goods.
Strawberry cheesecake-stuffed cookies are a specialty for patrons looking to tune in, turn on, and drop out — even for just an hour — as a means of finding respite from the madding world.
As “Maine’s Original Metaphysical Comic Shop,” BackWoods Magik is an invaluable resource for the bibliophilic witch — or those who are simply pagancurious. In addition to offering a comprehensive selection of books on spell-casting, foraging, and herbology, this quaint mystical market is home to a diverse array of magical paraphernalia, including apparel, tarot decks, jewelry, and crystals.
On a balmy early-summer day, the shop’s cozy, book-lined interior and soothing earth tones make it
For the plushie-loving pagan, there’s also an admirable selection of Punchkins. But perhaps the best thing about BackWoods Magik is something not for sale: the conversations one can have with the Cunninghams, who are generous — but never officious — in sharing their wisdom and guidance.
WIN PISCATAQUIS COUNTY
BY KATIE SMITH
hether you’re an avid hiker tackling new trails every weekend or someone who enjoys the occasional family hike, Piscataquis County is a beautiful place to explore. Named from an Abenaki word meaning “branch of the river,” Piscataquis County is one of the largest counties east of the Mississippi River and is home to the breathtaking Baxter State Park. You can find everything from stretches of wilderness to gorges, lakeside paths, and waterfalls.
MOUNT KATAHDIN
Located in Baxter State Park, Mount Katahdin is Maine’s highest peak. Hiking Katahdin is the ultimate challenge. This isn’t a casual walk by any means. In fact, it’s said to be the toughest day hike in New England and is the famous northern endpoint of the Appalachian Trail. Whether you decide to tackle the intensity of the Knife Edge Trail or the Abol Trail, a steep, 7-mile trek, make sure you gear up with plenty of food and water, check the weather, and book a Katahdin trailhead pass in advance, as spots fill up fast.
GULF HAGAS
HERE’S A LIST OF DIVERSE PLACES TO EXPLORE:
Mountain. All feature varying terrain and offer astonishing 360-degree views. This venture takes planning, and most hikers prefer to tackle it in phases by making several trips. The fun part? When you conquer all six mountains, you earn a badge. Be sure to come prepared by mapping out your routes and carrying plenty of water. All of the mountains can be accessed from the Greenville area.
CHIMNEY POND TRAIL
Beneath Mount Katahdin in Baxter State Park, you’ll find a moderately difficult hike that is about 6.5 miles out and back. Take in views of Chimney Pond and closeup views of Mount Katahdin as you climb, but be careful because the terrain is rocky and can be slippery. You must reserve parking at Roaring Brook Campground to access the trail.
Also known as the Grand Canyon of Maine, Gulf Hagas is a moderate-to-difficult trail featuring a 3-mile slate gorge. It can be slippery, so be cautious if you’re not an experienced hiker or are bringing small children. Gulf Hagas is located along the Appalachian Trail and offers stunning views of waterfalls and stone walls. Pets are permitted, and there are fees to enter.
The trail can be accessed from Hay Brook, but be aware that you’ll have to cross a 150-foot-wide river on foot. There is no bridge, and the water is knee-deep on an average-size adult. Another access point on Katahdin Iron Works Road allows hikers to avoid crossing the river. Be sure to bring a trail map, which can be purchased at all checkpoints.
MOOSEHEAD PINNACLE PURSUIT
If you’re into being rewarded for a challenge, the Moosehead Pinnacle Pursuit is for you. The goal is to summit six mountains: Big Moose Mountain, Borestone Mountain, Eagle Rock, Mount Kineo, Number Four Mountain, and White Cap
LILY BAY STATE PARK
If you’re looking for a more relaxed hike, head to Lily Bay State Park in Greenville. Enjoy views of Moosehead Lake in the 925-acre park, which offers activities yearround as well as camping. There’s beach access, a playground, boat slips, and a 2-mile scenic trail. This is a great choice for a family hike.
GUILFORD MEMORIAL WALK
Along the Piscataquis River in Guilford is the Guilford Memorial Walk, a trail with two sections weaving through downtown and along the riverfront. This free walk is about a mile long and suitable for all skill levels. Amenities include a playground, benches, and picnic tables for a riverside lunch, as well as a horseshoe pit and a ballpark. Pets are permitted, and you’re likely to spot a bald eagle or osprey during your walk.
PHOTO CREDIT: LINDA COAN O’KRESIK | BDN FILE
PHOTO CREDIT: AISLINN SARNACKI | BDN FILE
PHOTO CREDIT:
AISLINN SARNACKI | BDN FILE
BY WANDA CURTIS
Piscataquis County has many interesting historic sights to see. More than 50 of those sites have been added to the National Register of Historic Places. Many are related to the logging industry. With the recent arrival of warm weather, it would be a great time to plan a day trip, pack a lunch, and head out to visit some of these sites. Below are just a few of the sights that you don’t want to miss.
AMBAJEJUS BOOM HOUSE is a historic logging-related facility built in 1907. It’s one of the only boom houses of its kind left from the great log drives that were once a major part of the economy in the area. Lumber harvested from the northern woods was sawed into logs and floated down the Penobscot River to Lake Ambajejus and then to the paper mills. Boom houses provided temporary living quarters for loggers and other workers involved in logging operations.
Ambajejus Boom House is now a museum containing artifacts from the river drives in the area that ended in 1971. The museum is located on Ambajejus Lake, northwest of Millinocket. It’s accessible by boat from May through September.
AMERICAN WOOLEN COMPANY MILL is a complex including 10 buildings and structures on East Main Street, near the Piscataquis River bridge, in Dover-Foxcroft. Those were built between 1844 and 1941. The mill was once called Mayo & Son Mill. However, the entire complex was completed under the ownership of the American Woolen Company. The buildings are representative of the architecture seen in textile mills during that time period.
Mills provided work for many people in the area for 163 years, according to the Maine Historic Preservation Commission. Workers manufactured high-quality woolen textiles used for men’s and women’s clothing.
CHANDLER PARSONS BLACKSMITH SHOP is a historic blacksmith shop located at 103 Dawes Road in Dover-Foxcroft. The shop is thought to have been built by blacksmith Nicholas A. Chandler in the early 1860s. It was later restored and is now a museum containing original blacksmith equipment such as an anvil, bellows, an ox lifter, and other tools used in the blacksmith trade, some of which are interactive. The museum is open between Memorial Day and October.
CHESUNCOOK VILLAGE was an 1840s logging settlement associated with the Penobscot log drives. It’s located on the northwestern shore of the 26,000acre Chesuncook Lake and is part of an unorganized township. One of the key structures there was the Chesuncook Village Lake House, which was a boarding house and lodge for loggers and trappers until it burned in 1918.
The building that replaced it continues to serve as a wilderness lodge that offers home-cooked meals. There are also houses built by Northern Paper Company for workers and a church-schoolhouse building that the company also built. The remote village is open to visitors and can be reached by boat or car.
KATAHDIN IRON WORKS is a Maine state historic site where the iron works operated between 1845 and 1890. It’s located in the unorganized territory of Katahdin. At one time, there were 16 charcoal kilns and a blast furnace operating there, according to the Maine Historic Preservation Commission. Each kiln burned 50 cords of wood, which the commission’s website says took six days to burn and 10 days to cool.
The company ceased operations in 1890 because of outside competition. Remnants of the blast furnace, a charcoal kiln, and the 200-family company town still remain today. Several natural landmarks are also located in the area.
PHOTO CREDIT:
CHRIS EHRMANN
THE KATAHDIN is a historic steamboat built at Bath Iron Works in 1914 and is the oldest boat built by BIW that is still afloat today. It was first put into operation as a cruise ship for tourists on Moosehead Lake in Greenville. Later, a paper company acquired it and used it as a towboat for hauling lumber across the lake.
The boat was later restored to serve as a cruise ship again, offering cruises on Moosehead Lake from June through October.
MOOSEHEAD MARINE MUSEUM contains artifacts and photos related to the days of steamboating and the heritage of the Moosehead Lake region. Tickets for Katahdin cruises can be purchased at the museum’s ticket office. The museum is located at 12 Lily Bay Road in Greenville.
WILLIAM M. SHAW HOUSE is a beautiful historic building that was once the home of prominent Greenville businessman William M. Shaw. He owned a sawmill, lumberyard, and retail store in Greenville. He was also the owner of M.G. Shaw Company, which controlled large tracts of forest land.
Shaw owned the Katahdin steamboat as well. The house is known for its elaborate Queen Anne architecture. A period carriage house sits next to it. The property was converted into an inn and is currently operated as the Greenville Inn. It’s located at 40 Norris St. in Greenville. Six guest cottages were added to the property after the conversion.
PHOTO CREDIT: LINDA COAN O’KRESIK
BY JOANNA O’LEARY
There is a very narrow window during which one can comfortably visit a food truck without having to navigate some sort of frozen precipitation. And while mobile food purveyors used to be few and far between in rural Maine, the options for “meals on wheels” have grown exponentially. We’ve picked our favorites below, so add them to your summer bucket list and don’t forget to check social media for the latest updates on where they’re currently parked.
At the CLUCKIN’ MOO (Dexter), galline and bovine proteins take center stage via its popular “build a burger” entree option. Customers choose their patty (beef, grilled or fried chicken), then stack it with their choice of cheese, vegetables, and sauces (honey mustard, teriyaki, garlic Parmesan, buffalo, etc.). The best thing to accompany these gut-busting burgers is, of course, something fried. We’re partial to the zucchini sticks and Penobscot Fries, topped with cheese, bacon, and sour cream.
To open the Cluckin’ Moo, owner and head cook Shelley Rumsey parlayed years of experience in the restaurant industry, and she counts its clientele as one of the main perks.
“I not only enjoy cooking delicious food, I love meeting people from literally all over the world,” she said. “Brewster Inn right in Dexter gets travelers from all over and sends many of them to us!”
What’s also to love about the Cluckin’ Moo? Its semi-permanent location boasts ample parking and easy access to the adjacent ATV trail.
THE MOBILE MUG, as its name suggests, specializes in liquid refreshment, offering all the standard caffeinated options (lattes, Americanos, cappuccinos, chai, and mochas). But try something bolder, such as its innovative riffs on the classics, like the “Maple Maine Sunday” (cold brew infused with maple syrup and topped with maple cold foam) or the salted caramel shaken espresso.
“Trying out new things is so much fun for me,” explained owner and operator McKenzie Landry. “The best feeling is being able to convert a non-coffee drinker to a coffee lover.”
Never fear, however, if conversion is not part of your journey; the Mobile Mug also makes stellar hibiscus lemonade and delightfully nostalgic orange creamsicle soda. And of course, you’ll need something to nosh on while you sip your beverage of choice. The Mobile Mug, based out of Abbot, is one of a handful of places in the tri-county area that makes its own bagels in flavors such as plain, asiago, and everything, though weekly special flavors pop up on occasion.
Although BISHOP’S DINE & DASH in Dover-Foxcroft is a relative newcomer to the mobile food scene, this bright red trailer is already a local favorite thanks to its beloved Reuben sandwiches, made-from-scratch beef empanadas, and homemade dipping sauces (try the maple bacon jam on a burger).
Owner and operator Jennifer Bishop was inspired to open Dine & Dash by her parents’ experience in the hospitality industry.
“What brings me the most joy about having the food truck is that unlike a restaurant where you’re behind the scenes, here I get to interact with my customers and get to know them,” she said.
Lunch and early evenings see the picnic tables out front filled with families, so if you want to snag a seat, avoid those peak times.
“It’s not just a food truck,” Bishop said. “It’s become a gathering place where people hang out, make friends, listen to music, and eat great food.”
Finally, while dessert is often an afterthought at food trucks, that is not the case at Bishop’s, where attention must be paid — and room in the stomach reserved — for the deep-fried apple fritters with salted caramel sauce and French vanilla ice cream.
