Experience Maine_Summer 2023

maine

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RICHARD J. WARREN

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Whether you’re new to Maine (welcome!) or well versed in all our state has to offer, it’s always fun planning for summer and discovering something new. This year’s Experience

We carefully research dates and information, but as several events were still in the planning phase at the time of production, not all information may be accurate now. Call ahead and check websites and social media to stay up-to-date.

Music & Concerts

BAGADUCE MUSIC PERFORMANCE HALL & BLUE HILL POPS

BLUE HILL

Bagaduce Music was built and largely sustained by musicians and music lovers. The organization endeavors to preserve a vast collection of printed sheet music of varying genres for future generations and to share it with as many people and organizations as possible. Find a list of this summer’s performances online. BAGADUCEMUSIC.ORG

WATERVILLE OPERA HOUSE

WATERVILLE

Since 1902, the historic Waterville Opera House has delivered the magic of the performing arts to audiences of all ages. Summer 2023 events include “Rock of Ages” June 16-25, Peter Yarrow and Noel Paul Stookey on July 1, The High Kings on July 23, and The Wallflowers on Aug. 1. WATERVILLECREATES.ORG

BOOTHBAY OPERA HOUSE

BOOTHBAY HARBOR

Since 1894, this historic opera house has played host to actors and musicians from around the state and the world. The summer schedule is already stuffed with exciting performances, including The Hot Sardines on June 3, Gaelic Storm on June 9, Livingston Taylor on July 7, Tim Sample on July 27, Alasdair Fraser & Natalie Haas on Aug. 17, and much, much more.

BOOTHBAYOPERAHOUSE.COM

MONTEUX SCHOOL & MUSIC FESTIVAL HANCOCK

The Monteux School & Music Festival, the nation’s premier training ground for orchestra musicians and conductors, celebrates its 80th season this summer with two world-class weekly concerts, from June 25-July 30. The Monteux Festival Orchestra concerts are presented 5 p.m. Sundays and are led by enrolled conductors. Mainely Chamber Music concerts, showcasing ensembles organized and performed by program participants, are held each Wednesday evening at 5 p.m. The annual free children’s concert and Instrument Petting Zoo will be held at 10:30 a.m. July 13. All concerts are held in the Forest Studio. MONTEUXMUSIC.ORG

JAZZ IN JUNE CAMDEN

Come enjoy great music in beautiful Camden. The lineup for 2023 includes a Women In Jazz night featuring the Grace Kelly Group and Staci Greisbach on June 16-17. Plus free concerts featuring the University of Maine Jazz Ensemble and other terrific Maine artists. JAZZINJUNECAMDENME.COM

KNEISEL HALL CHAMBER

MUSIC FESTIVAL BLUE HILL

The music making, community making, learning and growing of Kneisel Hall is back in full bloom. Save the date for the 2023 festival concerts — June 30 to Aug. 27! And enjoy weekly concerts on Fridays and Sundays. KNEISEL.ORG

WATERFRONT CONCERTS

BANGOR

It’s time to rock out this summer! On the docket so far for 2023 at Maine Savings Amphitheater in Bangor: Dave Matthews Band on June 16, Kane Brown on June 22, James Taylor on June 27, Weezer on June 30, Tedeschi Trucks Band on July 5, Chris Stapleton on July 7, Big Time Rush on July 11, Godsmack & Staind on July 25, Santana on Aug. 2, and more.

WATERFRONTCONCERTS.COM

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Music & Concerts

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BAR HARBOR MUSIC FESTIVAL BAR HARBOR

This year the Bar Harbor Music Festival celebrates its 56th season. From June 25-July 30, 2023, the group promises the unique variety and extraordinary quality for which this festival has become known and loved. The festival’s outreach programs, such as the admissionfree outdoor concerts in Acadia National Park, artistin-residence programs in American schools, colleges and universities, and its Young Audience Concerts have won new audiences for classical music and fostered music education.

BARHARBORMUSICFESTIVAL.ORG

NORTH ATLANTIC BLUES FESTIVAL ROCKLAND HARBOR

PARK

One of the most fun, relaxed weekends in Maine has got to be the annual North Atlantic Blues Festival, which features two full days of great live music from national blues performers. In addition to all day live entertainment, the festival has vendors selling a wide array of food, drinks, and crafts. The festival returns this year July 15-16, 2023.

NORTHATLANTICBLUESFESTIVAL.COM

PHOTO: BDN FILE PHOTO

THOMPSON’S POINT PORTLAND

A beautiful piece of land on the banks of the Fore River, Thompson’s Point can hold up to 5,000 attendees for concerts and festivals within close proximity to downtown Portland. This summer’s show line-up so far includes: Robert Plant and Alison Krauss on July 3, Goose on July 6, Fleet Foxes on July 11, Cake on July 16, Billy Strings on July 28-29, Maggie Rogers on July 31 and Aug. 1, The Revivalists and Band of Horses on Aug. 8, and much more.

THOMPSONSPOINTMAINE.COM

BLUE HILL BACH BLUE HILL

Blue Hill Bach presents performances and education programs that explore vocal and instrumental music of the baroque, presenting a week-long summer festival, July 18-22, 2023, that brings together early music specialists from across the U.S. and musicians from the local community, including high school and college students. BLUEHILLBACH.ORG

COUNTY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL FORT FAIRFIELD

Mark your calendar for two bluegrass music-filled long weekends: July 20-22 and Aug. 31-Sept. 3, 2023. If Bluegrass music and camping sound like a dream vacation to you, book your spot now.

COUNTYBLUEGRASS.COM

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Music & Concerts

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BAY CHAMBER CONCERTS

ROCKPORT

Since its founding in 1960, Bay Chamber has been committed to bringing transformative musical experiences to Midcoast Maine. The world-renowned musicians who perform in Bay Chamber Concert Series share their passion and dedication for the highest standards of performance and fearless innovation in programming and presentation. For the full calendar of concerts, visit their website. BAYCHAMBER.ORG

CAMDEN SUMMER SOUNDS

CAMDEN

Camden Summer Sounds, a free outdoor concert series that started in 2020, returns! Camden Opera House presents live music Sunday afternoons in August at the Camden Snow Bowl at 20 Barnestown Road. The BYOB/picnic concerts run 4 p.m. to 5:30-ish and feature a different genre every week: Aug. 6, The Right Track; Aug. 13, Primo Cubano; Aug. 20, Gawler Family Band; and Aug. 27, The Hot Suppers. Sponsored by the opera house’s Community Arts Fund. CAMDENOPERAHOUSE.COM

OSSIPEE VALLEY MUSIC FESTIVAL CORNISH

Ossipee Valley Music Festival is a 4-day celebration of good food, good people and good music. This year’s festival takes place

July 27-30, 2023 on the banks of the Ossipee River. The festival features four stages, food trucks, craft beer, yoga, barn dances, workshops, kids activities, craft vendors, and camping. OSSIPEEVALLEY.COM

BE SURE TO CHECK WEBSITES AND SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES FOR EVENT UPDATES.

SU ND

Resounding Hope

Summer Concert Series

August 2–13

Screen Door Festival

August 16–20

Camden & Rockport, Maine baychamber.org

Violinist Alexi Kenney

Photo by Mike Grittani, Grittani Creative

FAST Visit Visit

V V

BELFAST

Belfast

is where you'll find charm, creativity and community come together. shops, amazing food, places to get morning cup of coffee, to your experience Visit our historic and harborwalk and footbridge, or follow the a picnic with family or playing performances can be found at many Park to the dog park, downtown eats to uptown treats, saltwater trips to fresh water dips, and all the fun you can have in between! Visit us at the Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center!

is where you'll find charm, creativity and community come together. Summer abounds with wonderful events, eclectic shops, amazing food, places to get outdoors, get on the water, and get involved! From your morning cup of coffee, to your evening cocktails, there are plenty of great places to experience. Visit our historic and walkable downtown, enjoy the sights along the harborwalk and footbridge, or follow the Rail Trail up river. Many of our green spaces are ideal for a picnic with family or playing with your four-legged companion Live music and performances can be found at many venues by the water and throughout town. From City Park to the dog park, downtown eats to uptown treats, saltwater trips to fresh water dips, and all the fun you can have in between! Visit us at the Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center!

belfastmaine.org

Events

ARTS IN THE PARK

JUNE 24 + 25

One of the most scenic waterfront events in midcoast Maine Browse and buy unique, locally made gifts for family, friends, or yourself! Enjoy delicious food, desserts, and free entertainment with live local music

Free admission, rain or shine, and parking is available on some adjacent streets and nearby public parking areas. 207-338-5900

belfastmaine.org/arts-in-the-park

MAINE CELTIC CELEBRATION

JULY 21 - 23

A family-oriented celebration of the rich Celtic heritage, culture, and hospitality found along the coast of Maine Traditional Celtic music and dancing offered by the bay, and you can watch fireworks over Belfast Bay. With food and craft vendors as well, there is truly something for everyone! Admission by donation. mainecelticcelebration.com

BELFAST HARBOR FEST

AUGUST 18 - 20

A weekend of activities honoring the maritime heritage of Maine's midcoast. Evening by the Bay Auction, Pancake Breakfast and 5k Bug Run, National Boatbuilding Challenge, Cardboard Boat Races, Come Boating! Regatta, Lobster Gala, live music and more!

Activites for all ages!

belfastharborfest com

And Don't Miss Out on...

2

4

6

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* Belfast Summer Nights - Free Live Music Every Thursday Night! facebook com/belfastsummernights

* Holy Mackerel Fishing Tournament - July 29 + 30 - Cash Prizes! Find on Facebook

* Annual Belfast Street Party - August 7 - Live Music, Vendors, Food, Games, All Free! Find on Facebook

* Maine Wienerfest - September 10 - A Celebration of All Things Dachshund! mainewienerfest.com

at Steamboat Landing Park

eat & DrinkFood Festivals

THE MAINE OYSTER FESTIVAL FREEPORT

Did you know there are more than 150 oyster farms dotting Maine’s 3,500-mile coastline? Celebrate this tasty and environmentally critical bivalve in Freeport with the second annual celebration June 23-25, 2023. VISITFREEPORT.COM

MAINE WHOOPIE PIE FESTIVAL

DOVER-FOXCROFT

The sweetest day of the year is set for June 24, 2023, as the annual Whoopie Pie Festival returns to DoverFoxcroft. Since 2009, the Maine Whoopie Pie Festival has been gathering the best bakers from around New England to offer samples and compete for prizes and bragging rights. “Earn Your Whoopie Pie” with a 1K kids fun run or 3K race/walk Saturday morning, then browse and enjoy the arts, crafts, and foods while listening to live music. There are also rides and games for kids of all ages, whoopie pie-eating contests, and more. MAINEWHOOPIEPIEFESTIVAL.COM

MAINE LOBSTER FESTIVAL ROCKLAND

The Maine Lobster Festival is five days of fun and feasting on the fabulous coast of Maine! This annual seafood festival is set for Aug. 2-6, 2023. The Maine Lobster Festival attracts tens of thousands of visitors to Rockland each year with the promise of fresh, local lobster dinners, nationally renowned entertainers, cooking contests, activities for all ages, Maine craftsmen and artists. MAINELOBSTERFESTIVAL.COM

MOXIE FESTIVAL LISBON FALLS

Love it or hate it, this festival celebrates that famous Maine soft drink with the funny aftertaste. Set for July 7-9, 2023, events include a parade, 5k road race, delicious food, car show, children’s activities, Moxie chugging contest, and fireworks. MOXIEFESTIVAL.COM

Eat & Drink

Food Festivals

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THE KNEADING CONFERENCE & BREAD FAIR SKOWHEGAN

Who doesn’t love bread? Bread, grains, flour, and farms are the focus of the annual Kneading Conference, coming July 26-28, 2023. The Kneading Conference brings together grainiacs and bread buffs from all over the country at the Skowhegan State Fairgrounds. Farmers, bakers, brewers, cooks, grain researchers, maltsters, and more gather to educate one another about the art and science of growing and milling grains, baking artisan breads and brewing delicious beer. And on Saturday, July 29, 2023, the Maine Artisan Bread Fair takes over the fairgrounds.

KNEADINGCONFERENCE.COM

PLOYE FESTIVAL FORT KENT

The Ploye Festival is Fort Kent’s annual tribute to the iconic Acadian buckwheat pancake. Kick off summer with the 23rd annual event set for the first weekend of summer. Events typically include tractor pulls, local artisans and musicians sharing their talent, and the making of the world’s largest ploye by Bouchard Family Farms.

FORTKENTCHAMBER.COM

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Eat & Drink

Food Festivals

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MAINE RED HOT DOG FESTIVAL DEXTER

The 2023 Maine Red Hot Dog Festival will take place on August 12 in downtown Dexter! Enjoy this iconic Maine dish along with live music all day including Crazy Train (Ozzy Osbourne tribute band), kids zone, 5K Bun-Run, beer and wine tents, eating contests, food and craft vendors, plenty of red snappers, and more. REDHOTDOG.ORG

MACHIAS WILD BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL MACHIAS

Come celebrate the powerful little fruit that put this corner of Down East Maine on the map. Centre Street Congregational Church rolls out the blue carpet each August with crafts, food, entertainment, contests, and all things blueberry. There’s no admission charge. Mark your calendar for Aug. 18-20, 2023. MACHIASBLUEBERRY.COM

Eat & DrinkMaine Brews

IT’S NO SECRET that Maine breweries offer some of the best beers in the world. From hazy New England IPAs to crisp lagers, incredible craft brewers can be found all over the state, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy a cold brew. Visit your local tap room, restaurant, or make a day of it with a Maine brewery tour.

GREAT FALLS BREWFEST LEWISTON

The Great Falls Brewfest is coming June 24, 2023, for the eighth annual event in Lewiston, featuring more than 50 breweries (cider, non-alcoholic, and hard seltzer, too), food, vendors, live music, and more. This event is one of Maine’s favorite beer festivals and draws nearly 2,000 attendees each year. Presented by Baxter Brewing Co. BAXTEROUTDOORS.COM

SKOWHEGAN CRAFT BREW FEST

The Skowhegan Craft Brew Festival marks the unofficial close of summer, annually on the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend, this year on Sept. 2, 2023, in historic downtown Skowhegan. Enjoy beer tastings, food trucks, and more.

SKOWHEGANCRAFTBREWFEST.COM

EXPERIENCE MAINE • SUMMER 2023

WAVY DAYS BEER FEST

PORTLAND

Mast Landing's Wavy Days Beer Fest features 50 guest breweries from all around the country, pouring their beers in Portland to celebrate summer. Mark your calendar for Aug. 5 at Thompson’s Point. Enjoy great beers, excellent people, and a festive vibe in the heart of Vacationland.

WAVYDAYSFEST.COM

A Bookworm Adventure

YOUR GUIDE TO FINDING LITTLE FREE LIBRARIES FOR YOUR NEXT BEACH READ

BY MARISSA DONOVAN

SUNBLOCK? Check! Towel and swimsuit? Double check! A book to read while relaxing? Well, that’s not always easy to find. It may not be something you even considered packing in your L.L. Bean tote bag. Maybe you feel uninspired by your bookshelf. Maybe you’ve been in a

reading slump. Maybe you’re only reading what’s on your child’s back-to-school list. Whatever your situation, get inspired with a mini summer adventure exploring the Little Free Libraries scattered around Maine.

Little Free Libraries are mailbox-like resources placed in front of homes and in public spaces. Each one holds a variety of preloved books, which you can exchange for a book from your personal collection. The Little Free Libraries website (littlefreelibrary. org) and app for your phone, map out which ones are close by based on the city and state you search. And there are many that are unmarked. It’s best to keep an eye out during your dog-day excursions.

While I haven’t personally had a chance to visit all of Maine’s Little Free Libraries (there are more than 50 in Greater Bangor alone), there are a few that I frequent. And I’ve figured out how to find the five-star reads.

Posted on the left side of Stephen King’s house is one that holds a special memory for me. A few summers ago I opened the small, blue door to the shelves of books and found an almost-new hardcover of “The Mothers” by Brit Bennett. This is what I would call a lucky find. A book that’s been on

your radar, and you just happen to stumble upon it when you least expect it. Have the mentality of an optimistic rookie on a fishing trip — you might just reel in a big catch. It’s bound to happen eventually, but it may not happen every trip. That’s what makes it special. It’s sometimes a matter of patience with the process and pure luck if you really want a great book.

There’s also the novelty of visiting a Little Free Library near a beach during the summer. I’ve enjoyed checking out the Free Little Libraries in Deer Isle and Sargentville. There is usually an excellent selection. Plus it’s a quick drive to Sylvester’s Cove in Deer Isle or Sand Beach in Stonington.

And it’s not just novels for adults. You might find “The Baby-Sitters Club” series, “Goosebumps” paperbacks, children’s books by Robert McCloskey, and more to inspire young readers on their summer vacation.

Be warned that if you pass up a book you desire, you will regret it later! I should have snagged the copy of “Still Life with Woodpecker” by Tom Robbins when I saw it.

Once you’ve found the book you’re taking to cool off by the water, leave a book for someone else to enjoy. Take a moment to tidy up the placement of the books if needed, and leave with the serotonin of enjoying one of the little things in life.

Little Free Library on Church Street in Deer Isle.

PHOTOS: (LITTLE FREE LIBRARY PHOTOS) MARISSA DONOVAN; (TOP) AREKMALANG/ADOBE STOCK

Little Free Library in front of the Sargentville Public Library.

Little Free Library near Stephen King's house in Bangor.

active & Outdoors

TREK ACROSS MAINE BRUNSWICK

Maine’s biggest and best family reunion is back. See old friends, make new ones, and enjoy the 38th annual Trek Across Maine, with an inperson cycle this Father’s Day weekend, June 16-18, 2023. Fundraising from this event goes to help the American Lung Association. ACTION.LUNG.ORG

OPEN FARM DAY STATEWIDE

Open Farm Day, set for July 23, 2023, lets you see how your food is made, with many farms offering demonstrations, displays, farm-raised products for sale and animals and crops to experience. Activities may include barn and field tours, hay rides, petting zoos, tastings, nature trails and more. REALMAINE.COM

PORTLAND SEA DOGS

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL GAMES

HADLOCK FIELD, PORTLAND

It’s time to root, root, root for the home team! Maine’s very own minor league baseball team plays in Portland’s Hadlock Field. With affordable tickets and concessions, it’s a perfect way to enjoy the great American pastime with the whole family. Check online for a full schedule of games and to purchase tickets. SEADOGS.COM

CROWN OF MAINE BALLOON FEST PRESQUE ISLE

Aroostook County is steeped in ballooning history. In 1978, the Double Eagle II launched from Presque Isle and made the first successful crossing of the Atlantic Ocean. In 1984, Joe Kittinger became the first person to make the solo transatlantic balloon journey, launching from Caribou. In 2013, Jonathan Trappe launched his attempted transatlantic balloon flight using 365 individual helium balloons and established a world record for distance, when he landed in Newfoundland. Celebrate this high flying tradition Aug. 24-27, 2023 with hot air balloons, balloon rides by reservation, a street fair, children and family activities, a pancake breakfast, music, food and more. COMBF.ORG

active & Outdoors

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NORDIC TRAIL FESTIVAL PRESQUE ISLE

The Nordic Heritage Sport Club hosts this outdoor adventure weekend, set for July 28-30, 2023, celebrating community, trails and lifestyle. Whether you want to tackle the trails for a day of hiking, running or biking, or relax and take part in a variety of events, this weekend should not be missed. Enjoy live music, games for young and old, contests, food, racing and the awesome trails of the Nordic Heritage Center, all with the spectacular backdrop of a Northern Maine summer!

NORDICTRAILFESTIVAL.COM

TOUGH MOUNTAIN CHALLENGE NEWRY

Can you handle it? The Tough Mountain Challenge, set for July 22, 2023, offers a fun adventure obstacle race in the mountains of Maine at Sunday River Ski Resort, combining alpine terrain with natural and manmade obstacles. At approximately 5K in length, it may look like an easy hike, but you'll change your mind as soon as you take off running up a mountain under an arsenal of snow guns or scrambling through the mud.

TOUGHMOUNTAIN.COM

active & Outdoors

FORT KENT INTERNATIONAL MUSKIE DERBY

FORT KENT

Muskie fishing is considered one of the greatest freshwater sports fish challenges in all of North America. The scenic St. John River has more than 225 miles of prime habitat for Muskie fishing. Mark your calendar for Aug. 4-6, 2023 to join in this annual tradition in Fort Kent, and reel in the big one. FORTKENT-MUSKIE.COM

film, dance & Theater

PENOBSCOT THEATRE’S “MARY POPPINS”

BANGOR

The Penobscot Theatre presents “Mary Poppins” this summer, from June 15 to July 16. A musical inspired by the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, this uplifting and high-energy musical is sure to delight all ages. The Banks family needs a bit of magic — cue a strong wind that delivers to their doorstep the amazing and everdelightful Mary Poppins. PENOBSCOTTHEATRE.ORG

OPERA HOUSE ARTS AT THE STONINGTON OPERA HOUSE

STONINGTON

Opera House Arts is excited to bring a mix of returning favorites, Maine artists they’re welcoming for the first time, and nationally acclaimed performers to the historic Stonington Opera House. A full schedule can be found online. OPERAHOUSEARTS.ORG

CAMDEN SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL CAMDEN

Shakespeare returns to the Camden Amphitheatre with “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” from July 12 to Aug. 6. And watch for additional performances in Bath, Bowdoinham, and Monson.

CAMDENSHAKESPEARE.ORG

THE THEATER AT MONMOUTH SUMMER PERFORMANCES MONMOUTH

TAM’s 54th season explores Shakespeare’s flawed rulers in “Richard II” and forest-dwelling lovers in “As You Like It,” Peterson and O’Hare’s modern take on the repercussions of war in “An Iliad,” Wilde’s effervescent wit and wisdom in “The Importance of Being Earnest,” and Bartram & Hill’s exploration on the reach of the bonds of friendship in “The Story of My Life.” TAM’s Brave New Worlds

Season is a lesson in humanity that will tickle your funny bone with one hand and pluck your heartstrings with the other. Go online for show dates and times.

THEATERATMONMOUTH.ORG

film, dance &Theater

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MAINE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL WATERVILLE

The 26th Maine International Film Festival is set for July 7-16, 2023 in Waterville. Festival attendees will have the opportunity to see a unique slate of approximately 100 films, including premieres, made-in-Maine features, classic revivals, and short films from around the world. Go online for details. MIFF.ORG

OPERA MAINE PERFORMANCES PORTLAND

Together with internationally recognized conductors, directors, and opera singers, Opera Maine — the state’s only professional opera company — presents original, creative, and inspiring productions. Catch “Cinderella” July 27 and 30. An original production of Gioachino Rossini’s comedic masterpiece, La Cenerentola (Cinderella), this delightful version of the beloved dustbin-to-palace tale of Cinderella is certain to enchant audiences of all ages.

OPERAMAINE.COM

TEN BUCKS THEATRE: SHAKESPEARE UNDER THE STARS

BREWER AND PROSPECT

Ten Bucks Theatre is excited to present William Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” this summer under the stars. The show opens July 20 and runs through Aug. 6 at Indian Trail Park in Brewer and Fort Knox in Prospect.

TENBUCKSTHEATRE.ORG

STRAND THEATRE

ROCKLAND

Enjoy films, concerts, and special events at Strand Theatre in Rockland. Check out bilingual, multiinstrumentalist, and former member of the Grammy Award-winning African-American string band Carolina Chocolate Drops, Leyla McCalla on July 25, among many other exciting live performances. Advanced tickets available.

ROCKLANDSTRAND.COM

Arts & Museums

SCHOODIC ARTS FOR ALL FESTIVAL WINTER HARBOR

This year marks the 25th year of the Schoodic Arts Festival, which provides visual and performing arts workshops and performances for the Schoodic Peninsula and the surrounding region. This year’s festival will take place from July 23 through Aug. 12, including a wide variety of workshops, lunchtime events, and evening performances. These exciting workshops cover topics ranging from painting to pottery, writing to dance, cooking, and everything in between.

FIRST FRIDAYS DOWNTOWN BANGOR

Celebrate the first Friday of every month in historic downtown Bangor with shopping, dining, arts, music, and more. Trunk shows, restaurant discounts, jazz, theater, art receptions and more will keep visitors entertained all over downtown Bangor.

DOWNTOWNBANGOR.ORG

HAYSTACK MOUNTAIN SCHOOL OF CRAFTS SUMMER WORKSHOPS DEER ISLE

Haystack’s 2023 season explores the intersections of craft, art, and design in broad and expansive ways. Nearly all workshops are designed for all levels of experience, regardless of your background. Writing workshops, artist talks, crafting and blacksmithing demonstrations are all on summer schedule and much more.

HAYSTACK-MTN.ORG

SCHOODICARTSFORALL.ORG

MAINE CELTIC CELEBRATION BELFAST

Come enjoy a family-friendly day celebrating Celtic heritage, culture, and hospitality in Maine with lots of fun on the Belfast waterfront. Activities include highland heavy games, cheese roll, celtic music, a dog show, fireworks, and more. Coming July 21-23, 2023.

MAINECELTICCELEBRATION.COM

MAINE QUILTS 2023 AUGUSTA

Pine Tree Quilters presents its annual quilting celebration July 27-29 at the Augusta Civic Center. Enjoy workshops, demonstrations, lectures, raffles, and a merchants hall, along with a variety of special exhibits. MAINEQUILTS.ORG

EASTPORT & LUBEC ARTWALKS EASTPORT AND LUBEC

The Eastport & Lubec Artwalks celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage, with all-ages, all-inclusive interactive art activities, gallery receptions, live music, film, dance, storytelling, puppetry, parades, and more. This year’s events include a Pride Weekend on June 22-25, Mermaid Festival Aug. 3-6, and Witches of Eastport on Oct. 21.

BASSLADY.COM/ARTWALK

ARTS IN THE PARK

BELFAST

Set this year for June 24-25, 2023, in Belfast’s Steamboat Landing Park along the waterfront, Arts in the Park is one of the most respected fine arts and crafts festivals in midcoast Maine. The variety of artwork and crafts is dizzying, and continuous live music and the smells of freshly grilled food add to the festival atmosphere.

BELFASTMAINE.ORG

STILLWATER ARTSAPALOOZA ORONO

A date for this yearly celebration of community arts in the Orono area has yet to be posted. Venues across Orono typically showcase music, theater, dance, poetry and more, in an all-day, family-friendly artistic extravaganza. The event is organized by Stillwater Community Arts. Check the website for updates!

STILLWATERCOMMUNITY ARTS.ORG

arts & Museums

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MAINE MARITIME MUSEUM

BATH

Experience Maine’s vibrant maritime culture on the banks of the Kennebec River. Open yearround, this 20-acre waterfront campus includes the country's only surviving historic wooden shipyard, rotating exhibits, blacksmith demos, a historic home, and more. Free admission for 17 and under. MAINEMARITIMEMUSEUM.ORG

BOOTHBAY RAILWAY VILLAGE

BOOTHBAY

Spend a fun-filled day discovering 35 acres of Maine history brought to life. Ride the rails behind an authentic steam locomotive surrounded by historic Maine buildings preserved in a recreated village, and view a collection of 60 antique autos or model trains. Summer events include Antique Auto Day on July 15, including a vintage car show, and Children’s Day on Aug. 13. RAILWAYVILLAGE.ORG

SUMMER SIDEWALK

ART FESTIVAL

DOWNTOWN BANGOR

Enjoy work from a juried selection of artists, plus demonstrations, live drawing, live music, food vendors, children’s area, and more. All happening July 8, 2023, in downtown Bangor. DOWNTOWNBANGOR.COM

SK TOURS BANGOR

Stephen King Tour owner and guide Stu Tinker leads tours of Derry, I mean Bangor, for folks from all over the world. Tinker gives an expert’s tour of sites in the Queen City represented in King’s novels. Plan your trip now. SK-TOURS.COM

visit a Museum

AROOSTOOK COUNTY

LITTLETON

SOUTHERN AROOSTOOK

AGRICULTURAL MUSEUM

1664 US Highway 1 • 538-9300 oldplow.net

NEW SWEDEN

NEW SWEDEN HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM

116 Station Road • 896-5240 maineswedishcolony.info

OAKFIELD

OAKFIELD RAILROAD MUSEUM 40 Station Street • 267-1647

PRESQUE ISLE

NORTHERN MAINE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE

UMaine Presque Isle

181 Main Street • 768-9482 pages.umpi.edu/nmms/museum

ST. AGATHA

STE. AGATHE HISTORICAL SOCIETY & HOUSE

Route 162, Main Street • 543-6911 ste-agathehistoricalsociety.com

ST. FRANCIS

ST. FRANCIS HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

872 Main Street • 398-3387

VAN BUREN

ACADIAN VILLAGE

U.S. Route 1 • 868-2691 connectmaine.com/acadianvillage

WOODLAND

WOODLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUMS

999-1890 or 493-1376

HANCOCK COUNTY

BAR HARBOR ABBE MUSEUM

26 Mt. Desert Street • 822-3519 abbemuseum.org

BAR HARBOR HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

33 Ledgelawn Avenue • 288-0000 barharborhistorical.org

GEORGE B. DORR MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

105 Eden Street • 288-5395 coamuseum.org

MOUNT DESERT OCEANARIUM & LOBSTER HATCHERY

1351 State Highway 3 • 244-7330 theoceanarium.com

SIEUR DE MONTS SPRING & NATURE CENTER

Off Route 3 in Acadia National Park acadia.ws/sieur-de-monts.htm

CASTINE

WILSON MUSEUM

120 Perkins Street • 326-9247 wilsonmuseum.org

DEER ISLE

SALOME SELLERS HOUSE

416 Sunset Road • 367-2629 dis-historicalsociety.org/the-sellers-house

ELLSWORTH

BIRDSACRE-STANWOOD

WILDLIFE SANCTUARY & HOMESTEAD

289 High Street • 667-8460 birdsacre.com

THE TELEPHONE MUSEUM

166 Winkumpaugh Road • 667-9491 thetelephonemuseum.org

WOODLAWN MUSEUM

19 Black House Drive • 667-8671 woodlawnmuseum.org

NORTHEAST HARBOR

GREAT HARBOR MARITIME

MUSEUM

124 Main Street • 276-5650 greatharbor.mainememory.net

SEAL COVE

SEAL COVE AUTO MUSEUM

1414 Tremont Road • 244-9242 sealcoveautomuseum.org

SOUTHWEST HARBOR

WENDELL GILLEY MUSEUM

4 Herrick Road • 244-7555 wendellgilleymuseum.org

KENNEBEC COUNTY

WATERVILLE

COLBY MUSEUM OF ART

5600 Mayflower Hill • 859-5600 colby.edu/museum

KNOX COUNTY

CAMDEN CAMDEN–ROCKPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY CONWAY HOMESTEADCRAMER MUSEUM COMPLEX

U.S. Route 1 • 236-2257 visitmaine.com/organization/camdenrockport-historical-society

FRIENDSHIP

FRIENDSHIP MUSEUM

Route 220 & Martin’s Point Road 832-4221 • friendshipmuseum.org

OWLS HEAD OWLS HEAD TRANSPORTATION

MUSEUM

Route 73 • 594-4418 • owlshead.org

ROCKLAND COASTAL CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

75 Mechanic Street • 596.0300 coastalchildrensmuseum.org

FARNSWORTH ART MUSEUM & WYETH CENTER

16 Museum Street • 596-6457 farnsworthmuseum.org

MAINE LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM

1 Park Drive • 594-3301 mainelighthousemuseum.com

ROCKPORT CENTER FOR MAINE CONTEMPORARY ART

162 Russell Avenue • 701-5005 cmcanow.org

THOMASTON GENERAL HENRY KNOX MUSEUM

U.S. Route 1 • 354-8062 knoxmuseum.org

THOMASTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM

80 Knox Street • 354-2295 thomastonhistoricalsociety.com

UNION

MATTHEWS MUSEUM OF MAINE Heritage Union Fairgrounds matthewsmuseum.org

VINALHAVEN VINALHAVEN HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

High Street • 863-4410 vinalhavenhistoricalsociety.org

LINCOLN COUNTY

BOOTHBAY BOOTHBAY RAILWAY VILLAGE MUSEUM

586 Wiscasset Road, Boothbay (207) 633-4727 railwayvillage.org

PENOBSCOT COUNTY

BANGOR BANGOR MUSEUM & HISTORY

CENTER’S HILL HOUSE

159 Union Street • 942-1900 bangorhistoricalsociety.org

BANGOR POLICE MUSEUM

240 Main Street • 947-7384

COLE LAND TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM

405 Perry Road • 990-3600 colemuseum.org

MAINE DISCOVERY MUSEUM

74 Main Street • 262-7200 mainediscoverymuseum.org

UNIVERSITY OF MAINE

MUSEUM OF ART

40 Harlow Street • Norumbega Hall 561-3350 • umma.umaine.edu

BRADLEY LEONARD’S MILLS

Government Road • 974-6278 leonardsmills.com

BREWER

BREWER HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S CLEWLEY MUSEUM

199 Wilson Street • 989-5013 brewerhistoricalsociety.org

DEXTER DEXTER HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUMS 12 Church Street • 924-5721 dextermaine.info/historical-society

HAMPDEN HAMPDEN HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S KINSLEY HOUSE MUSEUMS

83 Main Road S. Route 1A • 862-2027 hampdenhistoricalsociety.org/ kinsley-house

INDIAN ISLAND

PENOBSCOT INDIAN NATION MUSEUM

12 Wabanaki Way • 827-4153 penobscotnation.org

LEE LEE HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM Main Street (Route 6) • 738-5014 MILLINOCKET MILLINOCKET HISTORICAL MUSEUM

80 Central St. • 723-5477 millinockethistoricalsociety.org

OLD TOWN OLD TOWN MUSEUM 353 Main St. • 827-7256 theoldtownmuseum.org

ORONO HUDSON MUSEUM

University of Maine Collins Center for the Arts

581-1904 • umaine.edu/hudsonmuseum

PAGE FARM & HOME MUSEUM Portage Road • 581-4100 umaine.edu/pagefarm

PATTEN

THE PATTEN LUMBERMEN’S MUSEUM

61 Shin Pond Road • 528-2650 lumbermensmuseum.org

PISCATAQUIS COUNTY

DOVER-FOXCROFT

BLACKSMITH SHOP MUSEUM

100 Dawes Road • 564-8618

GREENVILLE

S/S KATAHDIN & MOOSEHEAD MARINE

MUSEUM

N. Main Street, East Cove • 695-2716 katahdincruises.com

MONSON

MONSON MUSEUM

Greenville Road (Main Street) 557-7769 monsonmehistoricalsociety.com

SAGADAHOC COUNTY

BATH

MAINE MARITIME MUSEUM

243 Washington Street, Bath • 443-1316 mainemaritimemuseum.org

WALDO COUNTY

BELFAST

BELFAST HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM

10 Market Street • 338-9229 belfastmuseum.org

ISLESBORO ISLESBORO HISTORICAL SOCIETY

388 Main Road • 734-6733 islesborohistorical.org

LIBERTY

DAVISTOWN MUSEUM

58 Main Street • 288-5126 davistownmuseum.org

LINCOLNVILLE LINCOLNVILLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM Route 173 • 789-5445

SEARSPORT PENOBSCOT MARINE MUSEUM

5 Church Street & Route 1 • 548-2529 penobscotmarinemuseum.org

WASHINGTON COUNTY

CHERRYFIELD

CHERRYFIELD-NARRAGUAGUS HISTORICAL SOCIETY

88 River Road • 546-2076 cherryfieldhistorical.com

EASTPORT

RAYE’S MUSTARD MILL MUSEUM

83 Washington Street • (800) 853-1903 rayesmustard.com

TIDES INSTITUTE & MUSEUM OF ART

43 Water Street • 853-4047 tidesinstitute.org

JONESPORT

MAINE COAST SARDINE HISTORY MUSEUM

34 Mason Bay Road • 497-2961 mainesardinemuseum.tripod.com

LUBEC LUBEC HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

135 Main Street • 733-2994 lubechistoricalsociety.com

ROBERT S. PEACOCK FIRE MUSEUM 40 School Street • 733-2341

WEST QUODDY HEAD VISITOR CENTER & MUSEUM

South Lubec Road • 733-2180 westquoddy.com

MACHIAS BURNHAM TAVERN MUSEUM Route 192 • 733-4577 burnhamtavern.com

MILBRIDGE MILBRIDGE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

83 Main Street • 546-4471 milbridgehistoricalsociety.org

Visit Downtown Bangor

DOWNTOWN BANGOR is full of entertainment options open all year long — and really comes alive during the summer. The active and community-supported landscape of arts and culture is constant and provides a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere to all. From large festivals, concerts, and theater, to showcases from local artisans and musicians, there is always something to enjoy in downtown Bangor.

DINING & SHOPPING

Diners will be happy to hear the al-

SIDEWALK ART FESTIVAL

Downtown Bangor welcomes artists and

Dining

With over 40 restaurants, bars & nightlife venues to choose from...

You can experience Thai, Irish, Japanese, Indian, Mexican, Italian, and of course, classic Maine dishes all within downtown Bangor!

Dining

With over 40 restaurants, bars & nightlife venues to choose from...

You can experience Thai, Irish, Japanese, Indian, Mexican, Italian, and of course, classic Maine dishes all within downtown Bangor!

Indian,

Experience maine EVENTS

JOIN US IN DOWNTOWN BANGOR

FIRST FRIDAYS

A night of food, fun, shopping & entertainment for all ages on the first Friday of each month!

5/5 • CINCO DE MAYO

6/2 • PRIDE/EQUALITY

7/7 • SUMMER KICKOFF

8/4 • WILD BLUEBERRIES

9/1 • BACK TO SCHOOL

10/6 • ARTOBER

SIDEWALK ART FESTIVAL

JULY 8, 2023 • HARLOW STREET

Enjoy a curated, juried selection of artists, and 40+ vendors, demonstrations, live drawing, live music and a childrens area!

SPONSORED BY

VISIT DOWNTOWN BANGOR.COM

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38

There will be over 40 vendors on Harlow Street and in Pierce Park, featuring art for sale in nearly every medium.

LIBRARY

The Bangor Public Library has a full events calendar, including book clubs, technology tutoring, author talks and one-off workshops like photography throughout the summer. And did you know the library features four rotating art galleries with works from Maine artists? The exhibits change every two months, so there’s always something new to see. The library is also one of many architecturally fascinating buildings in downtown Bangor, with its distinctive copper-framed dome and large fireplaces on the first floor. Visit bangorpubliclibrary.org.

FIRST FRIDAYS

First Fridays events are held in many cities across the country and provide an opportunity for artists and arts organizations, businesses, and individuals to gather and support their communities with a variety of programming designed to increase engagement.

Downtown Bangor’s first First Friday will feature special performances, numerous art openings, artists talks, restaurant specials, and kid friendly activities!

FOR DETAILS ON ALL THESE EVENTS AND MORE, VISIT DOWNTOWNBANGOR.COM.

family-friendly Day Trips

TRIP

SEA STARS SHINE BRIGHT AT TIDAL FALLS

IT’S no secret that celebrities love to visit Vacationland, especially in the summer. However, the state has its fair share of local celebrities too. Some of Maine’s most colorful stars can be seen daily at the Tidal Falls Preserve in Hancock. At low tide, this Maine destination puts on quite a show and the celebrities of this incredible coastal feature are the starfish themselves.

“You just turn over a rock and there are starfish of all different sizes and colors,” said visitor Meg Carson of Belfast.

The starfish found at Tidal Falls can be purple, orange, or any shade of pink. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), starfish or sea stars, are related to sand dollars, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers, all of which are echinoderms, meaning that they have fivepoint radial symmetry.

“We were lifting rocks and finding 11, 15, and 17 of them,” Carson said. “They’re just so beautiful to see.”

Sea stars live underwater but that is where their resemblance to fish ends, according to NOAA, because these creatures do not have gills, scales, or fins. Sea stars live only in saltwater. Sea water, instead of blood, is actually used to pump nutrients through their bodies via a ‘water vascular system.’

However, Tidal Falls, where so many of these creatures can be seen close-up, offers more than just star appeal.

“Tidal Falls is a special location because it features one of Maine’s eight reversing falls,” said Ellie Ezekiel, director of communications and community engagement at the Frenchman Bay Conservatory. “Twice each day, the Taunton River flows backwards and then forward, oscillating between roaring rapids and calm, smooth water. The phenomenon is found in locations where rivers must pass through a narrow passage to meet the sea. The mixing of fresh and saltwater creates a nutrient-rich environment that is incredibly productive for wildlife.”

Visitors have often shared that in addition to seeing starfish, they’ve spotted seals, crabs, loons, eagles, and many other creatures during their trip to this coveted spot.

Ezekiel said although a visitation count is not recorded at the preserve, members of the Frenchman Bay Conservatory estimate that more than 1,000 visitors stop by each year with peak visitation happening during July and August.

“Mornings are the quietest time at the reserve,” Ezekiel said. “But I encourage people to visit the falls at different times of the day to see the changing tides.”

A new addition to the Tidal Falls Preserve is the preserve’s Exploration Center, which is scheduled to open in late May.

“The Exploration Center is a self-guided nature exploration space which will provide hands-on learning opportunities for our visitors,” Ezekiel said. “It was originally located in our Office Headquarters, but this year will be relocated to the pavilion on the lower preserve, closer to the water. The Exploration Center will have maps, an interactive touch table, field guides, exploration kits for children, and more.”

So, whether you’re searching for the stars or just looking for a chance to see Maine’s underworld, a trip to Tidal Falls Preserve in Hancock is a great spot to enjoy both activities.

#1:

ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JODI HERSEY

family-friendly Day Trips

TRIP #2: THE BEAUTY OF SEARS ISLAND

HERSEY

IF you’re looking for peace and tranquility mixed with fresh air, Sears Island is the place to be. Located in Waldo County, at the end of Sears Island Road, there is a causeway where visitors park their vehicles and travel on foot or bicycle to enjoy the small island in the Penobscot River known as Sears Island. Visiting this little getaway you’ll find sand, walking trails, wildlife, and so much more.

“Rich in wild beauty, Sears Island serves as an easily accessible spot for a short, peaceful stroll or a more ambitious outing,” said Rolf Olsen, board member of Friends of Sears Island. “The island offers miles of trails and shoreline to explore, including opportunities for wildlife watching, discovering abundant botanical and geological features, and spotting historic sites.”

As noted in the book “A History of Sears Island” by Joel Eastman, the island was originally known as Wassumkeag by the Native Americans, which means bright sand beach. This island changed ownership over the decades before being purchased by David Sears in 1813. Ownership was then passed down through four generations of the Sears family before it returned to its more natural state, which locals viewed as a public recreation area.

In the late 1980s, the state claimed 50 acres of the land by eminent domain and

purchased most of the remainder in 1997 with an agreement to place 601 acres in permanent conservation. According to the Friends of Sears Island website, the Maine Coast Heritage Trust holds the conservation easement, and the Friends of Sears Island are the land’s caretakers, responsible for the natural and cultural resources.

“People of all ages, from all over the Midcoast region and beyond, enjoy and appreciate Sears Island,” said Olsen. “It’s easy to get to. It’s free to everyone, with many miles of trails and beaches, and it’s almost never crowded, even on a beautiful summer day.”

Sometimes, depending on the tide, visitors enjoying the shoreline can spot beautiful shells, crabs, a jellyfish or two, and even a man-made rope swing which youngsters can’t help grabbing a hold of and swinging through the air while listening to the background music provided by a variety of birds.

One of the newest additions to Sears Island is a StoryWalk® along Sears Island’s Homestead Trail, created by the Carver Memorial Library and the Friends of Sears Island. The trail itself is just over a half mile long and is part of what was the original road that led to the Sears family farm. Each page of the book is laminated and placed on a wide backer board attached to a wooden

stake. These stakes are placed at different spots along the trail building enthusiasm for the next page of the story.

“We try to focus on things related to Sears Island, so we usually pick something related to nature, animals, or islands,” explained Sue McClintock, director of the Carver Memorial Library.

“Families with children especially enjoy our StoryWalk®,” Olsen said. “We also offer education programs for families with students, whether in school or home schooled. And for adults, we offer programs like yoga on the beach, monarch butterfly tagging, and more.”

According to Olsen, the annual Summer Solstice on June 21 always draws a crowd to Sears Island. The event includes live music, food, and fun activities for kids. However, there truly isn’t a bad time of year to visit this gem in Waldo County. Whether you’re in search of a getaway or a go-to destination, Sears Island is a great place where relaxation and learning can peacefully coincide along the shores of Maine.

ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JODI

kids & Family

GREAT MAINE LUMBERJACK SHOW TRENTON

Watch Timber Tina and her crew chopping, log rolling, throwing axes, speed climbing in more in this fun display of Maine lumberjack skills. Shows nightly at 7 p.m. beginning Memorial Day Weekend. Tickets available at the door and online. MAINELUMBERJACK.COM

OWLS HEAD TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM OWLS HEAD

If you’ve got a youngster who can’t get enough of vehicles, be it trucks, cars, motorcycles, or planes, then a visit to the Owls Head Transportation Museum is a must. OHTM’s mission is to collect, preserve, exhibit, and operate pre-1940 aircraft, ground vehicles, engines, and related technologies significant to the evolution of transportation for the purpose of education. The OHTM is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. OWLSHEAD.ORG

EMERA ASTRONOMY CENTER & JORDAN PLANETARIUM ORONO

Have a hankering to explore space? With dark skies and little light pollution, Maine is one the best states to catch great views of the stars. The Emera Astronomy Center & Jordan Planetarium banks on that with weekly planetarium programs, music shows, and more. Tickets may be purchased online, by phone at 207-581-1341, or at the ticket box office prior to the show.

ASTRO.UMAINE.EDU

SPRINGFIELD FAIR SPRINGFIELD

Mark your calendar June 15-18 for the 173rd Springfield Fair. The fun includes truck pulls, a classic and antique car show, Iron Woman Triathlon, pie contests, eel racing, pig scramble, horse show, bubble gumblowing contest, and so much more.

THESPRINGFIELDFAIR.COM

BELFAST AND MOOSEHEAD LAKE RAILROAD TRAIN RIDES

UNITY TO BELFAST

From a scenic ride along the Sebasticook River bridge to a train offering pizza and whoopie pies, there’s something for everyone on the Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad. Find a full list of events and excursions leaving from the Unity Depot online.

MOOSEHEADLAKERAIL.ORG

THURSDAYS ON SWEDEN CARIBOU

Spend Thursdays on Sweden Street with live music, vendors, food, and fun for the whole family in downtown Caribou. Mark your calendar for June 1, June 15, June 29, July 13, July 27, and Aug. 10.

CARIBOUMAINE.ORG

COASTAL MAINE BOTANICAL GARDENS

BOOTHBAY

The grounds of the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are a garden-lover’s paradise. From cultured gardens and swaths of native plants to woodland and wetland trails traversing 300 acres on the coast of Maine, there is so much to see and explore with the entire family. The buildings and central gardens are ADA compliant, making them fully wheelchair and stroller accessible. Find a full list of events online.

MAINEGARDENS.ORG

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM & THEATRE OF MAINE PORTLAND

The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine is located on Thompson's Point in Portland and features a wide variety of interactive exhibits, activities, and theater for children and families. Visit their website for a list of summer events. KITETAILS.ORG

...CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

kids & Family

...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 47

MAINE POTATO BLOSSOM FESTIVAL FORT FAIRFIELD

The 2023 Maine Potato Blossom Festival is scheduled for July 10-18, 2023. Celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage and honoring veterans, events include a parade, BBQ cook-off, horseshoe and cornhole tournaments, Tough Tater obstacle courses, live music, children’s activities, pageants, vendors, road race, golf tournament, and more.

FORTFAIRFIELD.ORG

THOMAS POINT BEACH BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL BRUNSWICK

The Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival brings bluegrass music and family to the shores of midcoast Maine. This four-day event, from Aug. 31 to Sept. 3, 2023 features worldrenowned acts and legendary late-night picking.

THOMASPOINTBEACHBLUEGRASS.COM

BELFAST HARBOR FEST AND CLASSIC BOAT SHOW BELFAST

Celebrate the boating traditions of Belfast from Aug. 18-20, 2023, at Steamboat Landing & Heritage Park. Events include an Evening by the Bay Charity Auction, pancake breakfast, Boat Building Challenge, music, kids’ activities, touch tank, delicious food, Touch-a-Truck, and much more.

BELFASTHARBORFEST.COM

BANGOR STATE FAIR BANGOR

The Bangor State Fair returns to Bass Park for another year of rides, food, fun, music, games, people-watching, and much more. The Bangor State Fair typically draws between 40,000 and 50,000 people each year and dates back to 1849. Mark your calendar for Aug. 3-6.

BANGORSTATEFAIR.COM

EASTPORT PIRATE FESTIVAL EASTPORT

Arrgh! Grab your eyepatch and head to this celebration of all things pirate. Coming Sept. 8-10, 2023 to Eastport, this fun-filled event includes a scavenger hunt, pirate parade, pop-up street skits, costume contests, street dance, and more. Warm up your shanty singing voice and mark your calendar.

EASTPORTPIRATEFESTIVAL.COM