TOWNS CASTINE Settled in 1604, the historic town of
Castine is one of the oldest in the nation and the only town on the Peninsula to have been occupied at various times by the French, the Dutch and the English. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Penobscot River estuary, along with such colorful figures as Paul Revere and the Baron de St. Castin, made the town a notable trading and maritime center, and a prominent player in the fight for American independence. Today, Castine offers walking tours of its historic buildings, including three forts and Dyce’s Head Lighthouse. It is home to Maine Maritime Academy, and it’s downtown offers a wonderful mix of architectural gems, gracious hospitality and fine dining. Shops and galleries dot the hilly streets leading down to the waterfront.
Summer season in Castine offers something for everyone. Our 4th of July celebration includes a parade, firetruck rides, hot dogs, watermelon and a variety of children events on Town Common- a real “slice of Americana!” The day ends with an amazing fireworks display over our historic harbor. On July 14th we celebrate our French heritage with Bastille Day lectures, cooking demonstrations, kid-friendly events on Town Common and our Picnic en Blanc with hundreds, dressed in white, seated at a common table. Our Plein Air Festival, July 19-21, 2018, attracts artists from away and culminates in an Exhibition and Art Sale. And all summer long, the Castine Yacht Club hosts races on Penobscot Bay, in a variety of classes, including the Camden to Castine Classic Yacht Race on August 2nd. Throughout the summer, events and lectures are hosted by the Wilson Museum, Castine Historical Society and our Witherle Library where parents and children alike learn of our rich and storied history from events like Revolutionary and Civil War encampments/reenactments.
2018
July 19-21
Castine Plein Air Festival Reception & Art Sale Sat, July 21 - 4 to 6pm MMA Student Center
40 • BLUE HILL PENINSULA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
castinearts.org