10 events to visit in Maine this spring

Achingly pretty coastlines, expansive national parks and numerous historic landmarks help make Maine a mecca for travellers – and those coming in spring can look forward to a host of great events, too.

America’s northeastern-most state is an alluring place to visit at all times of year, with its stark natural landscapes changing character with the seasons. If you’re coming to Maine during springtime, there’s also plenty of cultural attractions to enjoy in addition to the majestic scenery. We’ve picked out 10 of the best events set to take place over the coming weeks and months across the state.

Windjammer Days

Windjammer Days is a weeklong celebration that ushers in the summer season and celebrates Boothbay Harbor, Maine’s rich maritime history. For more than 60 years, the people of the Boothbay Region have come together during Windjammer Days to reconnect after the long winter, support local businesses and welcome visitors. From the Grand Gathering of the Windjammer Fleet and the majestic Parade of Sails to pirate duels and fireworks, the festival has something for everyone. Popular events include Harbor Aglow, a lighted boat parade in the harbor and a Vintage Boat Parade and Pier Party. Most events are free to the public. For more information, visit www.boothbayharborwindjammerdays.org.

Boothbay Harbor / 23-29 June

Whoopie Pie Festival

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the Maine Whoopie Pie Festival returns to Dover-Foxcroft, rain or shine this June. This landmark event, famous for hundreds of whoopie pie flavours, artists, crafters, and activities, is a must-visit for families and foodies alike. To enhance your festival experience, Fast Passes and VIP parking permits are available, ensuring you get the most out of this beloved celebration. All details about the festival, including how to secure your passes, can be found at www.MaineWhoopiePieFestival.com. Importantly, the festival proudly serves as a fundraiser for the non-profit Center Theatre for the Performing Arts.

Dover-Foxcroft / 22 June

Maine Science Festival

Held over five full days at venues across downtown Bangor in the Highlands region of Maine, the Maine Science Festival wad created with the purpose of educating and inspiring the next generation of innovators in the fields of science technology, innovation, and engineering. Drawing 50,000-plus visitors every year, the festival features more than 70 free events and activities for all ages, including  forums, discussions, talks, exhibits, films, hands-on experiences, and demonstrations.

Venues across Bangor / 20-24 March 

La Kermesse Festival

Founded in 1985 by a group of local French-American artists who wanted to celebrate their heritage through art, music and culture, La Kermesse has grown to become one of Maine’s most eagerly awaited annual festivals. Taking place throughout downtown Bidderford in York County, the event features live musical performances from both local and international acts, together with interactive art installations, street food, and a whole host of cultural activities including language classes and traditional dance performances.

St. Louis Field, Biddeford / 20-23 June 

All Roads Music Festival

Both established and emerging Maine musicians flock to this two-day festival in the city of Belfast each year, which places a strong emphasis on supporting the arts and locally grown creative talent. Performances span a wide variety of genres, including indie rock, folk, pop, bluegrass, indie-folk, alternative country, punk and hip-hop. As well as the top-class live music, the festival also features discussion panels, curated showcases, and the Maine Songwriters Circle.

Venues across Belfast / 17-18 May

Blistered Fingers Family Bluegrass Festival

A staple of Maine’s annual music scene, Blistered Fingers Family Bluegrass Festival is a family-friendly four-day event that draws musicians from across the country who put on toe-tapping live performances, jam sessions, and workshops, all designed to immerse visitors in the rich traditions of bluegrass. Renowned for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, there are also nightly jamming sessions, square dancing, storytelling sessions, arts and crafts, dozens of food trucks, and campfires to help create that authentic festival experience.

Litchfield Fairgrounds / 20-23 June

Maine Maple Sunday Weekend

Each March, the maples of Maine begin sending sweet sap surging up to feed the buds – but not before maple syrup producers can tap the trees to kick-start the process of making mouth-watering syrup and candies. Maine Maple Sunday sees maple producers from across the state open their sugarhouses to the public to sample freshly-made maple syrup and other sweet treats. Each of the nearly 100 participating producers offer varied events and activities including tours of the sap line, sap boiling demos, tastings of all things maple, hayrides and face painting.

Aroostook County / 23-24 March 

The Maine Blues Festival

Live blues music takes centre stage at this acclaimed festival that has been attracting music lovers from far and wide to Lisbon Falls in  the town of Naples since the inaugural edition back in 2006. A packed programme of stage performances by artists from all around New England is augmented by food vendors, local craft beer tents, family-friendly games, and a dedicated a kids’ zone complete with face painting and bouncy castles, allowing adults to focus on the top tunes being belted out while their little ones run wild.

Lisbon Falls / 17 June

Bar Harbor Art in the Park

The picturesque coastal town of Bal Harbor has a vibrant arts scene and at no time is this more evident than during its popular Art in the Park event. Visitors can peruse artist booths, meet and engage with attending artists and artisans, and find unique art pieces to take home as mementos or gifts. There are also art demonstrations, interactive art-themed activities, and live music to add to the roster of entertainment.

Village Green, Bar Harbor / 15-16 June 

The Music of John Williams

A beautifully-restored performance venue, the Merrill Auditorium is one of the gems of Portland’s downtown Arts District. For one night only this April, the prestigious arena will play host to a captivating celebration of one of the most iconic film composers of all time – the great John Williams. The composer of some of the most popular, recognisable and critically acclaimed film scores in cinema history, the show will feature some of Williams’ most renowned works live, including selections from Jurassic Park, Star Wars, and E.T.

Merrill Auditorium, Portland / 7 April

By Paul Joseph