Maine Traditions That Bring the Past Into the Present

Maine isn’t just a destination, it’s a place where history, culture, and nature are woven into daily life. From fishermen hauling lobster pots to farmers at local markets, these traditions carry on in a way that both locals and visitors can share. Here, time-honored customs like crafting wooden boats, tapping maple trees, and celebrating small-town fairs remind every visitor that Maine’s heart beats to rhythms passed down for generations. The scent of pine, the clang of harbor bells, and the taste of fresh-caught seafood all tell a story, a story of resilience, craftsmanship, and a people deeply connected to the land and sea. Maine invites travelers not only to observe its traditions but to experience them firsthand, and to take part in a lifestyle that honors its past while embracing the present.

Seasonal Celebrations You Can’t Miss

Across Maine, the changing seasons bring unique traditions that connect communities and visitors alike. From the sweet scent of maple syrup in March to the excitement of ice-out contests signaling spring’s arrival, each event reflects the deep connection Mainers have to nature’s rhythm and their local culture. These celebrations aren’t just festivals, they’re living markers of the year, reminders of how closely life here follows the turning of the seasons. Whether it’s tapping maple trees, racing toboggans, or watching fields burst into bloom, each season in Maine carries its own magic and sense of renewal.

Maine Maple Sunday

Every March, sugarhouses welcome visitors with fresh maple syrup tastings, tours, and demonstrations. It’s one of Maine’s sweetest traditions. It’s a day when families and friends come together to celebrate local craftsmanship and the first signs of spring.

Ice-Out Contests

In lake towns across Maine, neighbors bet on when winter ice will finally break apart. It’s quirky, fun, and marks spring’s return. It’s become a community tradition that blends humor, suspense, and anticipation for warmer days ahead.

U.S. National Toboggan Championships (Camden)

Teams race down icy wooden chutes in handmade sleds each February, bringing energy and community spirit to the coast. The event has become a winter highlight, proving that Mainers know how to make even the coldest months full of fun and good cheer.

Iconic Maine Festivals

Festivals in Maine are a colorful reflection of its heritage that honor the sea, the soil, and the communities that thrive around them. Whether celebrating the lobster industry, potatoes, or local crafts, these festivals showcase the pride and creativity of Maine’s people. They are as much about connection as celebration and a time when generations gather to share stories, traditions, and the fruits of their labor. With the scent of salt air and the sound of local bands filling the streets, visitors can feel the heartbeat of small-town Maine, where every festival is a happy reminder of how deeply community matters.

• Maine Lobster Festival (Rockland): Five days of lobster feasts, parades, crate races, and live entertainment. A coastal tradition that brings together locals and travelers in celebration of Maine’s maritime roots.
• Maine Potato Blossom Festival (Fort Fairfield): Celebrating Maine’s potato heritage with tours, sports, and even mashed potato wrestling — a fun, family-friendly festival that honors the region’s agricultural pride.
• SardineFest (Penobscot Marine Museum): Honoring Maine’s sardine canning history with food, storytelling, and memories of a once-thriving industry that shaped coastal life.
• Freeport Fall Festival: A showcase of New England makers, crafts, and seasonal treats that fill the air with the colors and scents of autumn.
• Harvest Festivals: From Pettengill Hay Day to Shaker Village’s harvest event, autumn is a time of gathering, gratitude, and celebrating Maine’s bounty.

The Flavors of Maine

Maine’s culinary traditions are as enduring as its lighthouses. Every meal tells a story of the land and sea. From the daily catch brought in by local fishermen to recipes that have been handed down through generations. For those savoring a lobster roll by the shore or sampling homemade blueberry pie at a country fair, Maine’s food connects people to the place in the most delicious way possible. The cuisine reflects a balance between simplicity and soul, with dishes made with care, using ingredients that come straight from nature. Every bite captures the honesty and hard work of the people who make Maine what it is – warm, welcoming, and wonderfully genuine.

• Lobster Rolls & Bakes: Nothing says Maine like fresh lobster, steamed or buttered on a bun. It’s a simple yet iconic taste of coastal living.
• Blueberries & Whoopie Pies: From blueberry festivals to bakery counters, these are Maine’s sweetest signatures. Comfort food that defines the region’s charm.
• Beanhole Suppers: Beans cooked slowly in underground pits remain a beloved community ritual, bringing neighbors together for hearty meals and warm conversation.
• Cretons, Sardines & Moxie: Unique local flavors that connect visitors to Maine’s everyday culture and quirky culinary heritage.

Craft, Foraging & Outdoor Heritage

Maine’s wild landscapes are not just breathtaking, they’re deeply tied to local life. Generations have lived by the rhythm of the land, using its resources wisely and with respect. From foraging fiddleheads in spring to crafting birch bark baskets, these timeless practices remind visitors that sustainability and tradition go hand in hand in the Pine Tree State. Every trail, forest, and coastline carries stories of craftsmanship and survival, where creativity meets the natural world. Whether it’s a hand-carved decoy, a woven basket, or freshly gathered wild berries, these skills reveal a culture that honors self-sufficiency, artistry, and a deep, enduring connection to nature.

• Traditional Crafts: Blacksmithing, woodworking, and birch bark basketry are still practiced and celebrated at fairs and museums across the state, preserving old-world artistry.
• Foraging: From fiddleheads in spring to wild mushrooms and blueberries, foraging ties people to the land and highlights Maine’s natural abundance.
  

The Lobster Trap Christmas Tree Tradition

Few holiday sights capture Maine’s spirit like the Lobster Trap Christmas Tree. This is a creative coastal twist on a classic symbol. Built from stacked wooden traps and decorated with buoys, lights, and garlands, these community-made trees reflect both Maine’s fishing heritage and its sense of togetherness during the holiday season. What began as a humble idea in a small seaside town has grown into one of the state’s most recognizable winter traditions. It’s a celebration of hard work and creativity, transforming tools of the trade into emblems of joy and pride. The glow of the buoys and lights against the harbor backdrop perfectly reflects Maine’s gift for turning simple materials into moments of magic.

• Rockland: A towering 40-foot tree adorned with thousands of lights and community-painted buoys — a dazzling seaside spectacle.
• Cape Porpoise: A village tradition celebrating the fishing heritage each December, glowing warmly against the winter night.
• Stonington: A newer but fast-growing favorite, featuring hundreds of traps and colorful buoys that light up the harbor.

These glowing trees bring towns together and showcase Maine’s maritime pride, turning cold winter nights into bright celebrations of community and creativity.

Living History & Community Traditions

Across Maine, the past lives on in the present, and not just in museums or old photographs, but in daily life. From the steady beams of historic lighthouses to lively contra dances and potlucks, these traditions remind visitors that Maine’s greatest strength lies in its people and their connection to place. Through song, craft, or storytelling, Mainers continue to preserve and share their heritage with genuine pride. The state’s living history can be seen in every corner, from restored logging villages and historic shipyards to local festivals where age-old customs are revived with energy and love. These experiences don’t just tell Maine’s story; they let you live it, surrounded by people who embody the same sense of independence and warmth that has defined this place for centuries.

• Lighthouses: Historic beacons still dot Maine’s coastline, some open for tours, others best seen from the water. They stand as symbols of endurance and guidance.
• Contra Dances & Potlucks: Folk dancing and communal meals remain social staples in small towns, bringing people together in joy and fellowship.
• Living History Days: Museums like the Maine Forest and Logging Museum keep old crafts alive with reenactments and demonstrations that make history come alive.

Why Travelers Love These Traditions

When you stay with RentalsMaine, you’re not just renting a vacation home — you’re becoming part of a living story. Each tradition, whether centuries old or newly formed, offers a glimpse into Maine’s identity and its warm, welcoming spirit. The joy of a Maine trip lies not only in its scenery but in the chance to experience real community — the kind that greets you with a smile, a plate of fresh food, and a story to share. Visitors often leave with more than souvenirs; they carry the rhythm of Maine life with them — the sound of waves, the glow of a lighthouse, and the enduring kindness of its people.

• Time your trip around a seasonal festival or harvest celebration.
• Visit a sugarhouse during Maple Sunday or enjoy a lobster bake by the shore.
• Explore farmers’ markets for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local stories.
• Join community events — from lobster trap tree lightings to contra dances — for an authentic taste of Maine.

From coastal fishermen to inland farmers, from blueberry pies to lobster trap trees, Maine’s traditions are not just preserved — they’re lived. Visitors who experience them leave with more than memories; they leave with a sense of belonging and the unmistakable warmth of Maine hospitality.

Plan your next stay with Maine Rentals & Real Estate and step into a vacation where tradition and community still thrive.

The Maine Beer Trail and Maine Wine Trail are two fantastic ways to discover these hidden gems. With a variety of breweries and wineries, these trails guide you to some of the best in the state, each offering a distinct experience and a chance to savor locally crafted beers and wines. From the variations in flavors of craft beers to the subtle, nuanced notes of fruit wines, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Breweries on the Maine Beer Trail

Fogtown Brewing Company

Located at 25 Pine St, Ellsworth, Fogtown Brewing Company has a variety of small-batch craft beers brewed on-site. This dog-friendly brewery features a cozy taproom and often hosts live music and events, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some local brews. In addition to exceptional beers, Fogtown Brewing Company also serves delicious oven-fired pizza and burgers.

The brewery is open from 4 PM to 9 PM daily and is closed on Mondays. Whether you’re enjoying a pint in the taproom, relaxing on the outdoor patio, or attending one of their lively events, Fogtown Brewing Company is sure to be a fun experience.

Strong Brewing Company

Strong Brewing Company, located at 7 Rope Ferry Rd, Sedgwick, is a family-owned brewery renowned for its small-batch, handcrafted beers. The microbrewery is a labor of love for its owners, who are passionate about creating high-quality beverages brewed with local flavors. Ever since opening in 2013, The Strong family has been focused on using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring that each beer has a distinct Downeast Maine flavor. We highly recommend stopping by as you explore the Maine Beer Trail.

The brewery has a diverse range of styles to suit all tastes, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts and refreshing ales. Their cozy taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can relax and enjoy their drinks, often accompanied by live music or community events that make the experience even more special. Best of all, you can bring your pup!

The Strong Public House and Patio is open from Friday to Monday between noon and 8 PM. The brewery is closed from Monday to Thursday, giving the family time to focus on crafting their exceptional beers.

Airline Brewing Company

Airline Brewing Company offers a delightful selection of traditional British-style ales. Stepping into their pub-like atmosphere feels like being transported to a cozy English pub, complete with rustic wooden decor, friendly staff, and a warm, inviting ambiance. The brewery prides itself on its authentic brewing methods, creating beers that are true to the traditional British style. From rich, malty bitters and refreshing British ales to their Peanut Butter Stout, the Airline Brewing Company gives you a taste of England in the heart of Ellsworth. Don’t forget to grab some wholesome pub food while you’re at it!

The brewery is open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily, located at 22 Mill St, Ellsworth. This flexibility allows you to drop in for a casual afternoon drink or to enjoy a lively evening out. Their commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every sip, making it a favorite among locals and visitors across the board.

Lubec Brewing Company

Lubec Brewing Company, located at 41 Water St, Lubec, is a small brewery with a big heart. This charming establishment prides itself on its deep connection to the local community and its commitment to brewing high-quality beers. If you stop by to grab a pint here, it’s almost like stepping back in time.

With a range of beers brewed with care and passion, Lubec Brewing Company will please any palate—from hop-forward IPAs to smooth stouts and refreshing ales. The brewery’s indoor taproom and outdoor beer garden each provide inviting spaces where visitors can enjoy a pint while taking in the picturesque views of Lubec’s waterfront.

Open from Wednesday to Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM, Lubec Brewing Company is a perfect destination for a weekend afternoon outing. The brewery’s friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit while you’re in town.

Atlantic Brewing Company

Found at 15 Knox Rd, Bar Harbor, Atlantic Brewing Company is a must-visit destination for beer lovers exploring Downeast Maine. Known for its wide variety of beers, this brewery has something to suit everyone, from crisp lagers and hoppy IPAs to rich porters and stouts. The brewery’s beautiful outdoor seating area provides a perfect setting for enjoying a cold brew on a sunny day, surrounded by the natural beauty of Bar Harbor.

What locals love most about Atlantic Brewing Company is that it often hosts events that bring the community together, such as Lord of the Rings Trivia, buffets, annual competitions, and much more. They also have an on-site BBQ restaurant serving delicious, smoky fare that pairs perfectly with beer.

Open daily from 11 AM to 7 PM, this gives you plenty of time to stop by for a meal and a drink, whether for a casual lunch or an early evening gathering. With its combination of great beer, tasty food, and a beautiful setting, Atlantic Brewing Company is a top spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience the best of downtown Bar Harbor’s craft beer scene. When you’re heading out, be sure to grab some of your favorite brews from their tasting room to go!

Horn Run Brewing

Horn Run Brewing in Eastport is a hidden gem in Downeast Maine’s craft beer scene. This small brewery focuses on producing high-quality, small-batch beers. Known for its creativity and innovation, the brewing company offers a variety of beers, including hoppy IPAs, stouts, and ales. The brewery’s commitment to using local ingredients whenever possible ensures that each beer has a distinct Downeast Maine character.

The brewery and pub kitchen at Horn Run Brewing is open daily with varying hours, primarily open for 8 hours mid-day. Their menu features delicious snacks like soft pretzels, Beer Cheese Nachos, and their Beef and Beer Cheese Sandwich. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or a casual drinker, Horn Run Brewing has some of the best beer and snack pairings in Eastport. Don’t miss this spot during your Maine Beer Trail adventures!

Naiad Country Brewery

Naiad Country Brewery, nestled in a rural area of East Machias, is a small brewery open from Friday to Sunday between 2 PM to 8 PM. This brewery is dedicated to brewing exceptional beers with a focus on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients. Naiad Country Brewery produces a range of brews, from Zeppa’s Pilz and Naiad Pale Ale to their seasonal specialties that you won’t want to miss.

The brewery’s inviting taproom, open from Wednesday to Sunday, offers a warm and relaxed setting for visitors to sample their diverse selection of beers. The scenic surroundings and friendly atmosphere of the picnic area also make Naiad Country Brewery an ideal spot to grab an afternoon pint. Whether you’re exploring the Downeast Maine Beer Trail or simply passing through East Machias, a visit to Naiad Country Brewery is a refreshing pit stop in Mother Nature.

Wineries on the Maine Wine Trail

Shalom Organic Orchard Farm & Winery

Located in Franklin, Shalom Organic Orchard Farm & Winery is renowned for its commitment to organic winemaking. As part of a larger farm that produces a variety of organic products, the winery emphasizes sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Visitors can enjoy more of a rustic, farm-like environment while tasting wines made from organic fruits grown right on the farm. This focus on organic farming not only enhances the quality of the wines but also supports the health of the local ecosystem.

The winery is open from Tuesday to Sunday from noon to 5 PM. The winery’s intimate approach allows guests to receive detailed attention and learn about the winemaking process from the knowledgeable staff. The tranquil setting, combined with the unique flavors of organic wines, makes Shalom Organic Orchard Farm & Winery a must-visit destination for those seeking a genuine and eco-conscious wine-tasting experience.

Bartlett Maine Estate Winery

Bartlett Maine Estate Winery in Gouldsboro is a must on the Maine Wine Trail, as it’s Maine’s oldest winery with a long history of specializing in fruit wines. The winery is set on a picturesque estate—perfect for wine tasting and strolls through the grounds. Your visit to Bartlett Maine Estate Winery is a chance to explore the flavors and traditions that have shaped Maine’s wine culture for so many years.

Open from Wednesday to Saturday from 11 AM to 4 PM, Bartlett Maine Estate Winery is a must-visit destination for those interested in experiencing the unique history and delightful tastes of Maine’s wine heritage from Bob and Kathe Bartlett. The knowledgeable team and inviting atmosphere make it an enjoyable spot for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers. Thanks to the region’s ideal climate, their wine is made from blueberries with rich tannins, ensuring you’ll sample only some of the best fruit wine in the state at this historic winery.

And if wine isn’t your thing, Bartlett Maine Estate Winery also offers tastings of their small-batch distilled rum. Distilled using organic molasses, their rum blends vanilla, toffee, brown sugar, and oddly enough, the faint aroma of cigar smoke. Their renowned rum has even won the gold medal in the World Spirits Competition. Don’t believe us? You’ll have to try it for yourself!

Tips for Enjoying the Downeast Maine Brewery and Maine Wine Trail

Exploring the Maine Beer Trail or Maine Wine Trail can be an unforgettable experience, especially with a bit of preparation. Here are some tips to ensure you make the most of your visit:

1. Plan Ahead: Check the opening hours and schedules of the breweries and wineries you want to visit. Many have specific days and times they are open, and some require appointments. Make a list of your must-visit spots and map out your route to maximize your time.
2. Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart: With so many delicious beverages to sample, staying hydrated is a must. Bring water and consider having a snack between tastings to cleanse your palate and keep your energy up. Many locations also offer food, so plan to enjoy some local bites along the way.
3. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. Many breweries and wineries have outdoor seating areas, and the weather in Downeast Maine can be unpredictable. Being comfortable will enhance your overall experience.
4. Bring a Cooler: If you plan to purchase bottles or cans to take home, bring a cooler to keep your beverages at the right temperature, especially during warmer months.
5. Take Notes: With so many unique flavors to try, it’s easy to forget which ones you loved the most. Bring a notebook or use a notes app on your phone to take photos or jot down your favorites and any interesting details about the beers and wines you sample.
6. Engage with the Staff: The staff at these local establishments are often passionate about their craft and knowledgeable about their products. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and learn more about the brewing and winemaking process. It can add a richer context to your tastings.
7. Respect the Space: Many of these breweries and wineries are family-owned and operated, with a deep connection to their community. Respect the space and the people, and always follow any house rules or guidelines provided.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a memorable day (or weekend) exploring the delightful breweries and wineries of Downeast Maine.

Which Are You Adding to Your List of Things to Do Downeast Maine?

As you wrap up your tour of Downeast Maine’s many wineries and breweries, you’re sure to have experienced a delightful blend of flavors and local charm. Thanks to the Maine Beer Trail and Wine Trail, there’s no shortage of things to do in Downeast Maine. Whether you’ve sampled your favorite pints of Fogtown Brewing Company or savored the artisanal wines at Shalom Organic Orchard Farm & Winery, each sip tells a story of craftsmanship and community.

So, until your next adventure in Downeast Maine, keep exploring, savoring, and discovering the hidden gems that await around every corner. Cheers to good times and great memories!

Maybe it’s all those things, in addition to a rich maritime history, Arcadia National Park, recreational opportunities, and great seafood. So, it’s no surprise that the area’s riches are often the center of its festivals and events, which also attract repeat visitors.

If you happen to be one of them, you know there’s always something new for everyone to enjoy in this distinct area, whether it’s during cold and snowy winter, warm and sunny summer, or somewhere in between. Take a look – we’ve compiled a list of what’s up in Downeast Maine for the rest of this year:

Downeast Maine Calendar of Events for Summer 2024

JULY

4th of July Celebration

Date: July 4, 7 AM
Location: Castine

Various locations (please see the event website for details)

Enjoy a jam-packed day, starting with the annual 1K/5K Walk/Run Race to benefit the Round School. Come cheer the runners and walkers, then head to the parade. Don’t forget to wear a costume – you might win a prize! Then take your pick from multiple events, including sack races, tug-o-war, a pie-eating contest, and more. You might be hungry by this point, so head to the Pentagoet BBQ and dig into Maine BBQ classics. Limited seats are available, so call 207-326-8616 to reserve your spot. Later, tap your feet to a Castine Town Band performance before you head to the harbor at dusk to take in the amazing fireworks display.

2024 Stonington 6

Date: July 4, 7-10 AM
Location: Stonington

Island Community Center, 10 Memorial Lane

Come and cheer the participants raising funds for the Island Community Center. They’ll run the Stonington 6 (6.2 miles or 10k) or the Fun Run (1 mile), or walk in the Walker Class category. Prizes will be awarded to the youngest and oldest finishers, the top female and male finishers in each age division, and the first Stonington or Deer Isle resident to finish.

Acadia Wildlife Center Open House

Date: July 6, 10 AM – 2 PM
Location: Bar Harbor

Town Hill Community Hall, 1328 Maine 102

Join the Acadia Wildlife Center at its annual open house as it celebrates 30 years of rehabilitating injured native wildlife! Place your bid in a silent auction, pick up baked goods or food from a participating local restaurant, and let the kids loose on the playground. Try your luck in a raffle to win a chance to attend the release of a rehabilitated animal back in the wild! The center will shuttle people back and forth from Town Hill Community Hall to its Nature Center all day; it’s a five-minute drive. At the Nature Center, observe wildlife and hear animal ambassadors talk about wildlife rehabilitation and environmental conservation.

Batik Painting: Ancient Art, New Twist

Date: July 10, 10 AM – 2 PM
Location: Bar Harbor

ArtWaves, 1345-A State Highway 102

Try your hand at batik painting, with ink, wax, and watercolor on rice paper. Learn ancient techniques, experiment with layering color, and take home two amazing paintings. All materials and step-by-step instructions will be provided. Teens and adults of all skill levels can participate, though professional artists are also welcome!

Dawnland Festival of Arts and Ideas

Date: July 12, 6:30 AM – 9 PM & July 13 to 14, 10 AM – 5 PM
Location: Bar Harbor

College of the Atlantic, 105 Eden St.

Enjoy performances, a Native arts market, and conversations by Wabanaki and other Indigenous leaders on contemporary issues, including climate, democracy, and food systems. Over 50 Native American artists from across the U.S. and Canada will showcase fashion, pottery, painting, baskets, beadwork, and textiles. See the breadth and excellence of Indigenous art. The festival is free to attend!

2024 Annual Harbor House Flamingo Festival 

Date: July 13, 7:30 AM – 4 PM, July 14: 9 AM – 7 PM, July 15, 7:30 PM (steel drum band concert)
Location: Southwest Harbor

Harbor House, 329 Main St.

For a touch of lighthearted whimsy and hot-pink family fun, head to this festival dedicated to the tall, pink bird. Activities include games, a parade, a carnival, and a craft fair. Admire the lawns, store windows, and buildings that proudly display the plastic version of the pink creatures.

8th Annual Bastille Day Celebration

Date: July 14, 1 – 10 PM
Location: Castine

Various locations (please see the event website for details)

Castine, which originated as a French outpost in 1635, will celebrate the 235th anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison and military fortress in Paris. The event marked the beginning of the French Revolution. Castine’s celebration includes a walking tour, historical craft-making, French vanilla ice cream bars, and its signature event, the Picnic en Blanc. Some 400 festival goers dressed in white will be seated at long, white tables under the elms on Court Street. Bring your own French picnic, or pre-order a basket from the Pentagoet Inn, while supplies last. Reserve your spot at the Picnic en Blanc by calling Town Hall at 207-326-4502.

Landscape Interpretation Guided Hike With Tom Wessels

Date: July 20, 9 – 11 AM
Location: Blue Hill

The trailhead on Parker Point Road

Join a landscape interpretation walk on the Parker Point to South Street Trail with your guide, Tom Wessels. Tom is a professor emeritus at Antioch University, where he founded the master’s degree program in conservation biology. Hear all about the forest’s history, the interrelationships in our forest ecosystems, and the unique adaptations of our regional trees. Please wear appropriate footwear, and bring water. Please register your attendance on our website’s events calendar.

The Maine Silent Film Festival

Date: July 24 to 25, 7 PM
Location: Bucksport

The Alamo Theatre, 85 Main St.

The second Maine Silent Film Festival combines comedy and drama, with a focus on rare and unusual films seldom screened theatrically. Doug Protsik, musician, director of the Maine Fiddle Camp, and composer of Old Time Piano scores for silent movies, will provide live accompaniment. This year’s themes are films that were made in Maine, and a look at war films through time.

AUGUST

25th Annual Castine Classic Yacht Race

Date: August 1, 12 PM
Location: Castine

The start will be between the signal flag on the Race Committee boat and the bell “CH” off Dice’s Head

Witness an impressive fleet of classic yachts racing a 19.4-nautical-mile course from Castine to Camden. This year’s event celebrates Maine’s extraordinary boat builders. Several of their notable yachts will be on display on the Castine waterfront.

Blue Hill Maritime Heritage Festival

Date: August 3, 10 AM – 4 PM
Location: Blue Hill

Blue Hill Waterfront and Historic Village, 30 Water St.

Ahoy, there! Get ready for a fun summer day that celebrates the area’s coastal heritage and nautical history. This annual event features boats, boat-building demonstrations, sea shanties, seafood, art on the lawn, and more.

47th Annual Machias Wild Blueberry Festival

Date: August 16, 9 AM – 7 PM, August 17, 7 AM – 7 PM & August 18, 9 AM – 2 PM
Location: Machias

Center Street Congregational Church, 9 Center St.

All things blueberry, in addition to contests, a fish fry, farm tours, a blueberry dessert buffer, a children’s parade, an arts and crafts show, and other food and entertainment will celebrate Maine’s blueberry harvest. This festival is the largest blueberry event in the area, offering a real, old-fashioned good time.

The Blue Hill Fair

Date: August 29, 4 – 10 PM, August 30 to September 1, 8 AM – 10 PM & September 2, 8 AM – 8 PM
Location: Blue Hill

233 Ellsworth Rd.

The county fair that’s the origin of E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web is back again for another year! Bring the family and experience pig races, sheepdog trials, barrel relays on horses, oxen, and horse pulls, 4-H ribbon-award ceremonies, and traditional farm games. And remember to ride the midway!

36th Annual Salmon Festival

Dates: August 31 to September 1
Location: Eastport

Schedule to come Aug. 1, please check the festival website for updates

Pay homage to our local resources as you have “lox” of fun! Hear live music, and explore shops, craft booths, and interactive exhibits. There’s also a youth fishing derby, a chance auction, and more! Lunch on Saturday is crab rolls and chowder. Salmon is the star of a Sunday community BBQ. Dine under the big tent while gazing at the nearby bay. Sip on wine or a locally brewed beer. Dinner is followed by an informative boat ride to the salmon pens in Cobscook Bay.

SEPTEMBER

Pirate Festival

Date: September 6, 10 AM – 9 PM, September 7, 10 AM – 11 PM & September 8, 8 AM – 4 PM
Location: Eastport

Hours are approximate. Most events are scheduled along Water Street

Grab your pirate garb and gear and go have a swashbuckling good time! The free festival will roll out fun games, races, contests, entertainment, demonstrations, and food you can eat with your hands. You may even spot pirates invading the city by sea!

Maine Open Lighthouse Day

Date: Sept. 14, 9 AM – 3 PM
Location: Many Maine towns

Please check the event website for updates on participating lighthouses

Grab this rare opportunity to climb the spiral staircase inside some of Maine’s historic lighthouses and learn more about them. Some will be open both on-shore and offshore during this popular event.

Downeast Maine Calendar of Events for Fall 2024

OCTOBER

Art of Ellsworth-Maine Craft Weekend

Date: October 5 to 6
Location: Ellsworth

Please check the event website for updates

Events in Maine this weekend include downtown Ellsworth, where creative culture is alive and well! Come out to participate in workshops, listen to live music, take studio tours, and watch craft demonstrations.

NOVEMBER

Downeast Cider + Cheese Festival

Date: November 7 to 10
Location: Ellsworth

Downtown Ellsworth

Please check the event website for updates on events, locations, and times

Savor and celebrate two traditional foods – cider and cheese – and their Maine roots at this multi-day festival. Expect tastings, presentations, and more.

Acadia Photography Workshop

Date: November 16, 7 AM – 7 PM
Location: Bar Harbor

Acadia National Park, Park Loop Road

Join this sunrise-to-sunset workshop with an experienced instructor and professional nature and landscape photographer John K. Putnam. He’ll lead you as you alternate between traveling around Acadia taking photos, and classroom time, where you’ll discuss topics on successfully creating images. There will also be individual instruction based on your goals and questions.

Downeast Maine Calendar of Events for Winter 2024

DECEMBER 

O.W.L Outing Club: Winter Plant ID at Boot Head Preserve

Date: December 14, 12 – 3 PM
Location: Lubec

Boot Head Preserve Trailhead, Boot Cove Road

Join other women ages 16+ on outdoor adventures and learn more about our local natural ecology. This month, find out how to identify plants in the winter and use iNaturalist to report your nature observations. We’ll hike or snowshoe in this 2-mile trail network. It’s a moderate hike, and snowshoes are available. Participation is free!

Which Stitch: A Circle of Needles

Date: December 22, 1 to 4 PM
Location: Bar Harbor

ArtWaves, 1345-A State Highway 102

Bring your needlework project, and settle into conversation and community support. Special guests will demonstrate their needlework and introduce you to new techniques. If you’re new to needlework crafts and want to try one, then welcome: ArtWaves provides supplies, beginning instruction, sewing machines, and materials. It’s a drop-in group, so no registration is required.

Now that you have some Downeast Maine events marked on your own calendar, do you need a place to stay? Contact us at Maine Rentals & Real Estate. Our specialty is matching guests to our area with vacation rental properties in Downeast Maine!