Now that life is back to normal throughout much of Maine, residents and visitors can partake of a cornucopia of fairs, festivals and adventure this summer. Check out these August happenings:
Linda Greenlaw Charters Dinner Cruise, July 30
This cruise tour company offers a variety of themed outings each month aboard the SELECT. The two-hour July dinner cruise, which departs from the Wave Walker dock in Surry at noon, features a Chinese lunch with Chef Lusan Li. Sit back and take in the outstanding views while Chef Lu regales you with her spirited conversation and humor – she may even sing! For more information call Sandi at (207) 266-9831 or visit lindagreenlawcharters.com.
The Stars of MSMT concert series, August 4 and 5
The Maine State Music Theatre welcomes back some of its most dazzling stars for this special concert series at the Pickard Theater on the Bowdoin College campus in Brunswick. This event features crowd-favorite stars from seasons past and hit songs from musicals that span from the Golden Age to contemporary musical theatre. Visit www.msmt.org, or call (207) 725-8769 for more information.
Taste of Waterville, August 4
Enjoy a fun-filled day of adult entertainment, complete with a beer garden, music, demonstrations, and a wide selection of great food! Festivities begin at 11 a.m. and continue into the evening with varied ethnic cuisine and music at the Head of Falls waterfront park. Visit www.tasteofwaterville.com for more information.
Art in August–Open Air Show and Sale, August 5
The Rangeley Friends of the Arts annual show and sale present “fine art and fine craft.” This event is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Oquossoc Park, Oquossoc Village. Ribbons in fine art and fine craft categories will be awarded early so that visitors can enjoy viewing the winning pieces. Call 207-864-5000 for more information.
2021 Maine Boat & Home Show, August 13, 14 and 15
Celebrate life on the coast at Maine’s largest in-the-water boat show! Now in its 19th year, this is also the only show to feature dozens of Maine’s most talented artisans, furniture makers, architects and builders gathered on the Rockland waterfront. For tickets and more information, visit maineboats.com.
Harbor Fest, August 13, 14 and 16
The Belfast Rotary Club plans to host Harbor Fest in Steamboat Landing Park. The event typically includes a boat competition, food and craft vendors, charity auction, 5-K Bug Run, pancake breakfast, cardboard boat race, and children’s activities. Some features may be altered this year to adhere to Maine CDC guidelines. Visit belfastrotary.org for more information.
Forest Heritage Days, August 14
This Greenville celebration from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. includes the Game of Logging Competition, Colby College Woodsman’s Team Demonstrations, a craft fair, and Forestry, Wildlife and Recreation exhibits with forestry equipment on display. Kids programs take place on the Greenville School campus, 130 Pritham Avenue. Visit forestheritagedays.org for more information.
Bath Art Hop, August 20
On the third Friday of each month, June through September, visitors can stroll the historic streets of downtown Bath from 4 to 7 p.m. to enjoy a free, self-guided tour of local artists, makers, and live performance artists. Local eateries, shops, and galleries offer extended evening hours, as well. Check out the event on Facebook, or call (603) 767-7411 for more information.
State of Maine Bicentennial Parade, August 21
Delayed last year due to COVID-19, this parade through Auburn-Lewiston celebrates Maine’s people, culture, landmarks, and history. The parade features floats, bands, and participants from across the Pine Tree State. Visit maine200parade.com for details.
Guided Trolley Tour of Presque Isle Air Museum
and former Presque Isle Army Airfield, August 21
Hear about the history of this military installation, visit an actual launch pad for one of the nation’s first ICBMs, the Northrop SM-62 SNARK (used 1958 through 1961), and much more. Reservations are required. Visit pihistory.org for details.
Third Annual York County Blues Fest, August 21
This event promises to deliver “fresh air and great music” at Friendship Park in Waterboro from 2 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Gates open at 1 p.m., with a pre-show Jam at 1:50 p.m. Performers include Paul Nelson Band (Paul is Johnny Winter’s Grammy-winning guitarist), and Detroit Queen of the Blues Thornetta Davis. Also scheduled are local artists Bonnie Edwards & The Practical Cats, Memphis Lightning, Mike James Blue Lions, Deej SG, and keyboardist Andy Schoenfeld. Visit yorkcountybluesfest.com for details.
2021 Maine Outdoor Film Festival, August 22
This annual outlet for Maine’s creative filmmakers typically draws thousands of attendees to the Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, but this year organizers plan to sell only 50 tickets, so preregistration is required. For tickets and a list of the films, visit schoodicinstitute.org.
2021 Crown of Maine Balloon Festival, August 26, 27 and 29
This weekend festival in Presque Isle has hot air balloons to watch and ride in. Also part of the fun are a pilot meet and greet, craft and vendor fair, array of food vendors, farmer’s market, ATV ride-in, live music, and more. Visit combf.org for more information.
