With holiday stress in the rearview mirror and 2023 resolutions on the brain, now is a great time to consider picking up a new hobby. Interested in rock climbing or cross-country skiing? Maybe you’d rather dabble in the fiber arts and take a stab—quite literally—at knitting, crocheting, or quilting. Perhaps this is a sign to become a plant parent! While we settle into the season and await more snow (seriously, where is it?), here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Something to Do:

Take part in the historic winter tradition of ice cutting at Libby Camps on Sunday! Fun for the whole family, this annual experience marks the opening weekend of the winter season, during which a group of guides and volunteers cut nearly 500 blocks of ice (weighing 80-100 lbs. each) that will stock the camp’s ice house for all visitors throughout the spring, summer, and fall. The event is free, and lunch will be served from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday
Where: Libby Camps, Oxbow

Something to Eat:

Looking for the best gluten-free and vegan bagels in southern Maine? Try the newly launched Badger Bagels, currently available at Arabica Coffee on Free Street. Made from white and brown rice flour in an allergen-free commercial kitchen in North Yarmouth, these plain, everything, and cinnamon raisin bagels are the first product produced by Sligo Foods, which hopes to expand their line of items in the upcoming year.

When: Starting this week
Where: Arabica Coffee, Portland

Something to Drink:

Little Woodfords, named one of the best coffee shops in America by Food & Wine magazine, is shutting its doors for good on January 31. If you haven’t visited the warm, tiny, LGBTQ+-friendly spot owned by Portland city councilor Andrew Zarro and his partner TJ, the next few weeks are  your last chance. Don’t sleep on the astrology drinks like the Capricorn, a golden agave turmeric-ginger latte topped with organic cinnamon, or the house-made breakfast sandwiches paired with a fresh cup of joe brewed from Vermont’s Vivid Coffee.

When: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Where: 316 A Congress Street, Portland

Something to Watch:

Join Bates College in honoring the legacy of civil rights icon Martin Luther King, Jr. with an afternoon showing of the film All These Sons. The 88-minute documentary follows a Bates graduate and his friend as they create healing spaces for young men on Chicago’s West and South sides, which are infamous for their high murder rates. A group discussion will follow the film, and free tickets can be reserved online.

When: 2 p.m. Sunday
Where: Olin Arts Center, Lewiston

Something to Look Forward to:

Oasis Free Clinics, a non-profit medical practice providing care to uninsured adults in Midcoast Maine, is hosting three virtual cooking classes to raise money for their free medical, dental, and prescription services. Experience a night in that feels like a night on the town with chef Sam Hayward of Fore Street, pop-up innovator Ali Waks Adams, or Asian-inspired cookbook author Chris Toy as you whip up a winter shellfish and fish stew, romantic Valentine’s Day roasted rack of lamb, or lobster wontons, Maine salmon, and root vegetable stir fry. Bon appetit!

When: January 28, February 11, or March 18
Where: Virtual (tickets available online)

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The post The Maine Weekender, 1/13—1/15 appeared first on The Maine Mag.

Looking to take a break from the kitchen this weekend? Get into the holiday spirit by tucking into a seasonally inspired dish at one of your favorite Maine restaurants! From a sweet and flaky Danish pastry at Biddeford’s Jackrabbit Cafe to a steaming bowl of monkfish chowder at Magnus on Water, our curated list of festive limited-time snacks, sandwiches, desserts, and more will have your taste buds tingling. Here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Something to Eat:

Zeerox BBQ, a new-to-the-scene food cart whose owner hopes to be fully up and running by the spring, is teaming up with Goodfire Brewing Co. for a Christmas Eve BBQ pop-up at Goodfire’s Portland location. Stop by for a cold brew and fresh pulled pork, or grab a BBQ sandwich inspired by the Zeerox owner’s Kansas upbringing.

When: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday
Where: 219 Anderson Street #6, Portland

Somewhere to Go:

Happy fifth night of Hanukkah to those who celebrate! In honor of the Festival of Lights, the Maine Jewish Museum is showcasing Maxwell Bauman’s colorful collection of Jewish-themed Lego art, with designs that depict Hebrew letters, the 10 Commandments, tzedakah boxes, and a burning bush. An accomplished author, Bauman is the current editor-in-chief of the Door is a Jar literary magazine, and two of his books are available for purchase at the museum. 

When: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. daily (except Saturdays) through January 5
Where: 267 Congress Street, Portland

Something to Drink:

Whether you’re getting a headstart on Dry January or just looking to lay low this weekend, Maine’s incredible mocktail scene has you covered. Raise your spirits at Lazzari, a cozy pizza joint and bar in Portland, with non-alcoholic options like the Coconut Espresso Martini, Honey Ginger Fizz, or sweet and tart Peach Mock-jito, made with peach puree, muddled lime, and mint topped with soda water. Plus, they’re open on Christmas!

When: 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Monday and Tuesday, 12 p.m. to 1 a.m. Wednesday-Sunday; 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Christmas Day
Where: 618 Congress Street, Portland

Something to Watch:

Give your loved ones (or yourself!) the gift of music this holiday season with tickets to the Portland Symphony Orchestra’s Magic of Christmas Digital Concert. With several pay-what-you-can options available, the pre-recorded concert—now celebrating its 43rd year—features both new and old holiday classics led by music director Eckart Preu. Who needs Netflix’s “Fireplace for Your Home” video when you can listen to skilled Maine musicians while lounging in your PJs?

When: Available on demand through January 1
Where: Your computer, phone, TV, or tablet via PortlandSymphonyTV.com

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The post The Maine Weekender, 12/23—12/25 appeared first on The Maine Mag.

Still on the hunt for the perfect holiday gift? Be sure to explore our Wishbook + Holiday Gift Guide, a curated list of presents for anyone on your list. From quintessential cozy blankets to holiday hosting tools, cannabis-infused goodies, and more, you’ll find exactly what you need to make this holiday season one of a kind. Here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Something to Do:

Channel your inner summer camp kid and create your own paw print tie-dye shirt at Olive Pit Brewing! The registration fee covers all materials for the event, where you’ll receive step-by-step instructions to design your own tie-dyed masterpiece. While you’re visiting, be sure to try Olive Pit’s Media Luna Lime Ale, made with salt water, agave, and lime, or the Erdbeern Haze, a hazy pale ale juiced up with pureed strawberries.

When: 1 p.m. Saturday
Where: 16 Main Street, Lisbon Falls

Somewhere to Go:

Opening its doors this Friday is Bar Futo, a Japanese-inspired restaurant rooted in binchotan-fired cooking from the team behind beloved Portland hotspots Mr. Tuna and Crispy Gai. With a nuanced menu guided by seasonal ingredients, a bar program with a robust sake list, and varieties of kakigori (Japanese shaved ice) for a sweet endnote, this highly anticipated restaurant is bound to knock it out of the park. 

When: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday, Thursday, and Sunday
Where: 425 Fore Street, Portland

Something to Eat:

Visit Frannie’s Mini Donuts for a festive donut decorating session this weekend and enjoy all the fun of making treats for the holidays without having to clean up your mess! For just $7.75, you’ll receive four chocolate or buttermilk glazed donuts that you can decorate with holiday-themed frosting, sprinkles, and decorations, plus a cup of coffee or hot cocoa to wash it all down. Don’t forget to register online to reserve your spot.

When: 5 p.m. Friday; 1 p.m., 3 p.m., or 5 p.m. Saturday
Where: 913 Main Street, Sanford

Something to Watch:

Tune in to PBS on Friday evening for the season premiere of Craft in America, a Peabody Award-winning documentary series that explores the beauty, significance, and relevance of handmade objects and the artists who make them. In this season’s inaugural episode, called “Inspiration,” world-renowned Portland ceramicist Ayumi Horie explains how handmade objects hold power and how contemporary craft can act as a force for change.

When: 9 p.m. Friday
Where: Your local PBS channel

The post The Maine Weekender, 12/15—12/17 appeared first on The Maine Mag.

How are you coping with this dreary December weather? Here in southern Maine, our fingers are crossed for a healthy dumping of snow—we can all agree that it’s time to send this damp, drizzly gloom packing. Luckily, there are plenty of holiday activities on the schedule to brighten your spirits before the end of the year. Here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Something to Do:

Enjoy a curated selection of locally made goods and support your favorite Maine makers at Friday’s Holiday Art Walk at the Dana Warp Mill, organized by Kristen Camp of Campfire Pottery. Whether you’re looking for a new piece of jewelry (try Nell Ballard Designs), a festive holiday candle (Near and Native has endless options), or some brand new ceramic pieces to gift this season (Campfire Pottery will have seconds and samples on sale), you’re sure to find something to take home from one of the ten shops opening their doors. 

When: 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday
Where: 90 Bridge Street, Westbrook

Something to Drink:

Looking for an après-ski experience despite the lack of snow? Visit the newly launched Cabin #211, a toasty holiday pop-up on the back patio of The Danforth in Portland’s West End. Complete with pine trees, festive lighting, specialty cocktails, and light bites (there’s also a shot-ski!), this one-of-a-kind winter wonderland will transport you straight to a cozy ski lodge at the base of your favorite mountain—no goggles or boots required. 

When: 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily
Where: 211 Danforth Street, Portland

Something to See:

After two years of pandemic cancellation, the annual Bar Harbor Gingerbread Contest is back! Hosted by the Bar Harbor Historical Society at La Rochelle Mansion and Museum, this year’s contest is sure to be an extra sweet treat. Stop by to tour the museum, admire the holiday decorations, and vote for your favorite gingerbread house. One lucky winner will receive a $500 grand prize, and two others will win $250 in the community favorite and children’s categories. 

When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday
Where: 127 West Street, Bar Harbor

Somewhere to Go:

Join Fogtown Brewing Company, Little Red Flower Truck, Atlantic Art Glass, Artsworth, and Heart of Ellsworth for an outdoor marketplace in the Fogtown beer garden, featuring more than 23 local artists showcasing their handmade products and crafts. Beer, hot beverages, and Precipice Coffee will be available to quench your thirst, and Atlantic Art Glass is planning a glass-blowing demonstration you won’t want to miss.

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday
Where: 25 Pine Street, Ellsworth

Something to Look Forward to:

Did you dip your toes into the sourdough bread baking fandom during quarantine? If your beloved starter has slowly died since then—or if you’re new to the bread baking world—it’s time to stop loafing around, because South Portland favorite Scratch Baking Co. just announced a series of baking workshops beginning in January. Details have yet to be released, but expect a variety of classes including Bagels 101, Beginner Sourdough, and Advanced Sourdough.

When: Launching in January
Where: To be announced

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The post The Maine Weekender, 12/9—12/11 appeared first on The Maine Mag.

Can you believe just one week ago everyone was scrambling around the kitchen making sure every bit of the Thanksgiving feast was prepped and ready to serve? Whether the holiday was a blast or a bust, we hope you had ample time to relax. Now that we’ve all collectively suffered through a full week of leftover turkey, cranberry, and stuffing sandwiches, we’re looking forward to the next round of seasonal flavors: hello, peppermint mocha and spiced eggnog! Here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Something to Do:

Grab a friend and get your blood pumping at Barre & Brew, Pure Barre Portland’s free pop-up class at Urban Farm Fermentory. Following the 45-minute barre-style class, you’ll enjoy complimentary pours of Urban Farm’s jun (a non-alcoholic sparkling probiotic green tea with Maine wildflower honey) or uniquely flavored kombucha (clocking in at 1.5% ABV) as you browse an exclusive Winter Market. Bring a yoga mat, a water bottle for mid-class hydration, and be sure to wear layers as the class will take place in UFF’s main tasting room. Though the class is free, you’ll want to reserve a spot online before it fills up!

When: 10 a.m. Sunday
Where: Urban Farm Fermentory, Portland

Somewhere to Go:

Still looking for a holiday gift for the special someone on your list? Visit the Wiscasset Holiday Marketfest this weekend for a selection of local arts and antiques, contemporary jewelry, specialty foods, and more. Enjoy personalized recommendations from shop owners, free horse-drawn wagon rides, caroling, live music, and fireworks. Rumor has it Santa will be making an appearance—assuming you haven’t been too naughty this year.

When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Where: Route 1, Wiscasset

Something to Eat:

What’s better than ooey gooey cheese on a chilly winter’s night? Head over to Tops’l Farm in Waldoboro on Saturday for a farm-to-table raclette meal celebrating the vibrant winter culture of midcoast Maine. Arrive for oysters and cocktails (outside, so dress warmly) before entering the barn for a traditional raclette meal that includes cheese and charcuterie, house condiments and ferments, roasted vegetables, and a sweet treat to finish out the evening. Tickets are $85 (beverages not included) and can be purchased online.

When: Seatings at 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. Saturday, December 3 and Saturday, December 10 (plus additional dates in January and February)
Where: Tops’l Farm, Waldoboro

Something to Look Forward to:

Revel in the holiday season at the Lockwood Hotel, downtown Waterville’s first boutique hotel in decades. The festive “Nights with Nutcracker” package includes a two-night stay in a king suite (December 8-10), two tickets to a performance of The Nutcracker at the Waterville Opera House, a complimentary holiday cocktail to enjoy by the Lockwood’s outdoor firepits, and holiday cookies baked fresh in-house. Call 207-660-0210 today to book your room!

When: December 8-10
Where: Lockwood Hotel, Waterville

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The post The Maine Weekender, 12/2—12/4 appeared first on The Maine Mag.

We hope your turkey is fully thawed, brined, and ready to cook because Thanksgiving has finally arrived! Whether you’re hosting for the first time like the editor of Maine magazine (don’t worry—she’s got it under control), traveling near or far to be with friends and family, or just enjoying the day to yourself (we don’t blame you), be sure to revel in the time to relax and recharge. Don’t forget to support your local friends on Small Business Saturday at the variety of holiday markets popping up this weekend—it’s the official start of the holiday season, after all. Check out our reel with @itsjennybravo (dropping this Friday) to see our favorite local stores! Here’s our roundup for this holiday weekend in Maine:

Something to Eat

Our friends at Portland Food Map compiled a list of all the local restaurants offering dining and takeout this Thanksgiving for those of you still making plans for the holiday. Try a cranberry sauce jello shot at Dock Fore, autumn gnocchi at MK Kitchen in Gorham, or a traditional Thanksgiving plate with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and all the fixin’s at Three Dollar Deweys in the Old Port. Click here for the full list of restaurants!

When: Thursday
Where: Various locations across Maine

Something to Do

Dive right into your holiday shopping at the 15th Annual Holiday Sale at The Red Door Pottery Studio in Kittery. Browse a unique selection of clay works from Maine maker Elaine X. Fuller, plus a variety of pieces from featured artists Hillary Rousselle, Sheridan Cudworth, and Jade Ruscio. From hand thrown wedding bowls to teapots, mugs, and baking dishes, there’s plenty to choose from for whomever’s on your list.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday
Where: 44 Government Street, Kittery

Somewhere to Go

Start your season of giving at the Portland Festival of Trees, a merry fundraising event supporting the Portland Children’s Dyslexia Center’s goal of teaching local children with dyslexia how to read. Walk amongst more than 30 fully decorated Christmas trees and choose which strikes your fancy—for just $10 you can enter a raffle to take your favorite tree home with you! 

When: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
Where: 415 Congress St, Portland

Something to See

The Cape Neddick Light Station—more commonly known as Nubble Lighthouse—shines bright from its location at Sohier Park in York each winter. Though the lights turn on daily from 4 p.m. to midnight through the New Year, stop by on Saturday for the Annual Winter Lighting of the Nubble, which includes extra fun activities like caroling on the beach and a visit with Santa himself at this iconic coastal monument. 

When: 4 p.m. Saturday
Where: Sohier Park, York

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The post The Maine Weekender, 11/25—11/27 appeared first on The Maine Mag.

The first snow of the season has fallen in Maine, and if there’s one thing we’re excited for, it’s breaking out the winter candles. What better way to cozy up than with the fresh scent of pine trees or Maine maple wafting in the air? For something local, try Near and Native’s warm, woodsy fragrances, or pray for more snow with Sea Wicks “Hit the Slopes” ski-inspired soy candle. Here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Something to See

The Territory, a brand-new documentary from director Alex Pritz, producer Darren Aronofsky, and the team at National Geographic, makes its debut at Center Theatre this weekend. The film, which was partially shot by the Uru-eu-wau-wau people in the Brazilian Amazon, offers a glimpse into the high-stakes struggle between the Indigenous people and farmers who are illegally deforesting protected land. Get a sneak peek before the documentary begins streaming on Disney+ next month!

When: 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Where: 20 East Main Street, Dover-Foxcroft

Somewhere to Go

Make your way to Onggi in Portland on Saturday for a Meet and Greet with Eric Kim, New York Times food writer and the author of the brand-new cookbook Korean American: Food That Tastes Like Home. While the Onggi team serves snacks and drinks inspired by the author’s Korean heritage and Atlanta upbringing, Kim will be available to answer questions, say hello, and sign copies. Grab yours for exciting takes on traditional recipes like gochujang chocolate lava cakes, cheeseburger kimbap, and caramelized-kimchi baked potatoes.

When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday
Where: 131 Washington Avenue, Portland

Something to Drink

Celebrate Kennebunkport Hotel Week with an Earth at Hidden Pond Mixology Class! Learn how to prepare classic cocktails with infused liquors, farm fresh ingredients, and a variety of vinegary shrubs. Tickets are $75 per person and include four cocktail tastings. If that doesn’t strike your fancy, consider one of the other Kennebunkport Hotel Week activities, like a hands-on Gnocchi Making Class at The Burleigh or a Cheese & Wine Pairing Workshop at Earth at Hidden Pond.

When: 2 p.m. Friday
Where: 354 Goose Rocks Road, Kennebunkport

Something to Read

Trying to round out your 2022 reading list or get a headstart on your 2023 book stash? Look no further than the Auburn Public Library Used Bookstore’s Buck-a-Bag Clearance Book Sale on Saturday. It’s BYOB (bring your own bag) and the options are endless—choose from classic fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books that have been donated to the library (some ex-library books will be available, too). Fill your bag to the brim and pay just $1 for your haul!

When: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday
Where: Auburn Public Library, Auburn

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The post The Maine Weekender, 11/18—11/20 appeared first on The Maine Mag.

A chill in the air has descended upon Maine this week, which can only mean one thing: it’s officially chili season. Whether you prefer a mild white chicken chili, a spicy hot chili con carne, or perhaps a veggie chili with extra beans, there’s no denying that it’s time to break out your biggest stock pot and get cooking—or, if you’re not feeling chef-like, find your local chili cook-off and get tasting. Here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Something to Do

Support the troops this Veterans Day Weekend at SoMe Brewing Co.’s much anticipated Chili Cook-Off (what did we tell you?) for Maine Veterans. With a suggested donation of $10, you’ll get to taste 10 different chilis and then cast a vote for your favorite. 100% of the proceeds benefit Maine vets, and a portion of beer sales will be donated as well. The only question: Are you team Beans or No Beans?

When: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday
Where: 1 York Street #3, York

Something to Eat

Island favorite food truck and catering company The Greeks of Peaks just announced their expansion into the world of baking! Led by pastry chef Emily McCarthy, Alévri Baking Company by The Greeks of Peaks will offer wholesale and direct-to-consumer pies, cookies, bars, cakes, cupcakes, and savory baked goods. Visit their Instagram to see what’s available for Thanksgiving pre-order and be sure to secure your goods—the deadline to order is November 16.

When: Pre-order now through November 16; pickup on November 23
Where: Portland, Yarmouth, or Peaks Island

Something to Drink

Looking to bring a little whimsy into your life? Belleflower Brewing seasonal favorite Faerie Offering, a light-bodied brew featuring cranberry, tangerine, and pomegranate, is now available in 4-packs and on draft at the Cove Street taproom. This hazy pink pour is reminiscent of cranberry-orange relish on the Thanksgiving table and pairs perfectly with your holiday favorites!

When: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday
Where: 66 Cove Street, Portland

Somewhere to Go

Visitors of all ages can visit the Owls Head Transportation Museum for free this Veterans Day! In addition to the usual exhibits, some extra-special events are scheduled for Free Admission Day, including live steam engine demonstrations, historical reenactments, and a vintage race car run. You’ll also enjoy 11% off at the museum store all day, plus special discounts on museum membership.

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday
Where: Owls Head Transportation Museum

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The post The Maine Weekender, 11/11—11/13 appeared first on The Maine Mag.

Now that Halloween is behind us, we’re setting our sights on the remainder of the year: the end of daylight saving time (don’t forget to change your clocks on Sunday—that is, if you still have any manual ones), followed by Thanksgiving, the winter holidays, and ringing in 2024. If there’s anything you plan to accomplish in 2023, whether it’s trying a new restaurant, making a new friend, visiting an unfamiliar town, or even just setting time aside for self-care, you have about eight weeks left to get cracking! Here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Somewhere to Go

Looking to avoid the crazy crowds this season? We don’t blame you. Get a head start on your annual holiday shopping at the Early Bird Sale-A-Bration in Freeport on Saturday. With deep discounts, surprise gift cards, and the best deals of the year, it’s a great opportunity to shop local and support your favorite Freeport businesses. Be sure to stop by Freeport Market for complimentary coffee and donuts before you begin!

When: Starting 8 a.m. Saturday
Where: Freeport

Something to Do

Download the Social Scavenger app and get ready to interact with businesses, discover historical landmarks, and have fun exploring the town at the Discover Downtown Westbrook Scavenger Hunt on Sunday! Teams of two to five people will have two hours to earn as many points as possible by competing in challenges, solving brain teasers, answering trivia questions, and reproducing popular memes. Once you’ve completed the scavenger hunt, head over to the afterparty at The Stockhouse Restaurant and Sports Pub for free appetizers while you wait for the winners to be announced. Tickets are $10 and all proceeds will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters.

When: 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday
Where: Downtown Westbrook

Something to Eat

Though micro-boulangerie ZU Bakery won’t officially open for business in Portland’s West End for another two weeks, owner and baker Barak Olins is testing out his equipment with a series of soft-opening pop-ups that give Mainers a chance to try his delectable baked goods. The to-go bakery, located right next to Portland newcomer The Danforth, will offer a limited array of rustic breads and pastries made from freshly milled regional grains, plus pizza alla Romana, biscotti, granola, coffee, and a revolving selection of wine.

When: 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays
Where: 81 Clark Street, Portland

Something to Drink

Augusta hotspot State Lunch, winner of both our “Best Bartender” (Brittany Parlin) and “Best Cocktail Bar” categories in this year’s Maine Food + Drink Reader’s Choice Awards, is currently showcasing two incredible cocktails that you don’t want to miss. The EL, named after Eleven from Stranger Things, features Bar Hill Tomcat Gin, lemon, red pepper honey syrup, thyme, and herbal foam, topped with a mini waffle. Looking for something to top off your evening? Try the Irish Coffee, made with Slaine Irish whiskey and housemade coffee concentrate, topped with a layer of fresh cream.

When: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday
Where: 217 Water Street, Augusta

Something to See

Visit the Southworth Planetarium Friday for a deep dive into the spectacular world of moons. In Moons: Worlds of Mystery, a 35-minute family-friendly show from the Charles Hayden Planetarium at the Museum of Science in Boston, you’ll explore the solar system’s satellites and learn what they contribute to our knowledge of outer space. Following the show, take a live look at the night sky and participate in a Q&A session with the planetarium’s staff.

When: 1 p.m. Friday
Where: 70 Falmouth Street, Portland

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The post The Maine Weekender, 11/4—11/6 appeared first on The Maine Mag.

 Ah, sweet summer! How do you decide when the season that gave Vacationland its name officially begins? Is it on Memorial Day or the summer solstice? Is it when you finally hear the spring peepers on warm evenings? Or perhaps it’s the moment you smell that distinct, sweet scent of a humid afternoon in the Pine Tree State? No matter how you decide, here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Something to Do:

Are you curious about Maine’s rich maritime history and want to learn more? Head to Portland this Saturday to take part in Walk the Working Waterfront! Featuring a series of events including a walking tour of Portland’s working waterfront along Commercial Street, boat cruises, and educational demonstrations such as tuna dissections, among other activities, you’re sure to finish the day with a newfound appreciation for Maine’s history with and relationship to the ocean! Please note that the walking tour is free, but other events are ticketed and require pre-registration to participate.

When: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Saturday
Where: Various piers and wharves along Commercial St., Portland

Somewhere to Go: 

Have you heard about the alewives yet? Every year, thousands of these tenacious fish migrate upstream to spawn, but only for a short period of time! Make sure you get the chance to see them by signing up for this Saturday’s guided walk at Mill Brook Preserve, hosted by the Presumpscot Regional Land Trust. The event is free of charge but has a limited capacity, so be sure to secure your spot ASAP!

When: 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Saturday
Where: Mill Brook Preserve, Westbrook

Something to Eat:

If you were a big fan of Portland restaurant Five Fifty Five—which closed in early 2020—great news! Owners of the Portland standby Steve and Michelle Cory opened a reimagining of the restaurant, 555 North, at the Federal Hotel in Brunswick on May 19. With a menu focused on locally sourced ingredients, fresh seafood, and modern takes on classic dishes, fans of the former Five Fifty Five are sure to find something to love. Make a reservation today! 

When: 5–9 p.m. Thursdays-Mondays
Where: 10 Water St., Brunswick

Something to Drink: 

If you’re ready for a drink and a tasty snack after a long week, make your way to Lone Pine Brewing Company’s Gorham tasting room this Saturday for Donut-Palooza! Created in collaboration with the Holy Donut, Lone Pine will be serving doughnuts paired with a series of beers featuring flavors inspired by the doughnut shop’s signature potato delicacies. Options include a blueberry glaze sour ale paired with a blueberry doughnut, a margarita craft seltzer with a margarita doughnut, a coffee cake imperial stout with a coffee cake doughnut, and more! Choose four pairings for your flight and tuck in. 

When: 12–6 p.m. Saturday
Where: 48 Sanford Dr., Gorham

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The post The Maine Weekender, 6/3—6/5 appeared first on The Maine Mag.