Community events calendar
Free and low-cost workshops, webinars, festivals, volunteering and more around Maine!
Naturalist Workshop Series: Porcupine Meander • Midcoast Conservancy
Join us for a walk at Bass Falls Preserve to search for early signs of spring and talk about Porcupines. We’ll follow the trail through private fields, into the woods, and down to the Sheepscot River where sits an abandoned fisherman's cabin taken over by porcupines. With luck we’ll find some quills to examine and skat to avoid. These common woodland rodents waddle their way through life, hanging out in trees, nibbling hemlock and relying on their quills to defend themselves against predators.

Science on the Bay: What we Learned in 2024 • Friends of Casco Bay
Join us for our annual science webinar, where we’ll talk about The Science Behind Baykeeping and dive into some of our most recent data about Casco Bay. We will cover eelgrass, ocean acidification, water quality monitoring, what you can do to keep the Bay healthy and much more! Register for free today!
P.S. While we won’t be covering our PFAS study at this webinar, we plan to share updates on this important research at a future event!

Curriculum Workshop: Maple Sugaring in a Changing Climate • Gulf of Maine Research Institute
Join GMRI staff and educators from Oxford Hills for a day long workshops to learn about this Maine-focused maple curriculum resource.

Maine Maple Sunday Weekend • Maine Maple Producers
Spring is a great time to get out and enjoy the great State of Maine and everything that it has to offer, including Maine Maple Syrup.
Most sugarhouses offer maple syrup samples and demonstrations on how pure Maine maple syrup is made. Many farms offer games, activities, treats, sugarbush tours, music, and so much more.

Ski-A-Thon • Maine Adaptive
The 37th Annual Ski-A-Thon is a one-of-a-kind fundraising event brings together participants of all ages and abilities to support adaptive sports programs for individuals with disabilities. This beloved community event takes place at Sunday River and features a fun-filled day on the slopes to celebrate a winter of spreading awareness while raising funds for adaptive recreation.

Sustainability Series: Building a Resilient Portland • Portland Public Library
The significant coastal flooding caused by the storms in January, 2024 underscored the urgency needed to make our city more resilient in the face of climate change. Join Troy Moon, City of Portland Sustainability Director, and members of the Portland Sustainability Team to learn about additional actions the city has taken to improve resilience and about initiatives that are just getting started.

Discover Water Reporter: Help Be the Eyes of the Bay • Friends of Casco Bay
Join us for an engaging and inspiring introduction to Water Reporter—our community-powered effort to document changes along the coast and help protect Casco Bay.
Using their smartphones, volunteer Water Reporters capture observations of coastal changes, such as algal blooms, erosion, sea level rise, pollution, and wildlife sightings. These reports provide essential data to help safeguard the health of Casco Bay! We hope you will join us!
Film Screening: A Peace of Forest March 29 • Portland Trails
Portland Trails is proud to partner with nine other Portland-area land trusts and trail organizations to host a screening of the Maine-made wildlife documentary A Peace of Forest at USM’s Hannaford Hall on Saturday, March 29th. Doors will open at 6:30pm, and the film will begin at 7pm. A Q+A with the filmmakers and producers, Lee Ann and Thomas Szelog, will be held from 8:30-9pm.

Seed Swap & Scion Exchange • MOFGA
Gardeners and orchardists are invited to bring their seeds, scionwood (fruit tree wood for propagating fruit trees), and plants to share. You don’t need to bring anything in order to participate! There is always an abundance of seeds and scionwood donated by community members and producers.

Grow Your Own Organic Garden • MOFGA
Grow Your Own Organic Garden covers all the basics of organic gardening — such as supporting soil and plant health, starting seeds indoors and outdoors, interplanting, pest management, watering, and harvesting.

Art in Bloom 2025 • Portland Museum of Art
Featuring floral work by designers, artists, farmers, and florists from across southern Maine, the museum comes alive with fragrant blooms, extravagant displays, and incredible floral installations of all types—each inspired by an artwork from the museum’s collection.

Imagining a Healthy Future for Casco Bay: A Student Perspective • Friends of Casco Bay
Join Maine College of Art & Design students who have used their creativity to explore the health of Casco Bay. Their artwork—spanning topics like climate change, eelgrass restoration, PFAS, and wastewater treatment—transforms complex environmental issues into powerful visual stories.
These students will share their artistic process, what concerns and inspires them about the future. Grab your lunch and join us online! Register today.

The Alewife Journey: A Conservation Success Story • Gulf of Maine Research Institute
Film premiere and panel discussion on alewife conservation, featuring experts from GMRI and the Presumpscot Regional Land Trust.

Spring Is In The Air Fundraiser • Indigo Arts Alliance
There is no part like an Indigo Party! Mark your calendars Thursday April 10 at 6:30pm for an electrifying night celebrating six years of creativity and community. Featuring an art auction, diasporic cuisine, cocktails, and special performances, Spring Is In The AiR will be the event of the season.

Mindful Observation: Spring Session • Friends of Casco Bay
Join Water Reporter Davinica Nemtzow for each of the four seasons to hone your observation skills amidst meadows, forests, saltwater marsh, freshwater, and more. Davinica will lead grounding exercises to heighten our senses, followed by a guided walk exploring the dynamic interactions of fresh and saltwater ecosystems. We’ll conclude each session with moments of reflection. All are welcome! Please visit our website to register and learn more.

Spring Artisan Market • Friends of South School
Friends of South School is excited to announce our first annual Spring Artisan Market. Makers of all types come together to offer lovingly made products in the heart of Rockland at the Flanagan Community Center. Come support the Rockland elementary school and your neighbors with free admission! Vendor spaces available on our website.

30th Annual Bike Rodeo and Family Safety Day • Brunswick Parks & Recreation Department and MaineHealth Mid Coast Hospital
We are so excited to celebrate 30 years of Bike Rodeo and Family Safety. With new details being added regularly (stay tuned for updates), you can count on the regulars:
• Bike Registration with Brunswick PD
• Bicycle Safety Check from local professionals
• Helmet Check/Helmet Give-Aways
• Bicycle Rodeo Safety Course
• Bicycle Give-Aways
Bring your own bike or borrow one at the event! Can't wait to see you there!

Cape Elizabeth Garden Tour • Friends of Fort Williams Park
This popular event wanders through seaside neighborhoods and highlights backyard wildlife habitats and native plants. As a primary fundraiser for the Friends of Fort Williams Park, the proceeds from the tour support stewardship efforts to preserve and enhance Fort Williams Park.

Ossipee Valley Music Festival 2025
Ossipee Valley is a music festival in Maine. The festival features five stages, food trucks, craft beer, yoga, barn dances, workshops, kids activities, artisan craft vendors and RV and tent camping. It is dreamily situated on the banks of the Ossipee river, amongst tall pines and goat barns, in southern Maine, under an hour from Portland or North Conway, and 2.5 hrs NW of Boston. The event sells out, so don't wait to grab your tickets!

Maine Quilts Show 2025 • Pine Tree Quilters Guild
500+ quilts, special exhibits, merchant’s mall, lectures, demos, raffles, national teachers, and special events! Air-conditioned; convenient, free parking. Admission: $15; multi-day $30; children 12 & under free with paid adult. Air-conditioned; convenient, free parking. Find us at www.mainequilts.org and on facebook.com/MaineQuilts.
Portland Greendrinks x Cumberland County Food Security Council
Cumberland County Food Security Council’s mission is to initiate and facilitate collaborative action towards a just, resilient, and sustainable food system that ensures equitable access for all people to enough healthy food.

Bangor Greendrinks Night at the Brewseum
The whole museum will be open to explore including their newest exhibit, River in our Backyard. This exhibit highlights a water feature focusing on the Penobscot River Watershed and was partially funded by a Bangor Greendrinks Green Grant!

Keep Maine Moving Forward: Climate Action in Uncertain Times • Maine Conservation Voters
As climate setbacks continue at the federal level, it’s more important than ever that Maine forges ahead with bold policies to cut pollution, build clean energy, and strengthen community resilience. Despite national challenges, there are clear opportunities to drive progress at the state level and ensure Maine is a leader in climate action.

Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race
The Can-Am Crown organization was founded on October 16, 1992 as a non-profit corporation under the laws of the State of Maine. It was established to provide a mid-distance sled dog race to a growing community of mushers from throughout the international region and to enhance the region's image as a travel destination. The Can-Am Crown 250 has rapidly gained popularity as the longest sled dog race in the eastern United States.

Comedy Show to Benefit Portland Trails • Moccia Comedy Productions
You’re invited to a night of laughter and fun, all to support the trails you love! Moccia Comedy Productions is hosting a comedy night on Saturday, Feb. 22nd at Freedom’s Edge Cider. Five local and regional comedians will perform while you sip on delicious craft cider. Every ticket sold will benefit Portland Trails!

Annual Tournament • Acadian Classic Pond Hockey
The Acadian Pond Hockey Classic is having its 6th Annual 3 on 3 Pond Hockey Tournament off the shores of Long Lake in St. Agatha, Maine. The event is a fundraising event benefiting minor hockey programs on both sides of the border in the greater St. John Valley area.

Annual Belfast Ice Festival & State of Maine Ice Carving Championship
Come take a walk and visit the ice sculptures that will be located throughout downtown Belfast. Take a break and have a drink at one of the ice bars or participate in one of the many outdoor activities Belfast has to offer throughout the winter. If you’re visiting from out of town, make it a weekend!
Norway Maine Snowshoe Festival
Save the date for the 2025 Norway Maine Snowshoe Festival, presented by the Western Foothills Land Trust!
Learn more at wfltmaine.org/snowshoe-festival

Sea State: Hope and the Gulf of Maine • Gulf of Maine Research Institute
The Gulf of Maine is warming faster than many of the world’s oceans, but its productivity is driven by a unique combination of factors—global currents, ocean floor, and more—that create a dynamic and resilient environment. GMRI’s fall Sea State series will explore their efforts to foster resilience and share reasons for optimism about the Gulf’s future and the communities that rely on it.
Portland Community Squash x Portland Greendrinks
Portland Greendrinks’ February event benefits Portland Community Squash: PCS aims to build an accessible community center that holistically supports and unites its members. We envision a community with enough social and human capital to overcome ever-changing societal challenges and prosper.
Slipping Gears x Bangor Greendrinks
Greendrinks is heading back to Slipping Gears Cycling to sip beers and talk bikes on February 11th from 5-8pm. Slipping Gears will be showing off its numerous options for getting folks out on a bike as well as partnering with Penobscot Region NEMBA (New England Mountain Biking Association) to highlight all the love that cyclists put into making our local trail network so wonderful.

Green Spotlight Series: Tree Care Strategies for Our Changing Climate • Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Climate change impacts both heritage and newly planted tree species. Kristina Bezanson, Master Arborist and professor at UMass Stockbridge, will discuss specialized arboriculture practices, tree selection, and analyses that will help to prevent, protect, or extend the life of our valuable trees. Foresters, arborists, landscapers, or land stewards, will benefit from this vital discussion of how we consider the evolving effects of climate change.

Mending for Your Heart & Clothes • Mechanics' Hall
Join us for a cozy afternoon of communal learning at the Hall! Warm your heart as you discover how to mend clothes and refresh your wardrobe with a touch of love.

Family Winterkids Ski Day
Get the Winterkids App and 2 kids will ski for free w/paid adult. Family activities, skiing, scavenger hunt and lots of fun for the whole family.
Learn more at www.cartersxcski.com

2025 Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour—Portland • Chestnut Mountain Productions
Get ready for an unforgettable three-hour celebration of mountain sports, adventure, culture, and the environment! The 2025 Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour is back, showcasing the most exhilarating short films featuring explorers, runners, mountain bikers, skiers, paddlers, and climbers from around the globe. Now back for its 27th year, the this event is hosted by Chestnut Mountain Productions.

Yoga for Good - Support Casco Bay with Every Stretch! • Friends of Casco Bay and Toad and Co
Cost: $15 donation which is donated to FOCB!
All-levels, beginner-friendly yoga class (ages 12+)
Bring-your-own-props (mats are available for purchase at Toad&Co). We will also have some extra mats for folks to borrow.
Drop-ins are welcome, but space is limited—Secure your spot by registering!
After class, enjoy coffee, snacks, and a special 30% discount on Toad&Co!

207 Day Scavenger Hunt • Portland Downtown
Join Portland Downtown for an annual citywide scavenger hunt celebrating Maine’s beloved area code! This free, self-paced adventure takes you across the city to discover hidden gems, shops, and hotspots using clues and riddles. Snap goofy photos along the way for a chance to win prizes! Plus, downtown businesses offer special 207 Day deals like $2.07 brews and 20.7% discounts.

Coffee with the Casco Baykeeper: Stormy Times Call for Action • Friends of Casco Bay
Remember last year’s devastating winter storms? Join us for an engaging conversation with Representative Arthur Bell about stormwater pollution and a proposed bill to address this growing threat to Maine’s waters.
Over coffee, we will discuss Maine’s largest uncontrolled source of water pollution—stormwater and how it negatively affects our waters. Rep Bell will share insights on a proposed bill. Bring your questions to this informative talk!

Mindful Observation: Winter Session • Friends of Casco Bay
Join Davinica Nemtzow for each of the four seasons to hone your observation skills amidst meadows, forests, saltwater marsh, freshwater, and more. Davinica will lead grounding exercises to heighten our senses, followed by a guided walk exploring the dynamic interactions of fresh and saltwater ecosystems. We’ll conclude each session with moments of reflection.
Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your connection with nature! All are welcome : )

Coffee with the Casco Baykeeper: Maine's Toxic PFAS Firefighting Foam • Friends of Casco Bay
Last August, the largest accidental spill of toxic firefighting foam ever recorded in Maine sparked alarm about the PFAS “forever chemicals” it contains. Join us for a talk with Representative Ankeles about these legislative efforts and their significance for Maine’s waters and communities. FOCB will also share findings from Friends of Casco Bay and Bigelow Laboratory's 3 year PFAS study. PFAS is linked to serious heath risks so come learn more!
Wooden Ski Day
Wooden Ski Day. Fundraiser for Maine Ski & Snowboard Museum.
Family fun celebration of Nordic skiing's History!
Free trail pass for folks on wooden skis. Any skis are accepted and invited.
Costume Parade: Wear your old vintage or Retro Nordic ski clothing and be in the parade. Get in the spirit of celebrating the history of Nordic skiing. Prizes will be given to 3 winners in these categories: Most old timey or traditional Nordic Ski Wear. Retro 70's/80's clothing, And most overall Creative. Ski Parade starts at 1pm. Ski historian, Glenn Parkinson from Maine Ski Museum will share his knowledge of nordic ski history. Bring your ski artifacts to learn more. Live Music at 2pm, a Food truck will be here from 11-3 and beer will be available. Profits will benefit Maine Ski and Snowboard Museum.
Learn more at www.cartersxcski.com

Dark Skies Artists' Reception • UMVA, Waterfall Arts, and Dark Sky Main
Waterfall Arts in collaboration with Dark Sky Maine and the Union of Maine Visual Artists presents Dark Skies, a juried art exhibit opening January 17th and continuing to February 28th at Waterfall Arts. At the artists' reception and talk,Nancy Hathaway, founder of Dark Sky Maine will give a short speech about exhibition and her founding of Dark Sky Maine. It will include info on the 28 minute video ‘Defending the Dark’... available on their website www.darkskymaine.com

Vegetarian Victorians • Maine Historical Society
The early years of vegetarianism in the U.S. have been woefully misunderstood. Join Adam Shprintzen for a presentation that will set the record straight!

Entertaining with Maine Ingredients: Mocktail Mixology
In this class, explore a variety of mocktail-ready ingredients made right here in Maine - syrups, shrubs, infusions, flavored sugars and more - and learn how to turn them into beautiful non-alcoholic drinks that are sure to impress.
Backyard Maple Syrup Production Webinar • MOFGA
Join University of Maine Extension Maple Industry Educator, Jason Lilley, to learn everything you need to know about making your own maple syrup. We’ll discuss identifying and tapping trees, collecting and boiling sap, as well as filtering, grading, and canning syrup. Jason will focus on homestead-scale systems that require a limited initial investment in equipment. Designed for beginners and offered at a sliding scale of $0-$15.

Maine Fungi Fest 2025 • Moovin On Productions
"All Things Fungi, Plant Based Healing & Evolving Consciousness"
Maine Fungi Fest is coming to Saint Joseph's College Friday, May 30th through Sunday, June 1st! This experience celebrates the incredible world of all things fungi, plant-based healing, and evolving consciousness.


Sea Bags Bags & Bites Boxing Day Sample Sale • Sea Bags and the Porthole
SAVE BIG on Sea Bags Samples-Totes for $80! Visit our Factory Store on Custom House Wharf to shop a large selection of Totes of all sizes - while supplies last. We're liquidating samples and older designs to make room for the NEW YEAR! Stop in at the Porthole for a bite or a drink and get a Free Wristlet with your tote purchase when you show your receipt from the Porthole! Plus, the Porthole is giving away gift cards to anyone who buys a Sea Bag.
Winter Solstice Celebration • Midcoast Conservancy
Come one, come all to celebrate the Winter Solstice at Hidden Valley Nature Center! Over the last few months the nights have been getting longer and longer. We settle into the darkness earlier each evening and awaken when the sky is still black. On December 21st the winter solstice marks the longest night of the year and the official start of winter, after which the days will gradually get longer.

Sustainability Series: Weather & Climate with the NWS Forecast Office • Portland Public Library
Between the summers of 2023 and 2024, Northern New England has experienced multiple record flood events from both unprecedented rainfall and storm surge. Join Portland Public Library, Momentum Conservation, and meteorologist Derek Schroeter for an overview of what National Weather Service (NWS) meteorologists do to warn the public of these events.