A celebration of Maine’s thriving oyster aquaculture industry held each September on the Damariscotta River, featuring oyster shucking contests, local seafood, live music, and stunning river scenery.
Maine Open Lighthouse Day
Once a year in September, the US Coast Guard opens Maine’s working lighthouses to the public for tours and demonstrations — a rare chance to climb active light towers and meet the keepers.
Fryeburg Fair
Maine’s largest agricultural fair and one of New England’s finest, the Fryeburg Fair runs for eight days each October with livestock exhibitions, harness racing, midway rides, ox pulls, and classic fair food.
Maine International Film Festival
A ten-day celebration of independent cinema held each July in Waterville, featuring over 100 films, filmmaker Q&As, and the Mid-Life Achievement Award presented to a major film industry figure.
Maine Fiber Frolic
A celebration of fiber arts held each June in Windsor, featuring sheep shearing demonstrations, alpaca shows, spinning and weaving, and vendors selling wool, yarn, and fiber art supplies.
Windjammer Days Festival
Boothbay Harbor’s signature summer festival celebrates Maine’s legendary windjammer fleet with tall ship parades, fireworks, live music, and waterfront activities over five days each June.
Maine Highland Games
A celebration of Scottish heritage featuring Highland athletics, pipe bands, Celtic music, and traditional Scottish food and crafts, held annually at the Thomas Point Beach in Brunswick.
Yarmouth Clam Festival
One of Maine’s most popular summer festivals, the Yarmouth Clam Festival draws over 100,000 visitors for three days of clam chowder, fried clams, carnival rides, live music, and a parade.
Maine Boats Homes & Harbors Show
New England’s premier in-the-water boat show, held each August in Rockland, features over 100 boats, home products, and marine services against the backdrop of Penobscot Bay.
Crown of Maine Balloon Festival
One of New England’s finest hot air balloon festivals, held each August in Presque Isle with mass balloon launches at dawn and dusk, tethered rides, and evening glow shows over four days.