Maine is known for its stunning landscapes, fresh seafood, and charming towns. But beyond the iconic lobster rolls, the state boasts a vibrant calendar of unique fairs and festivals throughout the summer and fall. Join us on a tour of some of our favorite lesser-known fairs and festivals that you can enjoy during our rental season!
- June:
- Maine Whoopie Pie Festival (Belfast): Celebrate the iconic Maine treat with whoopie pie contests, live music, and family-friendly activities. (Early June)
- Maine International Film Festival (Waterville): Immerse yourself in independent cinema with screenings, workshops, and Q&A sessions. (Mid-June)
- The Maine Fiber Frolic (Windsor): For all our yarny friends! If you like yarn or adorable live animals (or both) this is the spot for you! Meet local small farmers, amazing vendors from all over New England, and fellow makers! There will be demonstrations, workshops, vendor booths, and more!
- Maine Oyster Festival (Freeport): Some of the best oysters in the world come from Maine’s clear waters, particularly from the midcoast! (It’s a mixture of temperatures, clean water, and the exact salinity that makes big, yummy oysters!) If you’re a fan, you’ll want to check this out!
- July:
- Yarmouth Clam Festival (Yarmouth): Savor fresh clams, enjoy live music, witness the legendary clam shucking contest, and witness a vibrant parade. (Mid-July)
- Annual Native American Pow-Wow (Wells): Take in some Native culture as you arrive or depart Maine! Always held on a weekend, this is a great stop on your trip to learn about indigenous traditions, culture, and crafts! Expect drums and dancing, raffles, and some pretty incredible vendors!
- August:
- Maine Highland Games & Festival (Unity): Experience Scottish heritage with traditional music, dancing, athletic competitions, and kilted festivities. (Early August)
- Maine Lobster Festival (Rockland): Indulge in all things lobster, from the famous lobster roll eating contest to live music and fireworks. (Early August)
- Maine Authors Book Festival (Thomaston): I mean, who doesn’t love a good book? Maine has a ton of amazing authors, from some of the most famous of the modern day (looking at you, Stephen King), to hidden gem writers who are just waiting for you to discover them! You’ll find all kinds of genres for all ages – and what a great souvenir or gift these books would be!
- September:
- Common Ground Fair (Unity): Explore sustainable living through workshops, demonstrations, live music, and a vibrant marketplace showcasing local crafts and organic food. (Late September)
- Litchfield Fair (Litchfield): Embrace the charm of a small-town fair with livestock shows, carnival rides, and a nostalgic atmosphere. (Early September)
- The Maine Cheese Festival (Pittsfield): Did you know that Maine has a rich cheesemaking culture? From cheddars to stiltons, chevre to raclette, this festival is a day of cheesy goodness!
- Maine Open Lighthouse Day (Multiple Locations): Sponsored by the Coast Guard and the Maine Office of Tourism, this is the day when the most lighthouses will be open in Maine, including several that are not normally open to the public! Come celebrate our maritime history and learn about some amazing people, including Abbie Burgess and Kate Moore – two young girls who ran lighthouses in times of great need, helping to keep sailors safe in a time before GPS and radio!