I hope you saved some energy from last weekend because we’ve got another lineup of fantastic events to keep you busy having fun in Portland!
From funky jams at Portland Lobster Co. with Skosh to the vibrant beats of HIVE’s Under The Sea Rave, this weekend is excitement and entertainment for all. Dive into the arts at the East Bayside Block Party or enjoy a soul-stirring performance at Shakespeare’s Love’s Labor’s Lost in Deering Oaks Park. Into live music? Check. Outdoor theater? Check! Immersive themed parties? CHECK! Get ready to make the most of this weekend’s festivities!
Here’s The Weekend Guide for Friday, July 12th – Sunday, July 14th, 2024
Friday the 12th
Brownstone Brews & Bites | Victoria Mansion | 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Join Victoria Mansion for a delightful summer evening at Brownstone Brews & Bites, presented by Allagash Brewing, on the Mansion lawn. Celebrating an 18-year partnership with Allagash, this annual fundraiser promises an evening of fine beverages including Allagash beer, Cellardoor wine, and Green Bee soda. Enjoy live music by the Pete Kilpatrick Band, delectable catering from Cheese Louise, and sweet treats from Sullivan House Bakery. Your participation supports the Mansion’s ongoing historic preservation efforts, focusing on the preservation of the Mansion’s iconic brownstone exterior. Tickets.
Shakespeare’s: Love’s Labor’s Lost | Deering Oaks Park | 6:30 PM (Thursday – Saturdays July 11th – August 3rd)
Fenix Theatre Company invites you to Shakespeare’s Love’s Labor’s Lost in Deering Oaks Park, a delightful comedy directed by Katelyn Manfre. Set on the enchanting island of Navarre, witness the comedic chaos unfold as the King and his lords swear off women just as the Princess of France and her ladies arrive. With rich characters, lively original music, and witty wordplay, this fast-paced production promises an unforgettable summer night under the stars. Join for this beloved Fenix tradition in Portland, Maine’s scenic Deering Oaks Park—bring a chair, pack a picnic, and immerse yourself in Shakespearean magic with a talented cast of 8 local Maine actors and original songs by Paul Fidalgo.
Big Yellow Taxi: The Music of Joni Mitchell | One Longfellow Square | 8:00 PM
Big Yellow Taxi is a New England-based band that passionately delves into the timeless music of Joni Mitchell, from her early folk roots to her jazz-infused compositions. Led by the expressive vocals of Teresa Lorenço, known for her versatile performances in folk, rock, burlesque, and musical theater, the band brings together a team of seasoned musicians committed to delivering an immersive live experience. Their mission is to go beyond mere imitation, capturing Joni Mitchell’s musical intensity and genius. With a repertoire of Joni’s most beloved songs, Big Yellow Taxi aims to entertain, move, and exhilarate audiences, leaving them deeply connected to the emotional journey of Mitchell’s iconic music. Tickets.
Illiterate Light – Slow Down Time Tour | PHOME | 8:00 PM
Prepare for an unforgettable night with Illiterate Light on their “Slow Down Time” tour, showcasing their explosive alternative rock sound led by singer-guitarist Jeff Gorman and drummer Jake Cochran. Since their 2015 inception, the duo has been known for their innovative live performances, incorporating bike-powered stages and a fiercely egalitarian approach to songwriting. Their latest album “Sunburned,” released via Thirty Tigers, marks a significant evolution with rich keyboard textures, programmed percussion, and anthemic choruses that amplify their studio prowess. Meanwhile, Nova One, led by Roz Raskin, brings a celebration of self-acceptance and vulnerability with their lush, dreamy music from the LP “create myself,” inviting listeners to embrace compassion and love through their heartfelt melodies. Tickets.
Saturday the 13th
Rexy Dinosaur | Wilson County Barbecue | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Get ready for a wild musical journey every Friday and Saturday at Wilson County Barbecue! Starting the weekend right, Rexy Disonaur takes the stage this Friday! Rexy Dinosaur, known for a unique blend of original music and covers, Rexy Dinosaur spins tales of cowboys and dinosaurs—sometimes both. Join for a night of lively tunes, delicious barbecue, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of quirky lyrics or toe-tapping beats, Rexy Dinosaur promises a memorable evening.
Tekno | Aura | 8:00 PM Doors
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Join for an electrifying evening as Nigerian singer, songwriter, and pop R&B artist Tekno takes the stage at Aura for a special one-night-only performance. Recognized by global icons like Drake, Ciara, and Elton John, Tekno promises to bring his infectious beats and chart-topping hits to Portland, Maine. Presented by INNOX Entertainment, this is a rare opportunity to catch Tekno live in the States during his brief tour. Afrobeat DJs will set the stage before Tekno’s performance. Don’t miss out on this chance to witness Tekno’s rising star and his dynamic blend of Afrobeat and R&B.Tickets.
HIVE: Under The Sea Themed Rave | Free Street | 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Dive deep into an unforgettable summer experience at HIVE’s Under The Sea Rave! Join for a rave by the reef, where you’ll immerse in the mysteries of the deep and dance alongside sea creatures. Release your inner mermaid or sea creature and let your imagination swim freely as you submerge into waves of beats and bass. Experience a full festival atmosphere with our Elements Festival rig, featuring top-quality audio by 207 Sounds, LED walls, a massive octopus stage, and surprise elements that define a HIVE Production event. Whether you’re a seasoned sea raver or a curious land-dweller, this aquatic party promises an underwater adventure like no other. Unite under the bioluminescent lights and embrace the depths together! Tickets.
Pin Maine-ia | Arcadia | 9:00 AM
The legendary pinball tournament returns! Get ready for the 16th annual Pin Maine-ia tournament, coming to Arcadia! This event kicks off an exciting pinball week just before the NEPL Finals. Spots are capped at 96 players, so mark your calendars! Format: Group Matchplay – 3 games per round. Don’t miss your chance to compete in one of Maine’s premier pinball tournaments and join the excitement at Arcadia! Sign-up.
Fiddles & Pipes | Merrill Auditorium | 7:00 PM
Step into a vibrant celebration of summer with “Fiddles & Pipes,” an enchanting concert that explores Maine’s rich musical traditions. Join as Kotzchmar Organ pays homage to the enduring folk music-making heritage of Maine, blending fiddle, guitar, banjo, mandolin, and voice with the majestic sounds of the pipe organ. Presented in collaboration with guest artists from 317 Main in Yarmouth, Maine, renowned for its dedication to music education and community connection, this soul-stirring concert promises to captivate music lovers of all ages. Experience favorite bluegrass, Shaker, and Americana melodies brought to life through lively reels and soulful ballads. Lineup features seasoned performers and emerging artists, showcasing their remarkable talents in an evening filled with unforgettable melodies and infectious rhythms. Tickets.
Sunday the 14th
East Bayside Block Party | East Bayside – Multiple Locations | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Get ready for a full day of bites, brews, music, art and more at the East Bayside Block Party! One of Portland’s most vibrant neighborhoods is celebrating the diverse arts and environmental nonprofits, independent businesses, and fantastic food and beverages that make East Bayside so special (hence the nickname “YEast Bayside”). Explore local artisans, community yard sales, art demonstrations, businesses, and community organizations all day. Bring the whole family for a variety of activities, including: Steamy Summer Print Jam at Running With Scissors Art Studios, where you can ink up oversized blocks for live block printing; and live glass blowing demos, puppet making workshops, and paint-your-own pottery activities. Plus, local DJs spinning summer anthems all day long! Participating businesses include Toad&Co, Rising Tide Brewing, Great Waves Sushi, Bite Into Maine, Orange Bike Brewing Co., Freedom’s Edge Cider, Bicycle Coalition of Maine, Portland Trails, and more!
Learn more + participating businesses!
Steamy Summer Print Jam | Running with Scissors Art Studios | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Witness the spectacle of oversized blocks, ranging from 4×4′ to 4×8′, being printed by local artists and print groups using a three-ton asphalt roller. Enjoy music, family-friendly activities, delicious food and beverages, and art for sale in the The Running With Scissors Art Studios’ parking lot at 250 Anderson Street in Portland, Maine. This free event welcomes everyone, with parking available on Anderson Street, Marginal Way, and the nearby commuter lot. Come support the local community and explore the neighboring East Bayside businesses hosting their own art-focused activities! As part of the East Bayside Block Party (Rain Date: July 20th).
2024 Finals Watch Party | Bissell Brothers | 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Mark your calendars because Bissell Brothers is the place to be for an epic soccer celebration! They’re kicking off their newly announced partnership with Hearts of Pine by hosting a double-header watch party for the Euro 2024 and Copa America finals. Enjoy the matches on the big screen with plenty of beers, bevvies, and delicious eats from the kitchen. The Euro Final kicks off at 3 PM, followed by the Copa America Final at 8 PM. Join for a day filled with fandom, camaraderie, and community spirit.
Skosh | Portland Lobster Company | 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Skosh, a dynamic Funk/Rock/Jam band hailing from Buckfield, Maine, is set to ignite the deck at Portland Lobster Co. With a lineup featuring Jedidiah Allen on drums/vocals, Elijah Allen on bass/vocals, Jay Larkin on guitar/vocals, and Pete Richard on Saxophone, Skosh has been a fixture on Maine’s music scene since 2007. They’ve shared stages with national acts like The Charlie Daniels Band, X Ambassadors, and Twiddle, showcasing their eclectic mix of “Phish-inspired tunes laced with the eclecticism that made rockers Ween famous in the 1990s,” as described by The Portland Press Herald. Known for their electrifying stage presence and vibrant improvisations!
For more events head to our Events Calendar here.