For full listings of what’s going on all week in the Old Port, be sure to visit our Events page.
Friday, September 11: Local food and spirits blogger Kate McCarty will be at the Maine Historical Society Friday night to read from her new book, “Distilled in Maine: A History of Libations, Temperance & Craft Spirits,” and to share stories about Maine’s complicated history with alcohol (we’re side eying you, Neal Dow). The talk is being presented in partnership with Vena’s Fizz House, and Vena’s co-owner and amazing mixologist Steve Corman will be on hand to concoct some cocktail samples for attendees to try. Tickets are $10 for Maine Historical Society members; $15 general admission. 5:30 – 7 pm, 489 Congress Street.
Saturday, September 12: The 2nd Annual Portland Greenfest will be held in Monument Square on Saturday. Over 60 exhibitors will be presenting solar energy, clean water protection, sustainable transportation, local foods, green household and business products, sustainable arts and crafts, children’s activities and much more. Musical performances will take place throughout the day, and a screening of the film “Growing Local” will be held at the Portland Public Library.
There will also be several free half-hour workshops on a variety of topics, including: solar electricity, biodiesel, wood pellet heating, window inserts, Maine Green Power, Efficiency Maine, heat pumps, beekeeping and more! If all those workshops makes you hungry, don’t worry, there will be food trucks on hand, including Fishin’ Ships, Love KupCakes, Locally Sauced, and Maine-Ly Meatballs! Monument Square, 10 am – 4 pm. Free!
Sunday, September 13: Ever wanted to experience what life was like in the 1800s without going through all the trouble of inventing a time machine? Then head over to the Victoria Mansion on Sunday, when the grounds will be taken over by artisans, performers, and exhibitors – all demonstrating what life was like in the nineteenth century.
- A phrenologist will be on hand to read the lumps in your head and determine your personality.
- A wandering musician will entertain crowds with traditional Victorian-era songs.
- A blacksmith will turn raw iron into useful objects right before your eyes.
- A photographer, using tin type technology, will be there to capture the magic of the day.
The mansion will also be open for self-guided tours, with last admission at 4:30. Tickets will be available on the day of the fair. Prices are $10 for adults and free for children 17 and under, college students with valid ID are $7. Victoria Mansion members and active duty military members are free of charge. Buy your ticket at the door, no advance tickets will be sold. 11 am to 5 pm, 109 Danforth Street.