As the unofficial start of the summer season for many, Memorial Day Weekend is of course one the biggest weekends for events in the city.
This weekend, tune into the debut of a popular funk jam band at Portland Lobster Co., ride the wave at Maine Craft Distilling, find what your looking for at the Maine Irish Heritage Center, and enjoy the sounds of Jamaica close to home at The Porthole and Jones Landing.
Before we jump into our Weekend Guide, we would like to thank those that have fought for our freedoms. We honor and remember those that have sacrificed so we could live in freedom. Thank you.
Here’s the Memorial Day Weekend Guide for Friday, May 26th – Monday, May 29th, 2023
Friday the 26th
State Theatre Presents: GoldenOak w/ Special Guest Dead Gowns | One Longfellow Square | 8:00 PM (Night 2 on Saturday)
Your ticket to a fun and unforgettable musical journey! GoldenOak’s music is rooted in the natural landscape- their songs move like a stream, meandering and weaving in an original yet grounding direction. Fronted by siblings Zak and Lena Kendall GoldenOak’s music calmly excites its listeners while nestled in rich folk-influenced sibling harmony. The Maine-based band has built a steady and growing fan base with this kind of energetic intimacy. This is perfectly represented in the group’s latest album “Room to Grow”- A 10-song reflection of the emotional and physical impacts of the climate crisis. The band is rounded out by up-right bassist Mike Knowles and Drummer Jackson Cromwell. Tickets.
Cheese Louise After Dark | Cheese Louise | 10:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Summer disco dance series that promises non-stop fun! If you’re a fan of drinkin’ and dancin’, you won’t want to miss this event! DJ Hey Luckii will be spinning some bumpin’ tunes that’ll keep you on your feet all night long. And guess what? They’ve got a massive disco ball for an epic evening that’ll transport you straight back to the funky era of disco!
Skösh | Portland Lobster Co. | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Time has been moved up)
Skösh – a four piece Funk/Rock/Jam band – makes their debut at Portland Lobster Company! Formed in 2007, this band is a powerhouse of talent. With Jedidiah Allen on drums/vocals, Elijah Allen on bass/vocals, Jay Larkin on guitar/vocals, and Pete Richard on saxophone, they bring the heat wherever they go. They’ve rocked stages all across the state and shared the spotlight with big names like The Charlie Daniels Band, X Ambassadors, and Twiddle. Known for their energetic stage shows and electrifying live improvisations, don’t miss out on the chance to witness their explosive performances and mind-blowing jams.
Slane- U2 Tribute | Maine Irish Heritage Center | 8:00 PM
Maine’s premiere U2 tribute band, Slane, takes the stage! These talented musicians pride themselves on capturing the iconic sound that has made U2 one of the best-selling acts of all time. Sing along to all your U2 favorites from across their legendary career as well some unexpected deeper cuts that will make this a night to remember for fans of all ages. Slane’s tribute is filled with heart and soul, making it a must-see for all U2 enthusiasts. Tickets.
Saturday the 27th
Surf Swap | Maine Craft Distilling | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Get stoked for Maine Craft Distilling’s first-ever surf swap event in collaboration with Swell Affair, Black Point Surf Shop, and the Surfrider Foundation! Whether you want to buy, sell, or trade surfboards and used gear, this is the place to be. They will have live tunes playing outdoors, a surf film screening indoors, and a variety of local art and goodies to browse. It’s a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow surf enthusiasts and score some sweet deals. If you’re planning to sell boards or gear, swing by at 11am before the event to set up your spot.
Island Resident and Mug Club Party | Inn on Peaks Island | 7:00 PM
Peaks Island residents and Inn on Peaks Island’s Mug Club members get ready for an incredible party under their stunning new outdoor tent venue! Inn on Peaks Island will have an amazing lineup of live music from The Hedgehogs, a 6-piece acoustic-electric band playing British Invasion songs. Plus, a special treat: $2 drafts exclusively for Mug Club members! Their way of saying thank you for being part of their island community. Spread the word and make sure to mark your calendars.
Go! Vintage Pop-Up | Monstera Vintage | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Save the date and get ready for a day filled with vintage treasures and good vibes with Monstera Vintage and Go Vintage and Vinyl. The perfect opportunity to indulge in some retro shopping and discover unique finds.
Taíno Petroglyphs for Kids Workshop | Mayo Street Arts | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Embark on a creative journey inspired by the ancient Taíno artists! In this workshop, delve into the rich history and significance of Taíno symbols such as the spiral, coqui frog, sun, and baby, which have been carved into cave walls and decorative rocks for thousands of years. Kids will learn the Taíno names and meanings, immersing themselves in their cultural significance. They will also have the chance to become rock artists themselves. Each participant, regardless of age, will have the opportunity to create their own unique rock designs to take home as a special memento of the workshop. This event is open to all ages, so bring your family and friends to join in the fun. Tickets.
It’s Britney! Bitch – A Diva’s Night Presented By THEM Burlesque | Empire Live | 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Oops!… THEM Burlesque Did It Again! A Diva’s Night Tribute – It’s Britney! Bitch is celebrates the iconic pop star with show-stopping performers, her greatest hits, and iconic looks. Dress as your favorite Britney and enjoy dinner, drinks, and unforgettable entertainment. Don’t forget to bring tips for the performers or they will be screaming “Gimme More!” Hosted by Clamz Kasino. Performances from: Rosie Havoc, Kinky Slippers, Minx Money, Georgi Petals, Lada Lush, and more! Tickets.
Sunday the 28th
Reggae on the Bay | The Porthole | 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise as The Porthole brings you the hottest reggae bands to this side of the bay for the summer. Starting this Sunday, get ready for a mesmerizing reggae experience. Grab your friends, get your dancing shoes on, and come down to The Porthole for a Sunday jam session like no other. Let’s keep the good times rolling!
Pig Pickin’ Time | Wilson County Barbecue | 3:00 PM
Get your taste buds and dancing shoes ready for an epic event at Wilson County Barbecue! The WCB team will be serving up a mouthwatering whole hog barbecue FEAST, accompanied by BBQ boiled potatoes, slaw, baked beans, and corn. It’s a food lover’s dream come true. While you savor the delicious flavors, groove to the live music by the incredible Breakin’ String Duo, Maine’s Bluegrass Band! Come on down, bring your appetite, and be prepared to indulge in a feast fit for barbecue enthusiasts.
Sunday Funday with Steam Reggae | Jones Landing | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Kick off the ultimate Sunday Funday experience as Jones Landing celebrates the start of another Reggae Sunday season! Get your friends together and prepare for a day filled with sun, fun, and incredible reggae beats from Stream Reggae, Maine’s premier Reggae band with 20 years of exeprience! They have an amazing lineup of live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks to keep the good vibes flowing. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Jones Landing is turning Sundays into your favorite day of the week.
Drag Brunch | Batson River Brewing & Distilling | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Get ready to sashay, brunch, and slay at Batson River’s fabulous Drag Brunch! Join for a morning of glamour and fierce performances that will leave you breathless. Their monthly Drag Brunch is back and happening on the last Sunday of each month. With shows starting at 11:45 am and 1:45 pm, it’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in delicious food while being entertained by the most talented queens in town. Make your reservation by emailing infoportland@batsonriver.com and get ready to unleash your inner diva. Hosted by the one and only Chartreuse. $5 cover.
Memorial Day – Monday the 29th
Deering Center Memorial Day Procession | Deering Center | 2:00 PM
Join for the annual Memorial Day Procession, a meaningful and patriotic event to honor our veterans. The procession will kick off at 2pm near Longfellow School and make its way north on Stevens Avenue, culminating at the Evergreen Cemetery Wilde Chapel. Following the procession, heartfelt ceremonies will take place on the chapel lawn, featuring guest speakers and special tributes to our veterans. If you’d like to pay your respects and explore, the chapel will also be open for tours. Come together to remember, honor, and show our gratitude to those who have served our country.
Lobster Demonstration Tours | Rocky Bottom Fisheries – Casco Bay | 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM (Available Friday – Sunday too)
Experience the thrilling world of lobstering on this interactive water tour! Join Rocky Bottom Fisheries as they haul and set lobster traps while surrounded by stunning landmarks and vibrant sea life. A fun and educational adventure where you’ll feel like a true Maine lobsterman. Gain a firsthand understanding of the lobster fishery as you actively participate in the process. As you immerse yourself in this hands-on experience, take in the beauty of the surroundings and the fascinating marine life that calls this area home. Book.
Memorial Day Cemetery Tour with Spirits Alive | Eastern Cemetery | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Tours offered every 30 minutes).
Discover the rich history of Portland with the Spirits Alive Eastern Cemetery tours! On this special occasion, a tour has been specially curated to honor the brave soldiers and sailors who served our nation. From the 1600s to the Civil War era, notable military figures will be highlighted, allowing you to pay tribute to their service and sacrifice. And here’s some fantastic news: military members and their families can enjoy the tour for free as a token of Spirits Alive gratitude. An engaging adventure while delving into Portland’s history, unearth intriguing stories, discover the past, and immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of this historic cemetery.
Highballs and Hand Rolls | Bar Fuot | 11:00 AM – 3: 00 PM
Join Bar Futo x Mr. Tuna for a fantastic time as they mix up highballs and roll temaki for Memorial Day! Enjoy the sunshine, great tunes, and refreshing drinks with a cooler filled with sake cups, wine, and beer. Everyone is welcome, and no reservations are needed. So gather your friends and come on over to celebrate the holiday in style on their lively patio party!
For more events head to our Events Calendar here.