If you’re in the mood for live music, drinking beer, art gazing, or a chef-off, check out our guide for what to do this weekend in Portland.
Thursday, April 23
We love a good party, especially when it’s celebrating one of our favorite happy hour spots, Little Tap House. It’s hard to believe this popular joint has only been with us for two years. To mark the occasion, they will be serving up a collaboration blend with Barreled Souls: 20% Munro, a strong Scotch Ale, 30% Big Bang, an American Barley Wine, and 50% Dark Matter, a roasty and rich Black Ale. There will also be a special evening pairing menu. The festivities kick off at 6 p.m.
Friday, April 24
It’s still another two weeks until the next First Friday, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get your art on. Why not swing by the Portland Public Library and take in their current exhibit, Bound Together II: USM Book Arts? While the use of ebooks and audiobooks may be on the rise, there’s something about holding a unique hand-bound book in your hands, don’t you think? If you want to make it a night of art appreciation, the Portland Museum of Art is always free on Fridays from 5-9 p.m.
Saturday, April 25
It’s a good night for music in the Old Port on Saturday. Howie Day will be headlining at The Asylum, The Mallett Brothers Band will be playing at Port City Music Hall, and legendary singer/songwriter Judy Collins will join the Portland Symphony Orchestra for its final Pops! concerts of the season at Merrill Auditorium on Saturday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 26, at 2:30 p.m.
Grace | photo by Grace
Sunday, April 26
All you foodie types better snag your ticket to the Chopped Challenge ASAP, because this will sell out. Cooking Matters Maine is partnering with Grace Restaurant to “create an evening full of excitement and culinary drama,” and who doesn’t love a little culinary drama, amirite? This year’s talented competitors include Chef Justin Walker (Earth at Hidden Pond), Chef David Levi (Vinland), Chef Adam Flood (Grace), and Chef Emil Rivera (Sur Lie). Tickets are $50 and benefit Cooking Matters Maine, a program which empowers low-income families with the knowledge and skills to prepare healthy, delicious meals at home on a tight budget. The kitchen smack down begins at 5 p.m. You can also order specialty drinks mixed by bartenders from Bramhall, Sur Lie, Portland Hunt and Alpine Club, and Grace at the cash bar.