Do you hear that Portlanders? Oh, no? Well, it sounds like the weekend is calling! And while it looks like the spring is riding strong on that ole’ ‘April showers’ adage, that doesn’t mean you should let a little rain, well…rain on your parade!
This weekend, a multi-genre rockstar sensation will hit the stage at Mayo Street Arts, the season of Saison begins at Oxbow Blending & Bottling, hilarious comedians will tickle your funny bone at Banded Brewing Co., and all the single ladies of THEM Burlesque will debut their flawless energy at Empire Live!
Here’s the Weekend Guide for Friday, April 28th – Sunday, April 30th, 2023
Friday the 28th
Opening Day | Portland Lobster Co. | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
The Portland Lobster Co. team has been working hard, rain or shine, swabbing the deck for Opening Day! The beloved waterfront bar and restaurant is excited to be back. Kickoff the 2023 season with a lobster dinner, steamers, fried clams and chowder, salads and wraps, appetizers, and local desserts! Stop by their outdoor tented bar for an ice-cold locally brewed beer or a glass of fine wine which you can enjoy at their sit-down bar or on their lengthy dock overlooking the gorgeous Portland Harbor. Ryan Halliburton will be playing live from 3 PM – 6 PM.
Perpetual Groove | Portland House of Music | 7:30 PM
Perpetual Groove continues to create a cultivated, unique experience for each live show. This is a band that is fully realized and ready to bring their new sound, storytelling, and live experience to the masses. In their newest album, the American rock band recruited producers Jason Kingsland and Tim Friesen to help them accomplish the most engaging and sonically-gratifying Perpetual Groove album to date – one that will define the band for years to come. Seven new songs represent all that life brings—loss, redemption, and hope. Tickets.
Thabisa | Folk & Afro-Beat Fusion | Mayo Street Arts | 7:30 PM
Thabisa fuses world music with folk, jazz, soul, R&B, and Afro-Pop to create an atomic blend of colorful sounds of joy, hope, and longing. A South African native now residing in New Haven, Connecticut, Thabisa is a dynamic singer/songwriter who rocks the stage with every performance. Her sultry sound spans from raspy transitions as though delivered by Janis Joplin to hip-like chops as if Erykah Badu was her conductor on stage to a smooth operator like Sade while always connecting back to her roots by channeling Miriam Makeba aka Mama Africa. Thabisa will perform in Xhosa and English. Tickets.
Maine Comic & Toy Con | Cross Insurance Arena | All Weekend
Join for three days of celebrity guests, artists, games, pop culture and more! Maine’s premiere pop culture and comic book event. Maine Comic and Toy Con features cosplay, costume contests, video games, celebrity guests, autographs, photo opportunities, guest panels, VIP Experiences, and vendors of toys, comic books, art and other pop culture items!
Broadway National Tour | Fiddler on the Roof | Merrill Auditorium | 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Rich with musical hits you know and love, including “Tradition,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” and “If I Were A Rich Man,” Fiddler on the Rofo is the heartwarming story of fathers and daughters, husbands and wives, and life, love and laughter. Featuring a talented cast, lavish orchestra and stunning movement and dance from Israeli choreographer Hofesh Shechter, based on the original staging by Jerome Robbins, Fiddler on the Roof will introduce a new generation to the uplifting celebration that raises its cup to joy! Tickets.
Hello Newman | Gritty McDuff’s | 9:30 PM
If you’re looking for a band that can bring the house down and get everyone on their feet, then look no further than Hello Newman. This Maine-based alternative rock band has been making waves all over New England with their killer performances and extensive repertoire of 90s and 00s classics. Whether you’re a fan of alternative rock, ska, rap, or swing, this band has got you covered. The iconic Portland bar known for its delicious brews and lively atmosphere will be hosting Hello Newman for a night of non-stop dancing and good times.
Saturday the 29th
Yoga in the Park | Edward Payson Park | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Yoga in the park with Ashley Flowers Yoga offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and your inner self. You can enjoy the benefits of movement, breath, and intention while surrounded by fresh air and natural beauty. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, all are welcome to join. Come feel your feet on the earth, reach your hands to the sky, and let your soul expand in the great outdoors. Pre-registration is recommended. In case of inclement weather, classes may be canceled, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. Reserve.
Saison Day 2023 | Oxbow Blending & Bottling | 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Get ready to raise a glass and say “Cheers!” because Saison Day is back! Oxbow will be joining beer lovers all over the country to celebrate this delicious style of beer. With friends and fellow beer enthusiasts by their side, they’ll be clinking glasses and enjoying the unique flavors of Saison. And if that’s not enough, they’ll also have the awesome sounds of Kafari to keep the party going from 2:30 – 6:30 PM.
Reed Foehl w/ Travis Cyr | One Longfellow Square | 8:00 PM
Grammy-nominated songwriter Reed Foehl was raised in a small New England town whose folk/Americana music tells stories with a voice that pushes boundaries while paying homage to tradition. From traditional folk ballads to barroom sing-alongs, this tunesmith’s has dedicated his life to songwriting and music. Foehl’s five studio albums have put him on the map of the publishing world, garnering placements in both film and television, most notably the feature film “Just Friends” and the popular vampire series “The Originals.” Ticket.
Ask Me Anything Event-Canine Behavior, Nutrition, & Training | Fish & Bone | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Join Stephanie R. Smith, M.Ed, CCDT, CPCN, CHES and founder of Sacred Paws as she will be giving away free canine tips as well as raffling off a $100 gift certificate to any of her services with qualified purchase of $20 or more at Fish & Bone. Stephanie offers heart centered holistic canine behavioral support, training, and nutrition counseling.
Half-O-ween | The Jewel Box | 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM
For all those ghouls and goblins that love Halloween and are spooked at the thought of another 6 months without it, The Jewel Box has the perfect event this weekend! Celebrating the Halloween halfway point, A.K.A. Half-O-Ween, this is an excuse to wear a costume and raise money for a good cause. Features music from DJ Benjamin Spalding and co-host Milly Taylor.
Comedy Night | Banded Brewing Co. | 7:00 PM
In need of a night of laughter and good times? Look no further than the Banded Comedy Night, brought to you by Portland Comedy Coop! Come on down, grab a cold beer, and let these hilarious comedians tickle your funny bone until you’re laughing your a@@ off. It’s the perfect way to unwind, relax, and forget all your troubles for a few hours. Doors open at 6:30 PM, and tickets are just $10 at the door.
THEM Burlesque presents DIVA’S NIGHT: A Tribute Show Ring The Alarm! | Empire Live! | 8:00 PM
It’s Renaissance season! THEM Burlesque presents Diva’s Night Tribute – BEYONCÉ! This premier event features a host of show-stopping performers that will bring Flawless ENERGY to the stage with some of Beyoncé’s greatest hits. Put on your Freakum Dress and come celebrate this Pop/R&B icon at Empire Live! Enjoy dinner and drinks while we entertain, delight, and enthrall you. Hosted by Clamz! Kasino Tickets.
Sunday the 30th
Jimmy Drinks World | MAPS | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
SURPRISE! The Jimmy Drinks World team absolutely couldn’t wait to pop up with their friends at MAPS so they are bringing you the very first ALL VINYL JIMMY. DOUBLE SURPRISE their buds at Go Vintage And Vinyl said they’d pop up and sell some records! Get ready to listen to some truly fantastic records and drink some boilermakers with the crew.
Elements: Palaver Strings with Kinan Azmeh and Brian Shankar Adler | SPACE Gallery | 8:00 PM
Palaver Strings is joined by award-winning clarinetist Kinan Azmeh and percussionist Brian Adler for Elements— a very special program exploring the fluid space between improvisation and composition, drawing on classical, jazz, and Syrian folk elements. The program features original compositions by the guest soloists, including a world premiere of Kinan Azmeh’s Syrian Dances for String Orchestra. Tickets.
Friends of Congress Square Park Season Kickoff and Fundraiser | Congress Square Park | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Join Friends of Congress Square Park as they celebrate the start of their 2023 In the Square season of programming! Ideal Maine Marching Band will bring the musical vibes, and they’ll also have sweet and savory baked treats available for purchase from Mellifluous Portland and Plot Twist Pretzels. Plus, some games out to play, so bring your friends. In addition, all day long at Friends & Family, right next door, you can support their season by enjoying some snacks or beverages. F&F will be donating 10% of all sales to FoCSP, as well as ALL proceeds of a special drink. Plus, they’ll have a great little raffle going too!
Wax Trax Sunday | Portland Zoo | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Join DJs Mike Davies and 8BallPosse as they jam the tastiest tunes on vinyl for all the animals at Portland Zoo. Come drink a Coors Banquet and boogie!
For more events head to our Events Calendar here.
