If you’re a fan of film and music, then this really is the weekend for you! Action!
This weekend gives you multiple opportunities to listen to the best of local talent (One Longfellow Square, The Thirsty Pig, Maine Craft Distilling, and just about anywhere else), as well as opportunities to celebrate the many works of Portland’s most influential film directors. And if that wasn’t enough to excite you, the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine celebrates the busiest of bees and RiRa gives you and your pup a chance to unleash for Yappy Hour! Check it out!
Here’s The Weekend Guide for Friday, August 18th – Sunday, August 20th 2023
Friday the 18th
Mr Sun | One Longfellow Square | 7:00 PM
Prepare to be amazed this Friday by the harmonious magic of Mr. Sun, a supergroup that brings together the talents of four extraordinary musicians from the American roots scene. If the names Darol Anger, Joe K. Walsh, Grant Gordy, and Aidan O’Donnell don’t ring a bell, their remarkable contributions certainly will. Renowned fiddler Darol Anger, with his extensive solo work and collaborations, Joe K. Walsh, the exceptional mandolin virtuoso and songwriter, Grant Gordy, the guitar genius who’s shared the stage with David Grisman, and the phenomenal Scots bassist Aidan O’Donnell, known for supporting jazz legends and modern maestros, all unite to create the cheerfully named supergroup that is Mr. Sun. Tickets.
All Inclusive Beer, Wine, and Oyster Cruise | Fogg’s Water Taxi & Charters | 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Repeats Saturday)
Embark on a picturesque voyage through Portland Harbor with Fogg’s Water Taxi & Charters! This journey offers scenic views of the stunning lighthouses, serene islands, and captivating marine life of Casco Bay. Aboard the Joseph S. Kennedy, indulge in the finest locally harvested oysters, complemented by the exquisite flavors of Maine’s top-notch beer and wine selections. It’s a harmonious blend of sightseeing and savoring, creating an unforgettable maritime experience. Tickets.
Yappy Hour at RiRa | Ri Ra Irish Pub | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Unleash the fun at Yappy Hour this month at RiRa, happening Monday to Friday between 4-6pm! Bring your furry friend to their patio, order a refreshing Guinness, and watch their adorable face appear on the foam top. Not only will you enjoy great times with your pup, but $1 from every Guinness will also be given to the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, contributing to a great cause while raising your spirits.
Circus Mutt in Portland | The Thirsty Pig | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Emerging from the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville, NC, Circus Mutt, born in 2010, embodies an eclectic fusion of musical styles, seamlessly blending rock-n-roll, jazz, and bluegrass into their sonic tapestry. Honing their craft on the relentless road, the band traversed the nation tirelessly between 2011 and 2016, gracing breweries, festivals, bars, and endless highways. Exuding a gentlemanly charm akin to their canine namesake, Circus Mutt promises an infectious, tail-waggin’ good time, inviting all to revel in their spirited musical circus.
John & Francis Ford Film Festival – Opening Night | State Theatre | 6:00 PM
Be part of the excitement on the opening night of the John and Francis Ford Film Festival, presented by Maine Irish Heritage Center, a tribute to the influential brothers from Portland who left an indelible mark on the early film industry. Join at the State Theatre for an engaging evening: Commence with an Opening Reception, setting the stage for the cinematic journey; Embrace the welcome remarks by Dan Ford and Joseph McBride, providing insights into the legacy of the Ford brothers; Witness the awarding of the MFA/PMA Silent Film Contest winner, acknowledging exceptional talent; Experience the premiere of the newly restored “When The Tables Turned” (1911), starring Francis Ford, with an introduction by Kathryn Fuller-Seeley; and Immerse yourself in “Wagon Master” (1950), directed by John Ford and featuring Ben Johnson, Harry Carey, Jr., and Ward Bond. Tickets.
Saturday the 19th
2023 Flotilla to Fight Cancer Benefit Concert | Casco Bay off Cow Island | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
The Flotilla to Fight Cancer is an amazing event that combines live music, the sea, and a chance to make a difference in Mainer’s lives. Join Don Campbell on Saturday August 19th 1pm for his on-the-water benefit concert – an afternoon on the sea with great live music while supporting a great cause. Promising to be an unforgettable experience on the water with family and friends, you need a boat to see it or hitch a ride with Foggs Water Taxi & Charters. Not only will you enjoy a delightful experience, but also contribute to a crucial cause – 50% of ticket proceeds will be dedicated to supporting the vital mission of the Maine Cancer Foundation. Tickets for Fogg’s.
World Honeybee Day | The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Celebrate the vital role of bees in food production on World Honeybee Day! Bees play a crucial part by pollinating flowers, aiding in the growth of fruits and vegetables that sustain us. The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine are dedicating a full day of activities to honor these hardworking pollinators: Craft your own honeybee during thier open MakerSpace session, using recycled materials; Let your creativity flow as you design unique pollinators, whether fluffy, fast, or funny; Dive into the science of honeybees through interactive games, exploring their communication through dancing. Join for a day of discovery, appreciation, and fun! Admission includes access to all World Honeybee Day programs. Tickets.
Live Music with George Brown & The Soul Lifters | Maine Craft Distilling | :00 PM
Ready yourself for a fantastic evening! Join Maine Craft Distilling for a night filled with live music and great vibes! George Brown, a talented singer-songwriter, and the Soul Lifters are set to perform from 7 PM – 9 PM. With an excellent selection of drinks and captivating tunes, this is an event you definitely want to be a part of. Don’t miss out!
ENCOUNTERS | VIVA The Sensation | Maine Studio Works | 7:00 PM + 9:00 PM
Experience the sensational world of Viva, an extraordinary artist who’s a singer, actor, model, bandleader, dancer, activist, and producer all rolled into one. With electrifying and unpredictable performances, Viva is an Afrofuturist sensation that defies conventions. At Encounters (Portland’s pop up interactive immersive art experience happening in the East Bayside neighborhood) VIVA taps into the cosmic, interpreting possible messages from beyond Vega’s star system through pulsating electronica beats and a mesmerizing vision of a brighter future. Prepare for an unforgettable live show as The Sensation takes the stage, backed by dancers and fueled by thumping EDM covers and original hits from her upcoming album “Hot GLAMN.” Tickets.
FREE Outdoor Screening of ‘The Quiet Man’ | Monument Square | 8:00 PM
Experience the magic of John Ford’s “The Quiet Man”, a romantic comedy, under the open sky at the Maine Irish Heritage Center’s’ John and Francis Ford Film Festival. Join for a FREE screening of this timeless film in Monument Square, where the heartwarming story comes to life against the backdrop of historic architecture. Follow the journey of a retired American boxer who revisits his Irish birthplace in the 1920s, only to fall for a spirited redhead whose brother objects to their union. This Oscar-winning masterpiece, with John Ford earning his record fourth Best Director award and capturing Best Cinematography, promises an enchanting evening of cinema and community.
Sunday the 20th
Hooping Class with Phoebe Flows | Three of Strong Spirits | 7:00 PM
Find your inner dancer with an instructional hoop class led by the captivating burlesque icon, Phoebe Flows. Discover the art of flow as you twirl and whirl with hula hoops under the open sky. Learn the mesmerizing techniques of hoop dance while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Three of Strong Spirits. After the class, cool down and socialize with fellow participants while enjoying a refreshing $2 off your drink tab. Don’t miss this chance to connect with your inner rhythm and experience the magic of hoop dancing with a touch of burlesque flair. Sign-Up.
Groove: Hip-Hop at Industrial Way | Austin Street Brewery| 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Hi Barbies and Kens!Get ready to groove with Barbie vibes at Groove 207’s themed hip-hop class at Austin Street Brewery! Channel your inner dancer as Groove 207 leads you through a beginner-level choreography to a playlist inspired by Barbie movies. After the class, hang out and enjoy a refreshing beverage from Austin Street Brewery (one included in the ticket price). If the weather is nice, you’ll dance outdoors. Don’t miss the chance to move and groove with fellow Barbie fans. And remember, pink attire is a must to complete the Barbie experience! Sign-up.
For more events head to our Events Calendar here.