A weekend filled with heart-throbbing fun! Portland’s got a game plan for every enthusiast this weekend!
Love is in the air as Valentine’s Day approaches, and Portland is painting the town red with romantic special events. But hold onto your helmets, sports fans, because Super Bowl Sunday is also on the horizon, promising touchdown-worthy action at local hotspots. And if you’re ready to let the good times roll, Mardi Gras celebrations will sweep you off your feet. The ultimate lineup of events, where love, touchdowns, and beads collide.
Here’s The Weekend Guide for Friday, February 9th – Sunday, February 11th 2024
Friday the 9th
Mardi Gras Party | Maine Craft Distilling | 6:00 PM
Get ready to let the good times roll at the Mardi Gras bash of the year! The venue will come alive with the soul-stirring sounds of Glen David Andrews. Hailing from New Orleans’ historic Treme neighborhood, he’s a native son and an iconic voice of the city’s music scene. His powerful trombone and commanding vocals will transport you straight to the heart of the Crescent City. Alongside Glen, Soggy Po Boys will be bringing their infectious rhythms and toe-tapping tunes to the stage. These New Englanders are on a mission to spread the gospel of New Orleans music wherever they go. And if that’s not enough, The Nightshades, a Portland-based quartet, will keep the party going with their New Orleans funk and soul. It’s a night of music, food, and the true spirit of Mardi Gras! Tickets.
International Open Mic Valentine Extravaganza | Mayo Street Arts | 7:00 PM – 9:15 PM
Get ready for a cultural celebration at Portland’s renowned International Open Mic Night! Hosted by Mayo Street Arts, this event promises an eclectic showcase of songs, poetry, and artistic expressions from both local and international talents who proudly call Greater Portland their home. As one of the most linguistically diverse regions in the U.S., Greater Portland’s international community takes center stage, offering a delightful evening filled with both traditional and cutting-edge performances. From seasoned artists to emerging talents, this special event will even feature open mic slots for those looking to share their creativity. Tickets.
Charity Comedy Night | Rising Tide Brewing | 5:30 PM
A night of side-splitting laughter and philanthropy at Charity Comedy Night, hosted by Rising Tide Brewing to benefit Portland Trails! Rising Tide Brewing partnered with Portland Trails to support their mission of creating a healthier and more interconnected community through a sprawling 70+ mile trail network. Prepare to be entertained by a lineup of top-tier local comedians who will have you in stitches. Kick back, savor a pint of craft beer from Rising Tide Brewing Company, and let the laughter flow. Comedians are seasoned pros, and your lineup for the night includes Host, Mark Moccia and Headliner, Bryan Muenzer – known for his quick-witted one-liners, Bryan’s humor is a delightful blend of tall tales and awkward moments – and more! Tickets.
Heather Pierson Mardi Gras Band Show | One Longfellow Square | 8:00 PM
One Longfellow Square is bringing the vibrant spirit of New Orleans to Portland, Maine with the Heather Pierson Band. Playing traditional jazz, NOLA-inspired originals, and Mardi Gras favorites, get ready to don your beads and laissez les bons temps rouler (let the good times roll). The high-energy night features: Heather Pierson on Piano and Vocals; Shawn Nadeau on Bass; Davy Sturtevant on Cornet and Guitar; Craig Bryan on Drums; Mike Sakash on Reeds (from the PJO); and George Wiese on Trombone. Tickets.
NOW That’s What I Call A 90s Dance Party | Three of Strong Spirits | 6:30 PM
Party like it’s the 90s all over again! Join Three of Strong Spirits for their 2nd Annual 90s Dance Party! Mosart212 will be spinning all your favorite 90s tunes from 7 PM – 10 PM. Sip on one-night-only 90s themed cocktails. Munch on delicious 90s snacks (Dunkaroos, anyone?) Don’t forget to dress up in your best 90s outfit for a chance to win a prize! It’s going to be all that and a bag of chips.
Saturday the 10th
Love is Brewing Mini Market | Belleflower Brewery | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Love is Brewing at Belleflower Brewing Co. this weekend! Celebrate love in style at Belleflower’s 3rd Annual Mini Makers Market. Get ready to mark your calendars for a day of artisanal treasures and delicious treats. Featuring talented local makers like Ceramica Co., Sari Rae, C. Rose Wellness, Fresh Glow Candle Co., and Burley Boards, this event promises unique finds for your special someone. And, to make your day even sweeter, Meet on the Street food truck will be serving up delectable delights for you and your loved ones.
Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour | State Theatre | 7:00 PM (Also Happening Friday)
An exhilarating cinematic journey at the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival! Since 1976, this festival has been the ultimate celebration of Mountain Culture, and now it’s coming to a theatre near you. Discover breathtaking mountain experiences, inspiring ideas, and incredible visions from around the world through a curated lineup of 37 films. Featuring captivating stories from Canada, the USA, Switzerland, France, Sweden, and beyond, this festival is your ticket to adventure. Two incredible evenings, each with a unique selection of films, promise to transport you to the heart of the mountains. Tickets.
Portland On Tap | Cross Insurance Arena | 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM , 5:00 PM
A beer lover’s paradise! With over 100 hand-selected craft beer styles from 50+ breweries, this festival is a hoppy heaven. Portland on Tap has scoured the nation to bring you the finest suds from local brewers and craft beer legends. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a great time, join at the Cross Insurance Arena for a day filled with hops and happiness. Sip and savor to your heart’s content. Live music, games, and delicious food complete the experience. Tickets.
The Lonely Hearts Disco | Definitive Brewing Co. | 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Valentine’s Day rebel, it’s time to break the mold and celebrate your way this February! Definitive Brewing Co. is throwing the ultimate Anti-Valentine’s Day bash, an evening of dancing, disco, oyster shucking, snacking, and beer, where societal norms go out the window. Singles, couples, and everyone in between, you’re all invited to this no-holds-barred celebration. Got a third wheel in your life? Bring them along! Couples looking to mingle? You’re welcome too! And if you’ve been hiding your real crush, this event is your chance to shine. Enjoy a fantastic lineup of beers, including the Red Velvet Whoopie Pie Sour and Robin Imperial Stout, perfect for the occasion. Lady Shuckers will be on hand with oysters and shucking lessons, and Fat Kid Culinary Productions will offer up a delectable menu. DJ Diego will keep the vibe alive with music that’ll have you dancing all night long. Tickets.
Palm to Sun Permanent Jewelry Pop-up | Terrarium | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Kickstart your Valentine’s week with a touch of enchantment at Terrarium! Palm to Sun is hosting a dazzling jewelry pop-up that’s sure to leave you spellbound. This is your golden ticket to snag some exquisite jewelry, with custom sizing, heavenly designs, and celestial charm, these accessories are truly one-of-a-kind. It’s a first-come, first-serve affair, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to adorn yourself with these extraordinary gems.
Sunday the 11th
All Day Super Bowl Party | Dock Fore | All Day – Open at 9:00 AM
Score big at Dock Fore! Start the day with Arsenal Premier League soccer and $3.95 mimosas until 7:00 PM. Dock Fore team has breakfast pizza, PGA action, and the Celtics at 2:00 PM to keep you entertained. Their menu is loaded with regular and special delights from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and don’t miss out on $1.95 pints from 3:00 to 7:00 PM. As the evening kicks off for the big game, enjoy 20oz High Life or PBR for just $3.25 until close. It’s the ultimate Super Bowl Sunday celebration.
Beginner Hip-Hop Choreo with Groove 207 | Body Positive | 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Get ready to groove with Groove207! Coinciding with Super Bowl Sunday, Groove207 has got a dance class that’ll make you feel like you’re performing at halftime with none other than USHER himself! They’ll kick things off with an energizing warm-up that’ll get your heart pumping, followed by learning a beginner-friendly hip-hop routine set to Usher’s hit song ‘Caught Up.’ By the end of the class, you’ll be rocking a new dance routine, ready to show off your moves when Usher hits the stage at halftime, or anytime you want to impress! Sign-Up.
Fall in love with Portland on a Culinary Experience with Maine Day Ventures | Multiple Stops | 10:30 AM (Multiple Dates – Ends the 18th)
All you need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt! Join Maine Day Ventures for a special culinary experience this Valentine’s Day as they will take you across the Old Port in this leisurely-paced, yet incredibly lively, foodie walking tour. Educating you on local food, drink and history, on this tour you’ll sample all sorts of original creations with a Valentine’s Day theme throughout. This may include fresh haddock tacos and local ale, piping hot clam chowders with sparkling pink mocktails, plus classic Maine lobster rolls with choice of beverages and a big, strawberry freshly dipped in chocolate. Finish with a chocolate tasting and a special, Valentine’s gift set of dark chocolate truffles to enjoy later! Tickets.
The Rock and Roll Playhouse Plays Music of The Beatles for Kids + More | PHOME | 12:00 PM
The Rock and Roll Playhouse is back with a family concert featuring the music of The Beatles and more! This fun-filled event, hosted at iconic music venues around the country, offers kids the chance to move, play, sing, and groove to classic rock tunes. It’s a fantastic opportunity for families with children aged ten and under to enjoy games, stories, and rock ‘n’ roll. While it’s an early introduction to live music, it’s sure to spark a lifelong love for rock. Come join for a rockin’ good time and introduce your little ones to the magic of live music! Tickets.
For more events head to our Events Calendar here.