Monkey see, monkey do! Just like the temperatures this week, this weekend’s events are heating up the summer! And while the forecast is all over the place (what is going on?? Keith Carson, any answers??), we say just get out and GO! Pack for rain, pack for sun, just enjoy whatever may come.
This weekend, Citrus is quenching your thirst for juice, First Friday Art Walk is setting the stage for summer, Portland Zoo is putting a little boogie into Sunday afternoon, and The Bar + Bites is giving us one dance with Toronto’s most famed rapper.
Here’s The Weekend Guide for Friday, July 7th – Sunday, July 9th 2023
Friday the 7th
Juiced w/ Discodungeon & Red Tide featuring Double Dessert | Citrus | 9:00 PM
Get ready for Juiced at Citrus, the hottest queer party in town! Join Citrus on the first Friday of every month for a night of non-stop dancing and good vibes. This month, they are thrilled to have Discodungeon, DJ Red Tide and Double Dessert spinning the best tunes to keep you grooving all night long. With a rotating lineup of talented DJs and performers, Juiced is the place to be for an unforgettable night out. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time attendee, the energy and inclusivity of this event will make you feel right at home. Expect a diverse crowd, killer beats, and a whole lot of fun.
Summer Stage | Monument Square | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Groove to the sounds of Maine’s finest musicians as SPACE and Creative Portland team up for the Summer Stage Series! Kicking off on July 7th during the First Friday Art Walk, Monument Square will come alive with the electric performances of Windier, Gum Parker, Little Oso, and KevCoast. This free outdoor concert series, presented in collaboration with the City of Portland, is a celebration of local talent and a testament to the vibrant music scene in Maine. All ages are welcome to join in the fun and enjoy the incredible live performances.
The Midnight Riders: Alt Country Roots Music | The Thirsty Pig | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Saddle up for a wild ride with The Midnight Riders at The Thirsty Pig! This talented band will be bringing you a repertoire of songs that celebrate the spirit of outlaws, Waldo County girls, Lobsterbillys, moonshine, and mushrooms. Their unique blend of music will have you dancing, singing along, and feeling the groove. An unforgettable evening of toe-tapping tunes and good times.
Find Waldo in Downtown Portland | Portland Downtown | All Month
Where’s Waldo? In downtown Portland, of course! The famous children’s book character in the striped shirt is hanging around Portland again this year! He’ll be joining Tree House Toys and other local downtown businesses for some hide-and-seek fun this July. Playing is easy! And free! Waldo figures will be hidden in local establishments around Portland’s downtown. Participants are close enough to one another that you can walk or ride your bike. Come by Tree House Toys store to grab a “Find Waldo Local” passport, and then visit the participating businesses to find Waldo! When you find him, get your passport stamped/signed at each stop. Don’t want to start searching at Treehouse Toys? No problem! You can pick up a passport at any of the Find Waldo Downtown locations. Plus -there are prizes!
Alive in the Root | Maine Craft Distilling | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Join Maine Craft Distilling for a delightful summer evening filled with laughter and mischief! Alive in the Root invites you to experience their unique blend of original, multi-instrumental acoustic roots music. With a touch of poetry and harmonious melodies, they’ll transport you to a world of musical enchantment. This talented band will serenade you with their heartfelt performances, showcasing their mastery of various instruments and captivating songwriting.
Saturday the 8th
Maine Cosplay Extravaganza | Thompson’s Point | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Repeats July 9th)
Unleash your inner superhero at the ultimate cosplay convention in Portland! Brick South on Thompson’s Point will be transformed into a haven for comic and video game enthusiasts Join iconic characters like The Avengers, Wonder Woman, Deadpool, Spiderman, Batman, Batgirl, and many more for a family-friendly and affordable event. Cosplay Extravaganza is all about self-expression and tapping into your inner superhero. Immerse yourself in the incredible world of cosplay, where creativity knows no bounds. The event will feature show cars, a costume contest for all attendees, live music, tantalizing food trucks, and opportunities to connect with local charitable organizations. Tickets.
Old Port Walk, Talk and Taste with Maine Brews Cruise | Shipyard Brewing Co. | 11:30 AM + 2:45 PM (Repeats daily except Wednesday)
Embark on a fascinating journey through Portland’s rich history and brewing heritage with Maine Brews Cruise! Join on this leisurely walking tour as they explore notable landmarks that shaped the city’s past, including former brewery sites, iconic buildings like the U.S. Custom House and Mariners’ Church, and the bustling working waterfront that played a vital role in the import and export of goods, including alcohol during prohibition. But this isn’t just a history lesson – you’ll also indulge in the incredible craft beverages that have made Portland’s breweries legendary. Tour includes stops at three renowned breweries: Shipyard Brewing Company, Gritty McDuff’s, and Liquid Riot Bottling Company. Guided by MBC’s knowledgeable and passionate guide, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Portland’s brewing heritage and the vibrant craft beer scene that continues to thrive today. Tickets.
Drake Night | THE Bar and Bites | 9:30 PM
Get ready to party like it’s Drake’s World at Maine’s biggest Drake celebration, DRAKE NIGHT! Hosted by Hot Radio Maine, DJ Ryan Deelon and DJ Jay-C will be spinning all your favorite Drake hits, from the iconic “Best I Ever Had” to the latest chart-toppers like “Search & Rescue.” This 21+ event is not to be missed, especially for all the Drake fans out there. Sip on Champagne Papi themed cocktails served in exclusive Drake Night OVO collectible cups that you get to keep as a memento of the night. To make the night even more thrilling, dress to impress in your best Drake or OVO-inspired attire. By attending Drake Night, you’ll be automatically entered into a raffle for the chance to win a pair of tickets to the hottest tour of the summer: Drake & 21 Savage’s It’s All A Blur Tour. The winning ticket will be drawn on site at 11:40PM, and you must be present to claim your prize.
Steely Dead – A Sonic Fusion of Steely Dan and Grateful Dead | Portland House of Music | 8:00 PM
Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Denver, Colorado, Steely Dead is a national touring band that has satisfied the curiosity of music lovers with their unique blend of Grateful Dead and Steely Dan. Steely Dead’s repertoire is a carefully crafted fusion of Grateful Dead and Steely Dan songs, between the arrangement and precision studio recordings of rock legends Steely Dan, cross-pollinated with the Grateful Dead’s free-flowing, melodic improvisation and masterful song segues. Steely Dead merges these major concepts together infusing the influence into each band, all the while creating an original jam element with the song segues. Steely Dead’s performances are a musical journey that takes audiences on a nostalgic trip through the golden era of rock and roll. Tickets.
Sunday the 9th
Yoga at the Fort with Portland Paddle | Fort Gorges | 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Explore and unwind with a unique adventure in Portland! Join Portland Paddle for a sea kayaking and yoga trip that combines the beauty of Casco Bay with the tranquility of yoga. Paddle to the historic Fort Gorges, accessible only by boat, and immerse yourself in its fascinating history. Enjoy a guided kayak tour and then step onto the fort’s parade grounds for a rejuvenating yoga class. Suitable for all ages and abilities, this trip offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Kayaking gear is provided, and please note that facilities are limited at the fort. Tickets.
Backyard Boogie Sundays | Portland Zoo | 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Get ready to boogie in Portland Zoo’s backyard oasis! Sundays in July, enjoy performances and DJ sets by local musicians. Drop in for weekly doses of electric vibes as they are pleased to bring you a reason to get weird on a week night. On deck this Sunday is Sun Yata, Fatty Shay and Cecil G. Portland Zoo opens at noon.
Sunday Jazz Session | Urban Farm Fermentory | 3:o0 PM – 5:00 PM
A soulful Sunday Jazz Session at Urban Farm Fermentory’s tasting room! Join for an open session filled with captivating melodies. If the weather permits, they will even move outdoors, providing a magical atmosphere under the canopy of trees. This event is open to all ages, so bring your loved ones along for a delightful afternoon of jazz music.
For more events head to our Events Calendar here.