Experience a weekend like no other! With a lineup this exciting, you’ll be saying, “Cheers to an unforgettable weekend!”
This weekend in Portland, you can paint the town in rainbow colors and raise a glass to Pride Portland!, gather with grape minds that drink alike with the return of the beloved Portland Wine Week, soak in the amazing views, brews and tunes at Summer Sunsets, and groove to the sounds of the 7os under the disco ball at the State Theatre.
Here’s The Weekend Guide for Friday, June 16th – Monday, June 19th, 2023
Friday the 16th
Summer Sunsets Live | Thompson’s Point | 4:00 PM – Sunset
Get ready for the event you’ve all been eagerly waiting for… It’s the monumental 5 Years of Summer Sunsets Live! The beloved summertime haven, Thompson’s Point, opens its gates for a season filled with icy local libations, breathtaking water views, the crème de la crème of Portland’s food trucks, live local music, and the epicenter of it all, The Depot Pavilion! Sip on the finest concoctions mixed by Three Of Strong Spirits; lose yourself in the mesmerizing ambiance as local musicians set the stage ablaze with their live performances; and indulge in mouthwatering bites from the city’s finest food trucks! Welcoming everyone with open arms, including your furry friends, for an evening packed with positive vibes.
Monumental Market | Monument Square | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Support local makers, find one-of-a-kind treasures, and engage with the creative spirit of your community at the Friday pop-up markets in Monument Square! Immerse yourself in a treasure trove of unique creations and support talented artisans. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, home decor, or simply want to connect with the talented individuals who bring these creations to life, these markets are not to be missed. Mark your calendars and join in on celebrating the artistry and craftsmanship of local makers throughout the summer season. Weather dependent.
Gimme Gimme Disco | State Theatre | 7:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Calling all Dancing Queens! Here we go again! If you can’t get enough ABBA then do we have a dance party for you. Gimme Gimme Disco is a DJ based dance party playing all your favorite ABBA hits, plus plenty of other disco hits from the 70s & 80’s like The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, and Cher. So honey honey, take-a-chance and you’ll be dancing all night long. Disco attire encouraged! Tickets.
Wine Tasting: Northern Italian Wines and Fortified Wine Lesson | ViA VECCHiA | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
As part of Portland Wine Week! Indulge in an evening of wine exploration and cocktail craftsmanship with ViA VECCHiA’s Sommelier Susannah Gleason and Beverage Director Mark Hibbard. Join for a delightful event as they delve into the world of exquisite wines from Northern Italy. Throughout the evening, Susannah and Mark will share their knowledge and expertise on the beautiful wines that this region has to offer. Learn about the rich history, traditions, and winemaking techniques that make Northern Italy’s wines so special. Gain insights into the terroir, grape varieties, and the stories behind these remarkable bottles. The event will culminate in a fortified wine-based cocktail workshop, where you’ll have the opportunity to put your newfound knowledge to practice. Reserve.
Matt Fraser – America’s Top Psychic Medium | Merrill Auditorium | 7:00 PM
Matt Fraser is America’s Top Psychic Medium, and star of the hit television series on E! Entertainment. His LIVE events, television appearances, and spiritual teachings have allowed him to bring healing, hope & laughter to a global audience of fans and followers from all around the world. From heartfelt emotional readings to stunning revelations, Matt Fraser has audiences on the edge of their seats with his outrageous personality and unique approach to mediumship. His readings lead guests through a rollercoaster of emotions from laughing to crying, turning skeptics into believers with stunning details. Matt’s uncanny abilities and extreme accuracy have allowed him to reach millions worldwide from A-list celebrities and influencers to everyday people looking to get in touch with those they have lost. Tickets.
Saturday the 17th
Pride Portland! Parade and Festival | Starts at Monument Square | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Get ready to wave your rainbow flags and put on your most fabulous outfits because Pride Portland! is here to paint the town with love, celebration, and acceptance! This annual extravaganza brings people together from all walks of life for a memorable parade and festival that will have you dancing, cheering, and feeling the vibrant energy of the LGBTQ+ community. Parade and festival celebrates and honors the accomplishments of the LGBTQ+ movement, raises awareness of the community’s ongoing struggles, and fosters an environment of inclusivity, accessibility, and solidarity. Parade starts at 1pm at Monument Square. Festival is from 1 PM – 5 PM in Deering Oaks Park.
Ales for Tails for ARLGP | Spring Point Ledge Light | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Calling all beer and dog lovers! Get ready for a tail-wagging good time at Ales for Tails, the annual dog-friendly beer festival hosted by the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland (ARLGP). An afternoon filled with Maine-brewed beers, delectable food trucks, and sunshine by the ocean, all in support of the ARLGP’s life-saving work for animals in need. The 2023 brewery lineup is impressive, featuring renowned names like Allagash Brewing Company, Après, Austin Street Brewery, Banded Brewing, Foundation Brewing Company, Goodfire Brewing Company, Portland Zoo, and Rising Tide Brewing Company and more. Sip on their delicious brews and discover new favorites while enjoying the coastal ambiance. To satisfy your hunger, they will have a fantastic lineup of food trucks including Mr. Tuna, Sook Thai Mobile Kitchen, and T.O.P. Dog. Feast on tasty treats that perfectly complement your beer choices. This event is 21+. Tickets.
Musonda | Citrus | 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Get ready to groove to the infectious beats of DJ Musonda, the Maine-based producer and DJ with a captivating story! Born in Zambia, raised in South Africa, and now making waves in the United States, DJ Musonda’s musical journey is one you don’t want to miss. DJ Musonda brings his vibrant energy and diverse cultural influences to the Maine music scene. With a seamless blend of beats and melodies, his performances ignite the dance floor, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Dance, let loose, and embrace the infectious Zambian and South African rhythms of DJ Musonda.
Weeklong: Merroir & Terroir | Union – The Press Hotel | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
As part of Portland Wine Week! Indulge in the exquisite harmony of Merroir and Terroir at Union in The Press Hotel! An unique experience where the natural essence of oysters, known as Merroir, meets the familiar concept of Terroir, The Press Hotel is excited to present a selection of wines from Louise Chereau, a 25-year-old winemaker from the esteemed Chereau Carré, renowned for their Muscadet wines. Savor the nuances of each Muscadet expression, be it sparkling, still, or from a single vineyard. These wines will be thoughtfully paired side-by-side with delicately selected oysters, creating a flight of flavors. Let the flavors transport you on a sensory journey that celebrates the best of wine and food.
The Big Gay Dance Party | The Porthole | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The Saturday night party during Pride Portland weekend! Equality Community Center is shutting down The Porthole for The Big GAY Dance Party! Have no doubt this will be the party of the year for the entire community featuring three DJs (Party with DJ Jodi, DJ XO and internationally renowned DJ Robbie Leslie of Studio 54 fame!), go-go dancers from Kinky Slippers Burlesque, drag performances (Starring: Arabella the Goddess and Finn Gerring), VIP party boat, and the return of the Ferry Queens (for those whom may remember the days of the Pier Dance)! All proceeds will support ECC’s capital campaign to build an affordable housing complex for LGBTQ+ and allied older adults. Tickets.
Maine Dead Project’s Summer Residency Kickoff | Portland House of Music and Events | 7:30 PM
Groove to the iconic sounds of the Grateful Dead as the Maine Dead Project kicks off their Summer Residency with a bang! This talented band is ready to take you on a musical journey by recreating a legendary Grateful Dead show in its entirety. The anticipation is building as they carefully select which show to bring to life. Transporting you back to the heyday of the Grateful Dead’s live performances, get ready to dance, sing along, and experience the magic of this legendary band. Tickets.
Sunday the 18th
Mana Mana ’23 | Peaks Island Lions Club | 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Calling all honorary Muppets, fun lovers, music and art lovers, FAMILIES; dads, moms, kids, and those without; all supporters of the Peaks Island community; and Portland workers at large. This is YOUR day to celebrate all things Maine. A music and art celebration presented by The Thirsty Pig, Mana Mana is an ode to everything Maine. Taking place out on Peaks Island, featured events include a rock star line-up of musicians including The Mallett Brothers Band, Yellow Sun Wreckers, Bradley Copper Kettle and Friends, Steadman’s Landing, Oystah Guy, and more, in addition to killer eats, 2 special brews (including the Manamana Session IPA), and a disc golf pop-up provided by Joyswich Dischouse. This is a rain or shine event. Tickets.
Salty Air Bakes Pop-Up | Buzz Coffee | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Join Buzz Coffee for a special pop-up event as Salty Air Bakes takes over! Get ready to indulge in an array of delectable treats, from sweets to granola, and even some mouthwatering baked goods. And of course, they’ll have plenty of delicious coffee to satisfy your caffeine cravings.This event is the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of summer, so gather your friends and family and join for a delightful experience. Treat your dad to a special Father’s Day surprise or simply come by to enjoy some fantastic coffee and scrumptious snacks.
Portland Poets Society Reading | Eastern Promenade | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Get ready for an enchanting afternoon as Portland Poets Society returns with thier beloved monthly summer reading series, Poetry on the Prom! This is where it all began, and they couldn’t be more excited to gather again for an afternoon filled with poetry, passion, and open mic magic. Whether you’re an experienced poet or just starting your journey with words, PPS welcomes all voices. Step up to the mic and let your creativity shine as you share your thoughts, emotions, and stories through the power of poetry. Be sure to arrive early to secure your spot on the open mic list, as it opens promptly at 3:15. It’s a first-come, first-serve opportunity to share your poetic creations with a supportive and appreciative audience. Weather dependent.
Monday the 19th – Juneteenth
State of Black Maine Symposium | Hannaford Hall – USM | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Join Maine Black Community Development for the first annual State of Black Maine Symposium at USM. The day will feature musical performances by local Black artists; panel discussions between Black elders on their experiences growing up in Maine, and youth leaders on their experiences today; delicious food prepared by Black-owned businesses; and sessions on the state of Black industry, education, justice and the arts. The State of Black Maine Symposium aims to create and sustain a public platform to amplify Black Maine voices, unify across difference, build solidarity, foster collaboration, hold space for creative expression, and inspire bold collective visioning. Register.
For more events head to our Events Calendar here.