If you can believe it or not, we’ve blown through June and are looking at the July 4th weekend. And while everyone’s a bit unsure on what days to take off and if Monday is worth using up a vacation day, one thing we can be sure of is that events this holiday weekend are lining up in our favor. Now if only we could get the rain to cooperate…
This week, cruise the coast while the weather is good with Rocky Bottom, get not bored with boards and the City of Portland, get caught in Charlotte’s Web with the Children’s Museum and send June out with a bang with The Danforth.
Here’s The Weekend Guide for Friday, June 30th – Sunday, July 2nd 2023
Looking for information regarding 4th of July fireworks in Portland, Maine? We have you covered!
Friday the 30th
Sunset Cruise | Rocky Bottom Fisheries | 7:00 PM (Repeats daily with some select dates not available)
Views. music. BYOB. What better way to watch the sun set over the Portland Skyline and nearby lighthouses than on Rocky Bottom Fisheries’ lobster boat out on Casco Bay? Go ahead, picture it. Amazing, right? A perfect way to end the weekend you and your crew can make this cruise the ultimate delight with the option to add-on a lobster roll from Luke’s Lobster. 21 + event. Tickets.
Live Music Happy Hour Cruise | Fogg’s Water Taxi & Charters | 7:00 PM (Repeats Saturday)
Come cruise on Casco Bay at sunset with live music by some of Portland’s best local musicians! The historic Joseph S. Kennedy leaves from the heart of downtown Portland. You will enjoy the beautiful sights and history of Casco Bay while listening to some great music. Fogg’s Water Taxi will also have a large selection local beer and wine for sale on board. This is a 2 hour cruise that is one of the best ways to see some of Casco bay’s greatest sights. Tickets.
Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers | State Theatre | 8:00 PM
Based out of Williamsburg, Virginia, Bruce Hornsby has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His iconic title track became a radio sensation, and his collaboration with Bonnie Raitt on “I Can’t Make You Love Me” further showcased his musical prowess. Not only has Hornsby enjoyed a successful solo career, but he has also collaborated with numerous legendary artists, including Bob Dylan, Don Henley, and the Grateful Dead. With 23 albums and over 100 records under his belt, Hornsby’s music has captivated audiences worldwide. An unforgettable evening as Bruce Hornsby shares his incredible talent and performs tracks from his latest studio album, ‘Flicted. With 13 Grammy® nominations and a rich musical legacy, Hornsby continues to captivate audiences with his extraordinary artistry. Tickets.
Board Games on Milk Street | Milk Street Pop-Up Park | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Get ready for some board game fun this summer! Join every other Friday at Milk Street in downtown Portland for an evening of gaming excitement. Portland Downtown and FriendCon will provide a variety of board games for you to enjoy, but feel free to bring your own favorites too! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, all skill levels are welcome. They are also hosting a skill share event where you can showcase your talents. Are you a storyteller or an artist? Come and share your hobbies! It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow creatives and discover new passions.
Charlotte’s Web| The Children’s Museum & Theatre | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Repeats Saturday + Sunday)
Experience the beloved tale of friendship and bravery as Charlotte’s Web comes to life on stage. Based on the timeless book by E.B. White, this heartwarming play, dramatized by Joseph Robinette, tells the story of a clever spider named Charlotte who forms an unlikely bond with a young pig named Wilbur. Together, they embark on a journey filled with words of wisdom, courage, and selflessness. As Charlotte weaves her intricate webs, she spins a plan to save Wilbur’s life, teaching valuable lessons about friendship, love, and the bittersweet nature of life itself. This enchanting production captures the essence of E.B. White’s Newbery Honor Book, captivating audiences of all ages. Tickets.
Mark Erelli w/ Molly Parden | One Longfellow Square | 8:00 PM
Experience the captivating music of Mark Erelli as he unveils his album Lay Your Darkness Down. With finely embroidered rock songs that burn with urgency, Erelli’s powerful songwriting draws inspiration from rock legends like Tom Petty and George Harrison. From love’s transformational power to the wonders of our planet, his music explores profound themes. Following a remarkable career as a singer-songwriter, sideman, and producer, Erelli’s latest album is a testament to his resilience and artistic vision. A performance that will leave you inspired and uplifted. Tickets.
Out With A Bang | The Danforth | 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pride Month is going out with a bang at The Danforth! Join for an unforgettable night of dancing, dazzling drag performances, and delightful drinks as they toast to an incredible Pride Month 2023. Prepare to be entertained by the fabulous talents of Chartreuse, Letta Dicken, GiGi Gabor, Finngerring, and Raya Sunshine! The event will take place from 9pm to 12am (Danni’s is open until 1am), and there’s a $10 cover charge, with all proceeds going to support the incredible work of Out Maine. Don’t miss out on this fantastic celebration of love, diversity, and community. $10 cover.
Saturday the 1st
4th of July Lobster Dinner | ALTO Terrace Bar + Kitchen |5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (July 1st – 4th, 2023)
Celebrate the 4th of July at ALTO Terrace Bar + Kitchen! From July 1st to July 4th, enjoy a special Lobster Dinner Special at Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown Old Port. Indulge in a whole lobster, steamers, potatoes, corn, and your choice of a drink for only $70 per person. The perfect setting for a fun summer night complete with great food, cold drinks, and good vibes, ALTO Terrace Bar + Kitchen offers a vibrant atmosphere with a curated selection of craft beers and a rooftop dining patio. Don’t miss out on this festive celebration in the heart of Portland’s Old Port neighborhood. Book online.
2nd Annual Butterfly Ball | Jewel Box | 9:00 PM
Get ready to spread your wings and join The Jewel Box for the 2nd Annual Butterfly Ball! Hosted by Black Power Portland Maine, this glamorous event will take place at the stunning Jewel Box. Show off your style and elegance as they celebrate and dance in full butterfly fashion. And of course, there will be prizes for the best dressed attendees, so come dressed to impress! Get ready for a night of enchantment and let your inner butterfly shine. All proceeds to the Black and Brown queer community. $5-10 sliding scale.
Eastern Cemetery Summer Tours | Eastern Cemetery | 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Embark on a fascinating journey through Portland’s history and embrace the spooky side with Spirits Alive Eastern Cemetery Tours! From Memorial Day to Labor Day, explore the oldest historic landscape in Portland and encounter the resting place of local legends. Delve into the stories and mysteries of this remarkable cemetery, where the past comes alive. An unforgettable experience in the heart of Portland, Maine. Tickets.
Stone Broke | Gritty McDuff’s Pub | 9:30 PM
Get ready to rock out with Stone Broke, the ultimate tribute band to the iconic music of the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s! With their electrifying performances, they’ll take you on a nostalgic journey through the golden eras of rock, country, and blues. Stone Broke will have you singing along to all your favorite hits and reliving the magic of these unforgettable decades.
Two Minutes Out | Amigos | 9:30 PM
Get ready for round 2 at Amigos as Two Minutes Out takes the stage once again to deliver an epic night of rock music! This 4-piece rock band will bring their unique blend of alternative, punk, and grungy blues to ignite the crowd. Get ready to rock out to their original tracks and sing along to your favorite covers. You can even listen to their released songs on Spotify and Apple Music to get a taste of their incredible sound. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Two Minutes Out in action.
Sunday the 2nd
Music for Meal Pop-Up Show | Free Street | 6:00 PM
Feeding spirit through song! Join the Music for Meals community for a night of live music and giving back. Get ready to groove to the sounds of Possum, The Phosphorescent Rats, Frank Burns Band, Darby Sabin, Kevin Roper, and many more special guests. This event is all about fighting food insecurity and making a positive impact in the community. Music for Meals partners with local food banks and donates 100% of the event proceeds to provide basic nutritional needs to those in need. Come be a part of this incredible mission while enjoying incredible performances. Tickets.
Fort Gorges Sea Kayak Tour | Portland Paddle | 9:30 AM, 10:00 AM, & 1:30 PM (Repeats almost daily, some times and days limited)
Experience the rich history of Portland’s Fort Gorges with a guided sea kayak tour that takes you on an unforgettable journey. This 3-hour adventure combines the thrill of sea kayaking along the Maine coast with a visit to the legendary granite fort, only accessible by small boat. Highlights of the trip include exploring Fort Gorges for 30-45 minutes, the chance to spot seals, osprey, eagles, and various seabirds, and approximately two hours of slow to moderate-paced sea kayaking suitable for beginners. While on the water, expect a bit of splashing and dripping, but don’t worry, it’s all part of the fun! Book your tour directly online with Portland Paddle and get ready for a memorable experience that combines history and outdoor exploration. Tickets.
For more events head to our Events Calendar here.