It’s an action-packed weekend ahead! Here’s the rundown of events happening in Portland, Maine this weekend!
Calling all fun-gis! This weekend, dive into the enchanting world of fungi at Maine Fungi Fest. And forget October 3rd because Portland, Maine is bringing Mean Girls to life this weekend, Broadway style! Families, get ready for excitement at the Touch a Truck event, while beer enthusiasts can toast to a decade of delicious brews at Austin Street Brewery’s 10th anniversary bash. But wait, there’s even more excitement brewing…find it all below!
Here’s The Weekend Guide for Friday, May 17th– Sunday, May 19th, 2024
Friday the 17th
Rigometrics w/ Bermuda Search Party | PHOME | 8:00 PM
Rigometrics is making waves in the Northeast music scene with their original, high-energy rock n’ roll sound. Comprised of Josef Berger on explosive guitar solos, Derek Haney on pulsating beats, and Keenan Hendricks delivering extraordinary vocals and piano skills, the three-piece band captivates audiences with their transformative performances. Since forming in 2021, Rigometrics has toured extensively, sold out venues, and released multiple albums and singles, all while maintaining an undeniable stage presence. Rigometrics will be joined by Bermuda Search Party, formerly known as The Q-Tip Bandits, bringing their energetic and vibrant sound, which blends rock, R&B, and funk into an irresistible groove. Tickets.
Maine Fungi Fest | USM | All Weekend
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of fungi at the Maine Fungi Fest! This unique event celebrates all things fungi, plant-based healing, and evolving consciousness. AREA A will host workshops, panel discussions, keynote speakers, and Sponsor/Vendor Tables, while AREA B will feature live visual and performing artists, DJs/bands, healing arts and wellness offerings, holistic practitioners, community art creation, circus arts, spoken word, and more. Don’t miss out on the Permatours Tea Lounge, a sound healing and bodywork space, and a Film/Video screening area. A weekend of exploration, education, and inspiration. Tickets.
HXR’s Free Beer & Hot Wings Annual Live Show | Aura | The Morning Show: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
The Night Show 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
A double dose of entertainment at WHXR’s Free Beer & Hot Wings Annual Live Show, presented by 106.3. Start your day with the early ‘safe’ radio version of the show from 6am – 10am, followed by the Night Show, which promises a little more ‘naughty’ fun, from 7pm – 9pm. Both events are exclusively for those aged 21 and above, and multiple cash bars will be available to keep the good times flowing all day and night. Don’t miss out on this annual extravaganza of laughs and entertainment! Tickets.
Mean Girls Broadway Tour | Merrill Auditorium | 7:00 PM
Get ready to experience the iconic story like never before as Mean Girls, the hilarious hit Broadway musical, hits the road for its highly anticipated tour. Direct from Broadway, this production brings to life the witty and sharp humor of the original movie, with an award-winning creative team behind the scenes. Written by Tina Fey, composer Jeff Richmond, lyricist Nell Benjamin, and directed by Casey Nicholaw, Mean Girls follows the story of Cady Heron, a newcomer to the suburban jungle of Illinois who finds herself entangled in the drama of the Plastics, a clique led by the charming yet ruthless Regina George. With a blend of humor, wit, and heart, Mean Girls explores the challenges of fitting in, the power dynamics of teenage friendships, and the lessons learned when trying to take down the queen bee herself. Tickets.
Hana Makgeolli Demo & Tasting | Onggi | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Indulge in an evening of Korean culture and flavor at Onggi. Join for an immersive experience where you’ll meet founder and brewer Alice Jun, who will guide you through the art of making your own makgeolli homebrew. Savor exclusive cuvées as you learn about this traditional Korean rice wine, known for its refreshing and bubbly nature. To complement the tasting, enjoy an array of anju, little bites designed to enhance your drinking experience. Tickets.
Skosh | Portland Lobster Co. | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Get ready to groove with Skosh, the dynamic funk/rock/jam band hailing from Buckfield, Maine, as they hit the stage live at Portland Lobster Co.! Since their formation in 2007, Skosh has been igniting stages with their infectious energy and genre-blending sound. With Jedidiah Allen on drums and vocals, Eli Allen on bass and backing vocals, Peter Richard on saxophone, and Jay Larkin on guitar and vocals, Skosh promises an unforgettable night of music that will have you dancing from start to finish. An evening of funk-filled vibes.
Saturday the 18th
8th Annual Touch A Truck | 1053 Forest Avenue | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Gear up for a thrilling day at The Children’s Center’s 8th Annual Touch a Truck Event! This family-friendly extravaganza offers kids of all ages the chance to explore, climb into, and learn about an exciting variety of trucks and vehicles. From iconic taxis to impressive fire trucks, there’s something for every little enthusiast. Admission is $5 per person or $20 for families of 4 or more, and babes in arms get in free!
6th Anniversary Bash | Definitive Brewing Co. | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Raising a glass to six incredible years of Definitive Beer! The festivities will be in full swing with an array of exciting activities for all ages. Sample their extensive tap list featuring creative brews like Orbit DIPA, Diamonds Are Forever Key Lime Pineapple Pie Sour, Vanilla Superdome Milkshake DIPA, and Radiant Days Sour with Blueberry, Raspberry, and Maple. Enjoy live music throughout the day, with a 90’s tribute band from 12pm – 3pm followed by the energetic sounds of the Tumbledown Saints from 3pm – 6pm. Treat your taste buds to an assortment of culinary delights from local food trucks Tacos Del Seoul, Terra Firma, PB & ME, and Cruzin’ Slice. Plus, keep the little ones entertained with a bounce house. Rain or shine.
10 Year Celebration | Austin Brewery Co. | 12:00 PM
Join Austin Street Brewery as they raise a toast to a decade of brewing excellence! Throughout the day, they’re pulling out all the stops with exciting festivities. Indulge in their special 10 Year Anniversary Double IPA, crafted in collaboration with Cerebral Brewing, and grab exclusive glassware and stickers to commemorate the occasion. Savor delectable bites from food trucks like Great Wave Sushi, Vintage Dogs, and Eighty 8 Donuts, and explore exquisite jewelry offerings from Permanent Jewelry by Goodstock Maine. Get creative with face painting by Constellation Arts Wellness and groove to the beats of a live band. Test your luck with the raffle featuring prizes from local businesses and capture unforgettable memories at our photo booth.
Scottish Fish | One Longfellow Square | 8:00 PM
Scottish Fish brings a fresh perspective to traditional and contemporary Scottish and Cape Breton music, weaving together lively and unique arrangements rooted in generations of tradition. With performances at renowned festivals and venues like the Boston Celtic Music Festival and Club Passim, they’ve garnered attention from media outlets like WGBH and KALW, as well as magazines such as American Girl and Folkworld. Their captivating music has even caught the eye of programs like America’s Got Talent. Their latest record, “Upscale” celebrates the band’s ten-year anniversary with their signature blend of creativity and talent, dubbed as “incredibly musical and just a little unusual.” Tickets.
4th Annual “Feeding Neighbors in Need” Benefit Concert | Aura | 6:30 PM
An unforgettable evening of music and giving back! Join for a sensational performance by The Don Campbell Band as they deliver an electrifying blend of originals and covers. Proceeds from ticket sales and donations will benefit the South Portland Food Cupboard, with a goal to raise $25,000 to support their vital work. Enjoy sensational live music, camaraderie, cocktails, and guaranteed good vibes, all while making a difference in our community. Mark your calendars and grab your tickets for a night of music and meaningful impact! Tickets.
Sunday the 19th
Birds on Tap! Warblers and Wort with Maine Brews Cruise | Meeting Location: Marginal Way Park & Ride | 8:00 AM
Get ready for an unforgettable birding and beer adventure with Maine Brews Cruise! In May, Portland’s Evergreen Cemetery and Capisic Pond Park become hotspots for warbler migration, offering a haven for tired travelers seeking food, water, and shelter after a long night of migration. With up to 18 warbler species possible by mid-May, along with other migratory birds like sparrows, raptors, orioles, and tanagers, the diversity of species is sure to impress. You’ll spend about 3 hours birdwatching before heading to local breweries to sample their offerings and learn about their unique styles. Tickets.
A Taste of Nations Food | Mayo Street Arts | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Embark on a culinary journey around the globe at Mayo Street Arts and Fork Food Lab’s A Taste of Nations Food Festival! Indulge your taste buds with succulent bites from local vendors representing a diverse range of national and international cuisines. From Hellenic Kitchen to Cambodia’s Best, Niyat Catering to Oga Suya, and more, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Plus, enjoy curated libations, captivating art installations, and live DJ sets by talented artists like Sergio Cahueque of WMPG’s Our Latin Thing. Gluten-free, dairy-free, halal, and vegan options available. Tickets.
Brunch Bingo | East Ender | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Join Hosts Timmy Elliot (Timmy’s Comedy Corner at Coals Bayside) and Jeremiah Gilley every Sunday for Brunch Bingo at East Ender. A brunch experience that’s the ultimate combination of delicious food and thrilling bingo games. Don’t miss out on the chance to win while enjoying your favorite brunch dishes in good company.
Maine Heart Walk | Back Cove Trail | 8:00 AM
Join the movement against heart disease and stroke at the upcoming Maine Heart Walk! ThisAmerican Heart Association fundraiser is a crucial step in the fight for cardiovascular health. The event kicks off with a morning celebration hosted by Channel 8 WMTW’s Kathleen Jordan and 101.9 POR’s Courtney Ross, featuring inspiring speeches from local heart disease survivors, essential stroke prevention information, and valuable tips for improving heart and brain health. Lace up your sneakers and join for a day of empowerment and action!
For more events head to our Events Calendar here.
