With the holiday season safely in the rear view mirror, it’s time to settle in to winter mode here in Portland. That’s no excuse to stay at home on the couch, though! Use the colder months as reason to drink hearty beer and warm yourself up on the dance floor.
1. Lace up your dancing shoes for Foundation Friday (21 +)
Where: Flask Lounge, 117 Spring Street
When: Friday starting at 9:00 pm
Cost: Free entrance
This one’s for all the house and techno lovers around town. The second Friday of every month, Flask Lounge hosts DJs Mike Said, Mr. Dereloid, and Kid Ray for a set where, “substance trumps hype. No ego. No fluff. Truschool house and techno music for dancing mixed by seasoned DJs.” Got it people? Leave the fluff at home!
2. Get red hot at Blue
Where: Blue, 650 Congress Street
When: Friday at 10:00 pm
Cost: Suggested donation to the artists
If techno isn’t your thing, swing by Congress Street to warm up with the Acadian Aces at Blue. This “bourbon-flavored Cajun music from old Acadie” is sure to pick you up on a wintery Friday evening. If you’re curious about Cajun music, you can watch a performance by Acadian Aces on channel 6’s 207 here. It’s always promising when a music group lists “bourbon whiskey” as their band interest on Facebook.
3. Shop locally at the Portland, Maine Farmers’ Market
Where: Urban Farm Fermentory, 200 Anderson Street
When: Saturday from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Cost: Free entrance
The winter won’t stop the good people of Urban Farm Fermentory from hosting the weekly Farmers’ Market. Come check out their new Bay Two vendor area to support local artisans, farms, and purveyors. You know they’re doing something right when this market has been around since 1778.
4. Warm up with some cold beers at Novare Res (21 +)
Where: Novare Res, 4 Canal Plaza
When: Sunday from 4:00 pm to close
Cost: Pay as you drink
Novare Res is hosting their 6th annual Stout Fest, or “12 Stouts after Christmas.” Come to this Portland beer Mecca on Sunday and get your fill of pours that are perfect companions to a cold January night. Boasting “vintage RIS, Belgians, and many more tasty treats,” enjoy a relaxing evening in this cozy downtown hotspot.
5. Top off your weekend with a documentary at Space Gallery
Where: Space Gallery, 538 Congress Street
When: Sunday from 7:30 – 9:30 pm
Cost: $8 | $6 for members and students with ID in person or online
Space Gallery continues to provide Portland with original and thought provoking events. This Sunday is no exception with their showing of the documentary Bending Steel. This film follows Chris Schoek as he attempts to become a professional oldtime strongman. Struggling to overcome his insecurities and reservations, this documentary is sure to make the viewers reflect on their own lifes’ battles. Schoek will be in attendance to answer the audience’s questions after the film.