Maine, September 15, 2025
News Summary
This weekend, Maine features a diverse array of arts, music, and community festivals, including the renowned Common Ground Country Fair and dance performances in Portland. The agricultural fair in Unity showcases livestock, local crafts, and food, while theatrical events and concerts highlight the performing arts scene. Additional upcoming events throughout the fall season promise rich cultural experiences across the state.
Portland — A broad slate of arts, music and community festivals will take place across Maine this weekend and into the coming months, with multiple events in Portland and activities stretching from Unity to Boothbay. The weekend’s highlights include a long-running agricultural fair, contemporary dance performances, a music documentary screening, and outdoor multimedia concerts, with additional theater, comedy and seasonal attractions scheduled through December.
Key events this weekend
The most immediate events run from Friday through Sunday and include the annual agricultural fair in Unity and several performances and screenings in Portland and nearby coastal venues.
Common Ground Country Fair — Unity (Friday–Sunday)
The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association Education Center in Unity will host the Common Ground Country Fair, a multi-day event now approaching its 50th year. The fair features livestock exhibits, educational lectures, live music, local crafts and food vendors. Organizers anticipate strong attendance and advise that tickets be purchased in advance when possible.
Pinnacle Works — The Hill Arts, Portland (Friday–Sunday)
The Boston Theater Company presents Pinnacle Works, a dance program performed Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 5:30 p.m. The repertory includes works from Brazil, Western Europe and Israel by several noted choreographers. Advance tickets are listed at $25, with door prices at $29.
Jeff Buckley Documentary Screening — Merrill Auditorium, Portland (Saturday at 7 p.m.)
The film presentation titled It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley is scheduled for Saturday evening at Merrill Auditorium. The screening includes interviews and archival footage chronicling the artist’s life. Ticket prices range from $10 to $48 depending on seating and availability.
Sound Waves Concert — Wells Reserve at Laudholm (Sunday at 4 p.m.)
A multimedia presentation combining live organ performance and visual projections will take place at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm on Sunday. Municipal organist James Kennerly is the featured performer; general admission is listed at $25.
Additional upcoming performances and seasonal events
Beyond the weekend, Maine venues are hosting several notable events through the fall and holiday season, including dance, theater, comedy, and large-scale light displays.
- Boston Dance Theater: Surge at Bumbleroot Organic Farm, Windham — Monday, 5:30–7 p.m. A contemporary dance performance that pairs choreography with ocean science and climate-focused themes; includes an interactive workshop.
- Vigorous Tenderness Outdoor Concert Series at Bumbleroot Organic Farm — Autumn. A program emphasizing marginalized voices in classical music with multiple artists and a new dance work.
- Annual Maine Craft Weekend — October 4–5. Statewide open studios where artists invite the public in for demonstrations and shopping opportunities.
- Wanda Sykes: Please & Thank You Tour at Merrill Auditorium, Portland — October 11. Tickets range from $48 to $78.
- Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta — October 10–13. Event includes pumpkin derby races, a food court and street performances.
- Stephen King’s Misery stage adaptation at The Public Theatre, Lewiston — October 24–November 9. Ticket prices are listed between $20 and $35.
- Tina Turner Musical — November 14. Advance tickets at $25 and $29 the day of the show.
- Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay — November 15–January 3. A seasonal light display spanning 14 acres with approximately 750,000 LED lights; tickets are $10–$23.
- Portland Symphony Orchestra: Magic of Christmas — December 12–21. A series of holiday concerts featuring the PSO’s choir and guest performers; ticket range $28–$94.
Practical details and planning tips
Many events list advance ticket prices and door prices where applicable. For high-attendance gatherings such as the Common Ground Country Fair and popular theater or concert performances, advance purchase is recommended to secure preferred seating and to avoid capacity limits. Several events are outdoors or at farm venues; attendees should prepare for variable weather and bring appropriate clothing. Accessibility accommodations vary by venue—patrons are advised to consult venue policies or contact organizers directly for specifics.
Background and context
Maine’s fall and winter calendar traditionally mixes agricultural fairs and community festivals with performing arts seasons that extend into the holiday period. The Common Ground Country Fair has a long history as an agricultural showcase and community gathering. The performing arts offerings reflect a mixture of touring acts and regionally produced works, ranging from contemporary dance companies to orchestral holiday programming. Seasonal attractions such as Gardens Aglow and craft weekends contribute to tourism and local commerce through the late fall and winter months.
Event contact and ticketing overview
Ticket prices cited in this summary reflect published ranges at the time of the announcement and may vary by seating tier, age category or purchase method. For the most current availability and specific accessibility options, attendees should reference individual venue ticketing platforms or contact venue box offices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I buy tickets for these events?
Tickets are generally available through venue box offices, official event websites, or authorized ticketing vendors. Prices and availability can change, and some events recommend advance purchase to secure attendance.
Are these events family-friendly?
Many events listed are suitable for families, including the agricultural fair, outdoor concerts and seasonal festivals. Individual performances may have age recommendations; check the specific event listing for guidance.
What should I know about outdoor events and weather?
Outdoors and farm-based events may be affected by weather. Attendees should prepare with weather-appropriate clothing and check event updates for postponement or cancellation information.
Are accessibility services available?
Accessibility services vary by venue. Many theaters and public venues provide accessible seating, assistive listening devices and mobility accommodations. Contact the venue or event organizer before attending to confirm available services.
Event summary table
| Event | Location | Date / Time | Ticket Price (when listed) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Common Ground Country Fair | Unity (MOFGA Education Center) | Friday–Sunday (this weekend) | Varies; advance purchase recommended | Agriculture, livestock, music, crafts, lectures |
| Pinnacle Works | The Hill Arts, Portland | Fri & Sat 7 p.m.; Sun 5:30 p.m. | $25 advance; $29 door | Dance repertory from international choreographers |
| Jeff Buckley Documentary | Merrill Auditorium, Portland | Saturday, 7 p.m. | $10–$48 | Biographical documentary with archival footage |
| Sound Waves Concert | Wells Reserve at Laudholm | Sunday, 4 p.m. | $25 | Organist with multimedia projections |
| Boston Dance Theater: Surge | Bumbleroot Organic Farm, Windham | Monday, 5:30–7 p.m. | Not listed | Dance and ocean science; includes workshop |
| Maine Craft Weekend | Statewide | October 4–5 | Free entry to studios; purchases vary | Artist open studios and demonstrations |
| Wanda Sykes | Merrill Auditorium, Portland | October 11 | $48–$78 | Comedy performance (tour) |
| Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta | Damariscotta | October 10–13 | Admission details vary | Pumpkin boat races, food, street performers |
| Misery (stage) | The Public Theatre, Lewiston | October 24–November 9 | $20–$35 | Theatrical adaptation of Stephen King novel |
| Tina Turner Musical | Venue TBA | November 14 | $25 advance; $29 day-of | Biographical musical concert |
| Gardens Aglow | Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay | November 15–January 3 | $10–$23 | Large-scale LED light display over 14 acres |
| Portland Symphony Orchestra: Magic of Christmas | Portland-area venues | December 12–21 | $28–$94 | Orchestral holiday performances with choir |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Boston Local Food Festival Celebrates 15 Years of Local Flavors
September Events Illuminate North Shore Culture
Boston Offers Wide Range of Student Discounts
Boston Symphony Orchestra Announces Free Community Concerts
South Shore Fall Guide: Pumpkin Patches and Scenic Trails
Additional Resources
- Press Herald: Maine’s Can’t-Miss Events in 2025
- Wikipedia: Festivals in Maine
- Downeast: Maine Fall Festivals
- Google Search: Maine Fall Festivals
- Portland Food Map: Upcoming Food and Dining Events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Maine
- Live for Live Music: Portland Maine Back Cove Music & Arts Festival
- Google News: Portland Maine Events
- JamBase: Emily King at Portland House of Music
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