10 Festivals In Maine That Food Lovers Should NOT Miss
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Michelle
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In Maine, food is more than just something we eat. It’s a point of local pride and it’s something to be celebrated. From our hard-working lobstermen to the people who have mastered the art of the wonderful whoopie pie, Mainers have so much to celebrate all year long. If you love Maine food, check out these festivals in Maine that promise to satiate just about any palate.
Now in its 7th year, this annual festival is a must-experience for those who love Maine's official state treat. From 10am to 3pm, attendees will be treated to the best whoopie pies from across the state along with activities such as eating contests, live stage performances and races. Keep up with them on Facebook for photos and more information.
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Now in its 41st year, this festival includes so much more than just food. In addition to experiencing all the strawberry shortcake one could possibly want, attendees will also have the opportunity to browse local crafts and artisans. To sweeten the event, you'll be helping good causes throughout the community. Festival funds raised are distributed based on a grant system to organizations in need. Learn more on their website.
The Houlton Agricultural Fair became an official State of Maine licensed fair in 1986, but there are documents that indicate the festival may have been around since the 1800s. While this one isn't dedicated to food, if you love the games, rides and fun of a State Fair you'll certainly enjoy the typical fair food available here. From ribbon fries to ice cream, you'll need to save room before heading here for the weekend. Find out more by clicking here.
If you love the agricultural history of Maine, this event is for you. Over the course of nine days, people from all over The County come together to enjoy live music, craft vendors, a huge beer garden, a food court and (perhaps best of all) mashed potato wrestling! Learn more at their website.
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This year's event will mark the 51st time the community of Yarmouth has come together to celebrate all things clam. The annual summer carnival will begin Wednesday the 13th. The rest of the festivities begin at 10am on Friday. Steamer the Clam will start things off by raising the flag. After that, attendees will spend the weekend enjoying a parade, live music and tons of food and fun.
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This celebration of lobster has grown so large that it's known far beyond the state line. Visitors will dig into the best lobster in the country. In addition to the glorious food options, the weekend includes live music, craft vendors, a road race and cooking contests. The best part? The Maine Lobster Festival is a non-profit organization that donates all proceeds to local Midcoast communities. Check out their website for more information.
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This year's 41st annual festival will feature the always-anticipated Blueberry Festival Musical which runs for five nights beginning on August 16th. In addition, more than 250 local vendors will pack the area offering you many opportunities to go home with something special. You'll also enjoy cooking contests, raffles and live music. And, of course, there will be a blueberry pie eating contest. For updated information, visit the festival website.
This one-day event celebrates the wonder of the red hot dog. Beginning at 8am with a "bun-run" and continuing with eating contests, cooking contests, an obstacle course, food vendors and beer, this event promises to be as quirky as it sounds. All proceeds benefit the Dexter Revitalization Committee. For more information visit them here.
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The 5th Annual event will feature the same celebration of local culture that have entertained visitors each year. This is one of the most varied events on this list, with a mix of entertainment, wellness activities and (of course) all the incredible food you would expect at a coastal Maine festival. Learn more about the daily activities and the overall schedule on their website.
This event is quite different than some of the more casual summer events on this list, but it's perfect for the foodie who is willing to pay more for access to all things Maine culinary. Events include an opening gala reception, the Maine lobster chef of the year competition, and various tasting events. Attending this food and wine festival helps support Good Shepherd Food Bank, an organization working to alleviate food insecurity among Maine families. Tickets go on sale in the late Spring and can be purchased for the many individual event throughout the weekend. Check their website for updated information as the event draws closer.
What are your not-to-be-missed festivals? Let us know over on our Facebook page!
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