Family events in Cumberland County, ME

Naturalist Doug Hitchcox leads an accessibility-focused birding session at Back Cove in Portland, meeting at the Back Cove Trail parking lot. The plan is to remain in one area for viewing near several permanent benches along the trail, which has a compacted stone dust surface approximately five feet wide. Scheduled as the tide comes in, the outing may bring birds closer for easier observation. Expect opportunities to watch arriving ducks and geese, look for sparrows that may still be around, and study the gulls that frequent the cove. Extra binoculars and monoculars will be available to borrow. The event is free and does not require registration. Inspired by Birdability Week, it celebrates birders with disabilities and shares ideas that support accessibility and inclusion in the birding community. Maine Audubon strives to make programs inclusive and accessible, and accommodation requests are welcome with at least seven days’ notice.

Explore the basics of DNA through a playful, hands-on activity. Participants will get a brief introduction to what DNA is, then build a simple candy-based model to visualize its structure. This friendly science activity turns sweets into a creative way to see how the pieces of life fit together.

Take part in a weekly Pokémon Trading Card Game league and connect with other players in a friendly, casual setting. Drop in for a bit or stay for the whole session. Each participant who plays receives a complimentary Pokémon prize pack, available to registered League members only. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Drop in with children of any age and their caregivers to enjoy a mix of stories, songs, and movement. Some sessions may include special guests or seasonal activities.

A welcoming community supper invites Falmouth residents to share a free meal featuring roast turkey with all the trimmings, vegetables, and homemade apple crisp topped with ice cream. Contributions given at will will support the Falmouth Food Pantry. Volunteers are needed, with sign-ups in Fellowship Hall for tasks such as serving tables, cleanup, kitchen help, contributing food, or roasting a turkey. The evening centers on good food, neighborly connection, and lending support to those in need during the winter season.

Cirque Alfonse brings La Noce to Merrill Auditorium, a jubilant salute to love that fuses circus, live music, dance, and mischievous humor into a high-spirited whirlwind. Suitable for all ages, each show spotlights a couple from the audience through a series of daring scenes featuring aerial straps, flair bartending, teeterboard, roller skating, bungee, archery face-offs, juggling, tightwire, and swing dance. A live score inspired by Québécois folk blends traditional and modern sounds, setting the tone for a gleefully unconventional love celebration where bold feats, athletic artistry, and joyful pandemonium are shared between stage and seats. The venue is wheelchair accessible. Assistive listening devices are offered, and ear protection is available upon request. The production features flashing lights, moments of darkness, and loud sound. Savings are available with a Pick 3 package that reduces each ticket by $5 when buying three or more, as well as a Take 5 option offering five performances for $20 each. Ticket exchanges are limited to Portland Ovations members and must be completed before PortTIX closes on the business day prior to the performance.

ADA dancers, their families, and friends are invited to a community Trunk or Treat that welcomes everyone. Prospective trunk hosts can register ahead of time and are encouraged to come in costume, decorate their trunk, and bring candy or non-edible treats to share. Candy donations are appreciated. Arrive in your favorite costume and make it a family outing filled with creativity and treats, with decorated trunks, games, music, and plenty of sweets. This free public event features prizes for standout trunks and a costume contest open to both kids and adults.

This annual Trunk or Treat offers a simple way to take part. Trunk registrations are available, and donations of candy or treats are being accepted at all locations.

At Thompson’s Point in Portland, ME, the Maker’s Market brings together New England artisans, craftspeople, and specialty food makers for a festive, family-friendly shopping experience inside the venue’s event spaces. Expect a curated selection of handmade art, home décor, and gourmet foods in a welcoming, community-centered setting that draws thousands each season. Sea Spray will be on site with a vendor booth, meeting loyal local shoppers and newcomers alike within a professionally managed marketplace.

Powered by community donations and support from Pet Supplies Plus in Portland and Windham, Meow Lounge is hosting its first free cat supply pantry. All are welcome, and items are available at no cost while supplies last. If stock is depleted early, updates will be posted on Facebook, and calling ahead is recommended to confirm availability.

Celebrate the Halloween season with a family-friendly afternoon of pumpkin carving, hot cider, and treats. All pumpkins and carving tools are supplied so everyone can dive right into their creations. This gathering is free to attend, and the bar will be open as a place for parents to meet and relax.

Designed for children ages 3 to 6, this in-person Spanish class blends play and learning as kids explore new words and grow confidence through games, songs, movement, storytelling, and other interactive activities. It offers a friendly environment for both newcomers and continuing learners at any level. Instruction is provided in person by Señorita Dafni.

Part of a series of in-person Q+A nights, this event gives families an opportunity to learn about the programming, take a tour of the campus, and ask questions of current staff and students. RSVP is available.