Events in Portland, ME

This weekly gathering offers time to focus on creative projects, connect with new friends, and make space for planning and organizing. It is open to everyone, welcoming artists and community members to spend unhurried time together. Tea will be available. A guiding thought from Toni Morrison about the essential work of artists in difficult times provides inspiration, emphasizing expression and language as paths toward healing.

Out of Season, a Maine record label, marks its tenth anniversary by bringing together fantasy music and dungeon synth artists from around the world. Friday brings performances by Fogweaver, Grimdor, Pumpkin Witch, Sombre Arcane, Vaelastrasz, and Deep Gnome. Saturday follows with Thangorodrim, Frostgard, Putrid Marsh, Hillsfar, Foglord, and Hoarfrost.

Feud Night at Bissell Brothers in Portland pairs great food with a fast paced, survey-style game where teams try to predict the most popular answers given by 100 people. Expect playful prompts like where a certain green superhero should probably avoid working, what habit of housecats causes the most groans, or which morning noises outside a window are most likely to wake someone up. The format puts a team-friendly spin on the familiar concept, with twists that keep things lively and optional chances to wager if you want to stretch a lead or mount a comeback. The winning team earns a gift card. It is free to play, no tickets are required, and participants can take part on their own or with friends.

Sasha Velour brings TRAVESTY to the State Theatre in Portland, Maine, a sweeping drag production that journeys through queer life across different eras. Through electrifying lip-sync performances, Velour becomes a vivid cast of characters, from a witch facing the flames in a field to a clown testing balance on a high wire to a crowd in an underground gay bar standing up to the police. The experience blends performance art, history, and a call to action, celebrating cycles of existence, resistance, and camp that define drag. Expect big emotions, aisle-dancing energy, and moments that might leave you ready to, in Velour’s words, “change the muthaf*ckin’ world!” Each stop features a local Portland drag artist, creating a one-of-a-kind night unique to this city. All ages are welcome. Reserved seating ranges from $35 to $75. As BroadwayWorld put it, “It is point blank one of the most outstanding performances presently on stage.”

Naomi Lindenfeld returns to Portland Pottery for a two-day, full-process workshop centered on building layered ceramic surfaces with colored slips. Beginning with forming work in fresh clay and concluding with slip decoration, she demonstrates slab-building approaches that use templates along with folding, wrapping, and draping, and she covers effective ways to join and refine seams, edges, and corners. Participants will roll practice slabs to develop decorative ideas before applying them to their own pieces. Naomi then guides a range of surface techniques, including sgraffito, stenciling, combing, printing, inlay, and painting with eight colored slips to achieve depth and visual interest, and she explains how slips are made so participants can create their own. This visit follows her previous colored porcelain and nerikomi workshop.

Settle into a quiet co-working session at the Downtown Library to focus on personal tasks and to-do lists alongside others, with support from library staff. Enjoy hot coffee or tea while you work in a comfortable, low distraction space. A virtual option is available over Zoom for those who cannot attend in person. This recurring program takes place every third Wednesday and the last Saturday of the month. Participants can complete a worksheet in advance so staff can have helpful resources ready during the session.

Enjoy relaxed Commander play with fellow Magic players in a casual setting. Come and go as you wish and play for as long or as little as you like. There is no charge to participate. A complimentary Magic promo is available for anyone who plays and signs in using the Magic Companion app.

South Georgia Tormenta FC travels to Portland to take on Hearts of Pine at Fitzpatrick Stadium. The game brings together two teams with distinct approaches, and the cozy stadium environment keeps the speed of play, hard challenges, and momentum swings easy to follow.

Enjoy a lively fundraiser at the Italian Heritage Center featuring the high‑energy sounds and classic hits of Blues Brothers Next Generation, all in support of the Italian Heritage Center Scholarship Fund. The evening offers live entertainment, appetizers, raffles, a 50/50 drawing, and a cash bar for a spirited night of music and community. Seating requests will be considered so groups can sit together. Tickets are $40 for members and $45 for the general public, with member purchases verified against the active member list. Strong attendance is anticipated, so early ticket purchase is encouraged.

This community-focused family night starts with games and free pizza, then shifts to a movie that is occasionally shown in 3D. All of it is complimentary, with candy, popcorn, and drinks provided, and pinball machines available to play at no cost.

Presented by State Theatre, Turnstile brings the Never Enough Tour, part two, to Thompson’s Point with Yves Tumor and Fiddlehead also on the bill. This concert is open to all ages.

The set highlights the latest release, Silence Outlives The Earth, and also features select tracks honoring the 10th anniversary of Drift. Attendees must be 18 or older and present a valid ID. Doors open one hour before the show begins.

Enjoy a set from Easy Money Band with no cover required.

Put your music knowledge to the test with Sporcle's Music Quiz. There is no cost to participate, and prizes are available.

A Portland favorite returns to the Old Port for an afternoon Tunes'n'Brews session at The Thirsty Pig. This casual gathering is all about music and brews.

Entry is limited to guests 18 and older and a valid ID is required for admission. Doors will open one hour before the event begins, giving time to get settled. Tickets will be offered through a venue presale as well as a public onsale.

The State Theatre teams up with Live at Madrid’s to present Madison Cunningham with Julia Cumming. This all-ages show offers $30 advance tickets and $35 tickets on the day of the performance.

Ray LaMontagne brings the Trouble 20th Anniversary Tour to the State Theatre in Portland, presented by 98.9 WCLZ and featuring The Weather Station. These performances were rescheduled while he recovered from unexpected oral surgery, and all previously issued tickets for each night will be valid for the matching rescheduled night. If attendance is not possible, contact the original point of purchase for assistance. This is an all ages event.

Raise a glass at a new cocktail evening with a lively country twist. Expect a high energy night with plenty of yeehaw spirit, and consider wearing a stetson to match the theme. Table reservations are open at 01723 357740 ext 6.

Hosted by Danza Latina, this monthly Salsa Night at Three of Strong Spirits begins with a one-hour beginner lesson and then turns into a Latin dance party that lasts until close. The playlist features roughly sixty percent salsa, with the rest a mix of bachata and kizomba. The cover is $15, payable by cash or card at the door. Free parking is available on site.

An immersive LEGO experience for all ages returns to Portland, ME as BrickUniverse presents a major showcase of creations by celebrated artists from around the country. At the Portland Exposition Building, the fifth annual celebration features a Master Builder Art Gallery with large city scenes, life-size characters, and detailed microscale worlds, along with displays by local enthusiasts and collaborative projects. Interactive themed building zones invite visitors to create bold, clever builds and display them for a chance to be featured. Artist meet and greets provide a closer look at techniques and the creative process. Larger-than-life brick installations offer memorable photo opportunities, and the Brick Marketplace includes retired sets, custom pieces, exclusive merchandise, and other unique finds. Ticket options include a limited VIP pass with early access one hour before general admission and an exclusive VIP BrickUniverse LEGO brick badge, along with smaller crowds and enhanced photo opportunities. General admission is offered in timed sessions with full access to immersive zones, exhibits, and build spaces, and a family 4-pack is available. Timed entry helps ensure a comfortable, crowd-controlled experience, and attendees are asked to arrive during the selected entry window. The event welcomes families, LEGO lovers, artists and creators, kids, teens, adults, STEM students, and anyone who enjoys imagination and creativity.

The New Pornographers bring The Former Site Of Tour to State Theatre in Portland, Maine. This all ages concert features a live performance by the band.

Returning to Portland, Maine, the 2026 edition of the Maine Community Bank Maine Marathon features three race options: a full marathon, a half marathon, and a relay. Participants can choose the distance that suits their goals and take part in this community running event.

The Midnight brings the Time Machines Tour to the State Theatre in Portland, Maine, with Jessie Frye joining the bill. This is an all ages concert.

Ava Motherwell brings a pop-up trunk show to the shop with a curated selection of vintage beads and designs inspired by vintage styles, sourced from Germany and Italy. Explore Italian polyresin, carved and German resins, vintage lucite and glass, moonglow accents, and mid-century modern looks. Find neon options, leaf and flower motifs, marbled and matte finishes, faceted cuts, dangles and hoops, novelty pieces, and laser-cut designs, offered in sizes from 4 mm to 60 mm across a wide range of colors. Admission is free, and the event welcomes both the public and trade shoppers, with wholesale pricing available.

Benjamin Tod and Lost Dog Street Band bring their live show to the State Theatre in Portland, Maine, with Tommy Prine also on the bill. This all ages concert offers tickets priced at $27.50 in advance and $32.50 on the day of the show.

State Theatre presents The Black Keys on the Peaches 'n Kream World Tour with Jeremie Albino at Cross Insurance Arena. The concert is all ages and offers multiple ticket opportunities, including artist, venue, Spotify, Citi, and VIP presales, plus a public onsale.

Northern Light Health’s mobile mammography unit will be at Northern Light Mercy Health Center, providing screening mammograms in a comfortable, spacious setting with advanced 3D imaging. The program travels throughout Maine to make screening easier, and no provider order is required. For most women, screening is recommended starting at age 40 because finding cancer early often leads to quicker, more effective treatment. For questions, call 207.564.4353.

Mushroomhead and Fear Factory perform at Aura with guests Nine Treasures. Attendees must be 18 or older and present a valid ID. Doors open one hour before the show. Tickets will be available through a public on sale and a Live Nation presale.

Presented by Portland Ovations, the Julia Keefe Indigenous Big Band brings a vibrant celebration of Indigenous voices in jazz to the State Theatre in Portland, Maine. Led by acclaimed vocalist Julia Keefe, the ensemble unites Native and Indigenous musicians from communities throughout Indian Country to honor the often-overlooked legacy of pioneers such as Mildred Bailey and Jim Pepper, while also spotlighting contemporary Indigenous composers. Since its 2022 debut, the group has become a compelling presence on major stages, including the Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, earning praise from producer Pietra Mello-Pittman for its emotional power and standout artistry. This is an all-ages event with reserved seating, with tickets priced between $35 and $55.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live revs up with the 2026 Glow-N-Fire tour, bringing larger-than-life favorites like Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Bone Shaker, Bigfoot, and Skelesaurus into the spotlight while freestyle motocross athletes launch into gravity-defying stunts. A fire-breathing, car-smashing robot dinosaur amps up the spectacle. Making its debut, Rhinomite, a rhino-themed powerhouse, charges horn first into the competition. Expect high-energy, family-friendly thrills from start to finish. Children 2 and older require a ticket, with child pricing available for ages 2 to 12. Groups of 10 or more can secure discounts through Group Experiences by calling 207.791.2235.

Sylvan Esso performs at the State Theatre in Portland, Maine. The concert is open to all ages.

Kickstart the morning at a relaxed Cars and Coffee meet that is free and open to all. Enjoy a cup of coffee, explore the parked rides, chat with fellow enthusiasts, then head out ahead of lunchtime. Vehicles of every kind are invited, including commuters, weekend projects, classics, imports, and exotics. The club will be open during the event for tours, membership information, and exclusive offers.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire 2026 Tour storms into Cross Insurance Arena with larger-than-life favorites on the floor, including Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Bone Shaker, Bigfoot, and Skelesaurus. Freestyle motocross riders turn up the adrenaline with big-air stunts, and a fire-breathing robot dinosaur crushes cars for an extra jolt of spectacle. The lineup also introduces Rhinomite, a rhino-themed newcomer charging into the competition. This high-energy showcase is designed for families. Children ages 2 and up require a ticket, and kids tickets apply to ages 2 through 12. Groups of 10 or more can access discounted rates through Group Experiences at 207.791.2235.

At State Theatre in Portland, Maine, BERTHA: Grateful Drag brings a vibrant, drag-fronted tribute to the Grateful Dead, created in Tennessee in 2023 as a joyful stand against anti-drag legislation. What began as a single show quickly grew after a sold-out debut and attention from Rolling Stone and the San Francisco Chronicle, sparking an all-star roots collective with plenty of flair. Imagined by Mommy and Daddy Bertha, also known as Caitlin Doyle and GRAMMY-winning songwriter Melody Walker, the project expanded beyond its original all-female Nashville concept as queer and allied bluegrass and Americana artists joined the lineup, including Thomas Bryan Eaton on lead guitar, Jacob Groopman on bass, Mike Wheeler on rhythm guitar, Alex Jordan on keys, and Justin Vorp on drums. The group honors the tones, textures, and deep-groove spirit of the Dead while giving the catalog a bold new glow, with Doyle, Walker, and Wheeler trading leads as a powerful vocal trio. The sound leans into a high-energy late 70s and early 80s vibe, complete with a classic two-set, three-hour format and setlists that change every night. Community is central to each performance, with fundraising for a local LGBTQ+ organization and appearances by drag or burlesque performers from the host city. Audiences ranging from first-timers to lifelong Deadheads have embraced the show, from an early set at Newport Folk Festival to a San Francisco debut that earned Wavy Gravy’s approval. As longtime Grateful Dead publicist Dennis McNally said, “Jerry would have loved this.” This event is all ages.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live rolls in with the Glow-N-Fire tour, showcasing fan favorites like Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Bone Shaker, Bigfoot, and Skelesaurus. FMX riders throw down jaw-dropping tricks, and a robot dinosaur that breathes fire and crushes cars adds to the spectacle. A brand-new competitor, Rhinomite, joins the lineup as a rhino-themed powerhouse charging into the action. This is a high-energy experience for families. Children ages 2 and up need a ticket, and child tickets apply to ages 2 through 12. Groups of 10 or more can receive a discount through Group Experiences at 207.791.2235.

State Theatre in Portland, Maine hosts a stand up comedy set from New York City comedian Lucas Zelnick, known for punch heavy jokes that play off a privileged upbringing. Audiences may recognize him from Comedy Central, a headlining appearance at the Netflix is a Joke Festival, and roles in the feature films Regulars and Fade to Black. He has sold more than 50,000 tickets on tour and built an online audience of 1 million followers with 500 million views. He also holds an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business. This is an all ages show.

State Theatre in Portland, Maine hosts Cannons on The Everything Glows Tour. The Los Angeles trio of Michelle Joy on vocals, Ryan Clapham on guitar, and Paul Davis on drums and keys blends shimmering synths, atmospheric production, and vivid lyricism, a sound that has led to more than 1.4 billion streams, a performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, major festival appearances, and sold out headline shows. The concert spotlights their fifth album, Everything Glows, an 11-song collection shaped by the band’s shared experiences, moving from heartbreak and codependence toward a sense of release. This is an all ages event, with tickets priced at $32 in advance and $38 on the day of the show.

Bruce Cockburn appears alongside Livingston Taylor for a live performance at the State Theatre in Portland, Maine. The show is open to all ages.

Hawthorne Heights commemorates the 20th anniversary of If Only You Were Lonely at Aura. Attendees must be 18 or older and present a valid ID. Doors open one hour before showtime. Ticket options include an artist presale and an Aura presale, followed by a public on sale.

Throttle Car Club wraps up its Cruise-In series with a relaxed meet that highlights cars and community in Scarborough, Maine. This public gathering is free, with no awards, no scoring, and no stress. Every make, model, and build is welcome, and spectators are just as welcome to wander the lot and chat with fellow enthusiasts. While activities unfold outside, the club will be open for tours, membership information, and limited-time promotions, and club merchandise will be available. A low-key way to enjoy the season together.

Evan Honer brings the It's An Even Longer Road Tour to the State Theatre in Portland, Maine, joined by Zach Seabaugh. This concert is open to all ages.

Now in its fourteenth year, this spooky dance tradition brings a costumed zombie mob to Monument Square to re-create the legendary Thriller video by Michael Jackson. Watching the spectacle is free, and there is no fee to perform in the show. If weather or another emergency interferes, the performance may be moved to a different day. Prospective dancers can prepare through a structured class series that teaches choreography inspired by Michael Peters’ original, broken down step by step so even beginners can feel confident. Each session comes with supporting video tutorials. Classes are open to participants ages 12 and up. First time zombies are expected to attend all five classes and register in advance, while returning zombies may drop in. The final class is required for everyone. Training takes place at the Italian Heritage Center. A punch card for the series costs $65. After paying, you will receive confirmation and be added to the pre-registration list, then check in at the desk at the first class. Returning zombies may also pay at the door at a $15 drop in rate. Payments are accepted via Venmo at @avantmaine or PayPal at avantkristin@gmail.com.

Registration for the 2026 New England 10 Miler Series is open. Tackle three ten mile races that showcase the region, from ocean views at the Portland 10 Miler, to the storied streets of Newport at the BankNewport 10 Miler, and on to mountain scenery at the Vermont 10 Miler. A series entry includes all three events, an additional medal, special finisher gear, and bragging rights for crossing the finish line in Stowe.

Hot Mulligan brings its fall North American tour to State Theatre in Portland, Maine, joined by One Step Closer, Riley!, and Wakelee. This is an all ages concert.

Marc Maron brings his Yammering Into The Void Tour to the State Theatre in Portland, Maine. All ages are welcome, though the material includes mature content.

Leslie Jones brings her I’m Hot Tour to the State Theatre in Portland, Maine for an all-ages stand-up show. A three-time Primetime Emmy nominee, she has also received Writers Guild and NAACP award nominations for her work on Saturday Night Live, and she was named to Time Magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People. Jones wrapped production on season two of the HBO Max series Our Flag Means Death and served as the first guest host for a new chapter of The Daily Show. On film, she starred opposite Eddie Murphy in Coming 2 America, earning an MTV Movie Award and a People’s Choice Award nomination. She is developing and set to produce an untitled Lionsgate holiday comedy as a potential future starring role. In addition, she co-hosts the podcast The Fckry with comedian Lenny Marcus, where they welcome guests, answer listener questions, and spotlight the “fckry” in any given topic.

This craft show takes place at South Portland High School, and admission is free.

Fruit Bats bring their live show to the State Theatre in Portland, ME. This is an all ages concert.

Punch Brothers bring the Unsung North American Expedition to State Theatre in Portland, Maine. The performance is open to all ages with reserved seating, and ticket prices range from $41 to $66.

Attendees must be 18 or older and have a valid ID for entry. Doors will open before the event begins. Tickets are available through an artist presale and a venue presale, as well as a public onsale.

Big Head Todd and the Monsters bring their Winter Tour 2026 to the State Theatre in Portland. This is an all-ages concert. The performance was moved from an earlier date, and all previously purchased tickets will be honored for the new date.

Kids Con New England brings a family-focused comic convention to DoubleTree by Hilton Portland Maine in South Portland. Meet kid-friendly artists, comic and children’s book creators, middle grade authors, and exhibitors, along with costumed characters inspired by superheroes, princesses, Pokémon, Star Wars, and more. The event features creative workshops, Jedi training, musical performances, magic shows, gaming, a calmer space, an art contest, cosplay contests for kids and families, and a scavenger hunt. Activities and workshops are included with admission and are available on a first come basis until seats or spaces are filled, while supplies last. Children under 5 receive free admission. Discounts for online orders are available for military, seniors, and families purchasing a four-pack. Complimentary swag bags with comics and goodies, plus scavenger hunt prizes, are offered while supplies last. The schedule and exhibitor lineup are subject to change. Tickets are on sale.

Dweezil Zappa presents DZ20: Like Father, Like Son at the State Theatre in Portland, Maine. The performance welcomes attendees of all ages.

Emo Night Karaoke brings a live backing band to Genos Rock Club in Portland, ME, putting attendees on the mic with full production and visuals. A collective of musicians backs each song, including players with experience on Warped Tour and When We Were Young who have toured around the world. Signups are available, and the setlist can be found on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music.

A fall craft fair is taking place. One booth will be personally staffed on Sunday, and the books from that booth will also be available on Saturday.

Presented by State Theatre, An Evening with Goose takes place at Cross Insurance Arena in Portland, ME. This show is open to attendees of all ages.

The War and Treaty brings a live performance to the State Theatre in Portland, Maine. Attendees of any age are welcome, and seating is reserved with ticket prices between $30 and $45.

Safe Haven Ballet presents How the Grinch Stole Christmas as a narrated, interactive ballet for all ages. Follow a solitary figure who attempts to stop the holiday by taking presents and decorations from homes in Whoville on Christmas Eve, then discovers a fuller meaning of the season through humor and romance. The performance blends classical selections with contemporary holiday music and features narration so everyone can follow the plot and fully enjoy the artistry of the professional dancers. The production aims to grow understanding and appreciation of ballet, introduce the community to the artists and the company, and spark interest in learning more about the performing arts in New England. Choreographed by Miranda Bailey. Approximate run time is 95 minutes, including an intermission.

Start your holiday shopping at the Home for the Holidays Craft Show in Scarborough. This two day event offers free admission.

Since 2002, The Walrus has been bringing the music of The Beatles to the stage with care and rock-fueled live energy. Core members Spencer Albee, Zach Jones, Sean Marin, Jon Roods, Anna Lombard, and Andrew Hodgkins honor the originals with close attention while embracing the spirit of a full-throttle performance. All members are active recording and touring artists, and the group has earned praise in multiple glowing articles from Rolling Stoles. This appearance features album-focused sets on Magical Mystery Tour and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, along with a family matinee.