Events in Portland today

This weekend workshop is designed for female-identifying sea kayakers at the novice to intermediate level who want to feel confident, safe, and self-reliant on the water. Participants build a strong foundation with effective paddling strokes and techniques for power and efficiency, practice rescue skills and safety protocols, and deepen their understanding of ocean conditions and dynamics. The sessions also cover navigation and how to plan trips. The setting is welcoming and upbeat, encouraging participants to take on new challenges with steady support so they can broaden their sea kayaking adventures.

A 45-minute, all-levels yoga class at Toad&Co Portland supports the Dempsey Center’s therapy dog program. It offers a welcoming space to move, breathe, and reconnect with yourself and the community. Expect an inclusive, well-rounded practice with mindful movement, breathwork, and restful moments, and there may be a few special canine guests. This pay-what-you-can session has a suggested donation of $15, and 100 percent of contributions go directly to Dempsey Dogs, whose work brings comfort, connection, and healing to individuals and families facing cancer. After class, stick around to connect with others, enjoy coffee, learn more about the Dempsey Center, and receive 30 percent off in-store. Take care of yourself while helping provide care for others.

Settle in for casual Magic Commander games with fellow players in a friendly, low pressure setting. Open play is free, and you can stay the whole time or just stop by for a bit. Participants who play and sign in using the Magic Companion app will receive a free Magic promo.

Team Envol hosts a free, interactive swimrun clinic at East End Beach designed to help athletes prepare for the ÖTILLÖ Casco Bay Swimrun. Led by Envol coach Marcus Barton, it welcomes all abilities with no membership required. The session covers race strategy, gear, transitions, and efficient techniques for both running and swimming. Participants should arrive in swimrun gear, and bringing a friend and questions is encouraged. Expect practical tips from experienced Team Envol members, a light pre-race workout, and opportunities to meet fellow swimrunners. The clinic lasts about 60 minutes including transition practice and is kept at a super easy pace. An advanced option is available for experienced participants. There is time afterward for packet pickup.

At Thompson’s Point, this event welcomes families by offering free entry for children three and younger. Public ticket sales are announced.

Presented by Outback Presents, Kathleen Madigan brings the Flying Cats & Marching Armadillos Tour to the State Theatre in Portland, Maine. This performance welcomes attendees of all ages.

More shows will be announced soon. Check back for updates as details are released.

A night of dancing takes place every Saturday.

Limitless Wrestling brings the 2026 Vacationland Cup tournament to the Portland Expo, presented by Bull Moose. ECW legend and TNA Hall of Famer RHYNO is confirmed for his Limitless debut. Announced entrants include The Spark Jada Stone, plus either 23 HAZARD or Aiden Aggro. A special meet and greet is available before the event, and tickets are on sale.

Catch comedian Kathleen Madigan live for her Flying Cats & Marching Armadillos Tour at State Theatre in Portland. The show is a stand-up set from one of the most successful road comics, featuring her sharp, carefully crafted joke writing and storytelling.

Legendary New Hampshire rock band Say Zuzu returns to Portland for an all-ages show at Bayside Bowl with special guest Whitney Walker. Say Zuzu emerged in the early 90s alt-country movement that also produced acts like the Old 97s and Wilco, toured extensively across the U.S. and Europe, and later reunited with label head George Fontaine to sign with Strolling Bones Records, resulting in the retrospective Here Again and No Time to Lose, the band’s first new album in nearly twenty years. Whitney Walker, a critically acclaimed alt-psych-freak-folk songwriter on RascalZ RecordZ, has been touring behind a debut album and a recent EP, with a third studio release titled Blood Harmony forthcoming and ongoing collaborations that include baritone saxophonist Dana Colley and producer Dan Capaldi. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

This SwimRun weaves across the Casco Bay Islands, pairing saltwater swims with runs over rugged shoreline. Expect shifting tides, island to island crossings, scrambles over rocks, and views of historic landmarks, all set against the distinctive character of Maine’s East Coast. Open to solo athletes and teams, it is recognized as the birthplace of the first official SwimRun in America and still reflects the spirit of where it all began.

Shalom Sunday is a summer community gathering in the park featuring complimentary bagels and coffee, time to connect with TBE staff members, and playful activities for families. A designated space is set aside for babies and toddlers two and under to enjoy together. Bagels are provided by Rose Foods while supplies last.

Prioritize personal protection with a comprehensive course designed to build legal knowledge and confidence for responsible concealed carry. Participants receive the certificate needed to apply for a Maine Concealed Handgun Permit. Instruction covers handgun basics and shooting fundamentals, strategies for avoiding conflict and improving situational awareness, the psychology of violent encounters, and the legal aspects of using deadly force, including what to do in the aftermath. Home security and home defense are discussed, along with gear and gadgets for effective concealed carry. A live Q&A with USCCA Certified Instructors is included. The course takes place at Cabela's in Scarborough, Maine. Registration is handled by Cabela's.

Walk & Roll is a weekly neighborhood stroll where participants decide the route together, zig and zag through town, and head back to a small park. It centers on friendly company and is open to people of all ability levels.

Join Guster’s Adam Gardner for a screening of the documentary Antimiki about a trip to the Peruvian Amazon, where he and his wife lived with and learned from indigenous community leaders. The film explores life-and-death struggles tied to illegal logging and the connections between music and the people sharing those stories. The screening runs about 30 minutes, followed by a Q&A. Doors open at 2:00 PM.

Experience a weekly rooftop celebration of reggae, dancehall, and sound system culture on the Bayside Bowl rooftop. It begins with a Caribbean cookout, flows into a sound system warm up, then builds into a high energy party as selectors keep the music moving. Expect flavorful food, cold drinks, and a welcoming community vibe. Admission is free early, with a $10 cover later in the evening.

Set sail for an unforgettable wine experience in Portland, Maine. You’ll cruise through Casco Bay’s scenic waters with views of lighthouses, historic forts, islands, and waterways, guided by sommelier Erica Archer. During the voyage, you’ll explore five South African wines, learn about the regions and grape varieties behind them, and build skills for tasting, evaluating, and pairing wines. A box of cheeses, cured meats, and snacks is included, and guests must be 21 or older.

This three day pass for Guster On The Ocean grants access to three performances, beginning at State Theatre and continuing with two shows at Thompson's Point. One purchase covers entry to all three dates.

See Vanna live at Aura in Portland. The show is scheduled for the evening, so come ready for a great night of music.

LeMaire Lee takes the stage at Empire Comedy Club for a stand-up performance. The Austin-based comedian, writer, and creator was born in Detroit and first leaned on humor as a way to protect himself in a family where jokes were part of daily life. That perspective, rooted in finding laughter during tough times, grew as he climbed the Philadelphia scene and earned recognition as an emerging act. He co-hosts the podcast Panties in the Mouth, also known as PITM, with fellow comedians and close friends Andy Malafarina and Nate Marshall, and he is a producer on Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast.

Rabbi Chaim Litvin, known as the Bourbon Rabbi, leads an evening that pairs a guided tasting with rich storytelling. As the founder of the Bourbon Rabbi brand, he has shared this experience in communities across the United States and abroad, bringing industry knowledge and a passion for uncovering the Jewish narrative within America’s signature whiskey. Through a selection of premium bourbons, he explores how the spirit evolved, the meaningful role Jewish contributors played in shaping the industry, and the connection between bourbon, kosher practice, and Jewish tradition. The program blends history, humor, and Torah insights into an engaging experience for dedicated bourbon fans as well as anyone interested in a distinctive night out.

Deep Blue C Studio Orchestra performs at Vinegar Hill Music Theatre in Arundel, Maine. This event features the ensemble in a live concert at the venue.

Brady McDonald, his family, and crew bring the Zero to 100 Wishes journey to Portland, continuing a nationwide effort to run a 50K in every state over 50 consecutive days to raise $1 million for Make-A-Wish. This stop features a free, informal community run and walk that welcomes everyone. Participants may choose any distance, including 1 mile, 5K, 10K, a half marathon, or the full 50K. Families and flags are welcome, and you do not need to be a runner to participate. Cheering along the route is encouraged. The planned meeting spot is Back Cove Trail. Attendance is free, and donations benefiting Make-A-Wish are appreciated but never required.

A four day camp themed around Wicked invites kids to dive into dance, art, and a little stage magic. Participants will explore music, movement, and imagination while preparing for a final day showcase for family and friends. Throughout the week, campers learn routines inspired by the theme, work on creative art projects and crafts, practice character play and storytelling, and build teamwork, confidence, and self expression through rehearsals that lead to the closing performance. No prior dance experience is required, making it welcoming to beginners as well as those who already love to move and create. Families can choose half day or full day enrollment, with pricing set at $145 for a half day and $260 for a full day. Aftercare can be arranged upon request, and a Klarna payment option is available. Capacity is limited.

Books-A-Million South Portland teams up with Altrusa of Portland for a summer book drive that puts brand new books into the hands of children across Greater Portland. At checkout, shoppers can choose to purchase a book that will be donated through Altrusa for local kids. Books for all ages are appreciated, with the greatest need for titles suited to grades K through 2. Altrusa volunteers plan to be onsite on select Saturdays and Sundays to share information and answer questions.

This family musical brings Disney and Pixar’s Finding Nemo to the stage in a streamlined 60-minute format filled with music, color, and larger-than-life undersea characters. After young Nemo is taken far from home, his father Marlin sets out across the ocean, meeting sharks, laid-back sea turtles, and the unforgettable Regal Blue Tang, Dory. The story emphasizes bravery, resilience, and believing in yourself through upbeat songs and vivid staging. Tickets are $22 per person. Members receive $5 off per ticket for any show in Maddy’s Theatre. The performance runs 60 minutes with no intermission. Stage credits include book, music, and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, a book adaptation by Lindsay Anderson, and music and orchestrations adapted and arranged by Myna Conn. It is based on the 2003 Disney/Pixar film written by Andrew Stanton, Bob Person, and David Reynolds, and directed by Andrew Stanton. Presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Matilda the Musical Jr. brings the beloved Roald Dahl story to life with an energetic, feel-good production filled with catchy songs, memorable characters, and uplifting moments. It’s an inspiring show about a clever young girl who uses her wit and courage to stand up for what’s right, proving that even the smallest person can make a big difference.

Learn how a devoted response team cares for seals throughout the Gulf of Maine. Representatives from Marine Mammals of Maine will explain natural seal behavior, the warning signs that an animal may be in distress, and the steps their staff and volunteers take when a rescue is needed. This program takes place at the Portland Public Library - Riverton Branch. Advance registration is recommended.

Enjoy a public bingo night with free parking. Food, 50/50, and pull-tabs are available for purchase. It costs $30 to play all night and includes two winner take all games.

The Maine Irish Heritage Center presents a community storytelling gathering that revives the old ceili house spirit, where neighbors once shared tales, songs, poems, music, and local history. Hosted by Cathy Furness, this outdoor event welcomes anyone who wishes to tell a story, recite a poem, sing a song, or simply listen in a friendly circle. Pieces should be 10 minutes or less, and a timekeeper will help everything flow smoothly. Kindness and inclusivity are essential, so hate speech is not permitted. Stories do not need to be Irish, as the focus is on celebrating the oral traditions of all cultures. The event takes place at Lambs in South Portland, a neighborhood bar and event space on the Fore River offering a full bar, light bites, and generous seating indoors and outdoors. Aligned with MIHC’s mission, the gathering fosters connection while supporting local businesses and shared community spaces.

A community run with Runaways Run Club sets out from the parking area by Edward Payson Park near Baxter Boulevard and follows the Back Cove Trail. The route is a mostly flat, looped, non-technical gravel path of about 3.6 miles, starting and finishing at the same spot. All paces are welcome, although there are no designated pace groups, and participants are encouraged to be comfortable running one to two miles without difficulty. If you are feeling unwell or have Covid, please do not attend. Running involves inherent risks, and taking part indicates acceptance of those risks.

Sea kayakers and SUP paddlers gather for an early morning community paddle from Portland Paddle’s site at East End Beach in Portland. This outing is intended for those who feel confident and comfortable navigating Casco Bay. Participation is free for Portland Paddle members and for anyone bringing their own vessel, while rentals are available for a $30 fee. Participants using their own kayak or SUP do not need to register in advance.

Plunge into a seaside-themed gymnastics journey where Super Kids set out across the seafloor to find a long-lost Mermaid and Merman palace. Along the way, participants practice flips, tumbling, and balance while imagining coral reefs, sea caverns, and shimmering waves. The quest includes discovering hidden treasures and creating memories as big as the ocean. Participants must be restroom independent. Membership is not required.

A summer session for skaters who love the ice and want to explore synchronized skating. Participants skate with the team to experience, learn, and practice synchro elements, offering a friendly way to get on the ice and discover what team skating is like.

The Lincoln Park Summer Concert Series returns with an outdoor evening of live music at historic Lincoln Park in Portland, Maine. This installment features Memphis Lightning, an international act with an energetic blend of roots, blues, and rock and roll. Pack a blanket and enjoy the music with friends, family, or your pup in a welcoming community setting. Concerts are weather dependent. Admission is free and open to everyone.

Challenge your brain with trivia hosted by @thetunuguru, featuring a carefully curated blend of general knowledge and music questions. When the weather is favorable, the event moves to the patio for an outdoor setting.

Free community concerts fill the season as the Sounds of Summer Concert Series brings live music to the park. This performance features Jeezum Crow, part of a lineup that also includes Erica Brown and the Bluegrass Connection, the Tom DiMenna Duo, and Primo Cubano. Settle in on the grass with a blanket and a picnic to enjoy a warm evening with neighbors and friends. Weather updates and any postponement announcements are shared on Facebook and Instagram, with rain dates planned for the following Tuesday. Support from Kennebec Savings Bank helps make these live shows possible and keeps programming in Payson Park free.

This session pairs country swing instruction with social dancing. Admission is $10 and includes a $5 food credit. It is a chance to pick up new steps and spend time on the dance floor.

This weekly country swing gathering features an all-levels class followed by social dancing. The lesson welcomes both beginners and experienced dancers, then the floor opens for freestyle practice and fun. No partner or prior experience is required. Admission is $10. Held at Zero Bar & Grille.

Head into the marsh on a family-friendly walk to search for plants and wildlife through playful, discovery-based activities that engage all five senses. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Pricing is $22 per nonmember family and $18 per member family, based on two adults and two children. Additional participants are $10 per adult and $5 per child, with a maximum of $30 for a nonmember family and $25 for a member family. Maine Audubon works to make its programs inclusive and accessible. To request accommodations, email events@maineaudubon.org, and submitting requests at least seven days before the program begins helps ensure needs can be met.

Enjoy a series of family-friendly outings in Gorham that welcome all ages, with activities especially geared toward families with children in grades K through 5. Each adventure covers an easy one to two miles on local paths and preserves, with destinations rotating among Claire Drew Trails, Hawke's Preserve, West Sky Preserve, Tannery Brook, Little River Preserve, Gambo Preserve in Shaw Park, Cummings Preserve, and the Cross Town Trail. One week features a mountain biking session on the Weeks Road Trails. Events proceed in typical weather and pause only for lightning.

The Locker Project will visit the Main Library to share fresh local produce and other nourishing foods with anyone who comes by. It offers a welcoming opportunity to pick up healthy ingredients to take home.

Texas Roadhouse hosts a Dine to Donate event benefiting the Prestin family. When guests dine in or dine out and present the event flyer, either digitally or on paper, 10 percent of the bill will be directed to Ariella's Fund at Annie's Angels. Ariella is currently at Boston Children's Hospital awaiting another surgery, and her parents are traveling between Maine and Boston to be with her. The event also features raffle items, baked goods, and more.

A monthly letter writing meet-up at Portland Public Library, Riverton Branch brings neighbors together to put pen to paper. Inspired by the epistolary novel The Correspondent by Virgina Evans, each session highlights a theme, offers gentle encouragement, and keeps the experience fun. Basic supplies are available, and participants may bring a favorite pen, stationery, stamps, or other items to personalize their letters. Space is limited, so registration is required for the series.

Take a midweek pause in Payson Park with an outdoor yoga session that brings movement, fresh air, and a sense of community. The practice welcomes all experience levels, offering plenty of options so you can move in a way that suits you. Settle in, breathe more fully, clear your mind, and share time in nature with others. Please bring a mat or blanket, a water bottle, and anything else you need to stay comfortable outside. Cap it off by relaxing in the grass for savasana, a simple pleasure that can make the day feel brighter.

Lindsay of Still Peaking joins this monthly ride in Portland, Maine in collaboration with Allspeed and Wild Rye. Each session begins with a short skills refresher to improve confidence and technique on the trail, and the ride winds down with a relaxed chill and grill hosted by Allspeed Cyclery. This month also features a presentation from Desirae LeBlanc, owner of Cadence Pelvic Health & Wellness. The ride is open to all bodies, abilities, and fitness levels. Riders under 18 must participate with a parent or legal guardian.

Enjoy casual Magic Commander games with fellow players in a relaxed setting. Open play is free at the gaming and event center. Stay for the whole session or drop in briefly, since come and go play is welcome. Participants who play and sign in through the Magic Companion app receive a free Magic promo.

A weekly Pokémon Trading Card Game league welcomes players for relaxed, friendly matches with others. Drop in for a short visit or stay for the entire session, the pace is casual and flexible. Participating players who are registered League members can receive a free Pokémon prize pack. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

This weekly cribbage tournament features singles play in a double-elimination format. The entry fee is $10, and payouts are awarded to first, second, and third place. Mugging is not permitted to maintain fair play.

An evening of PHRF sailboat racing associated with CYC takes place at the CYC PHRF Start Line. This midweek event focuses on handicap competition using the PHRF system.

A participatory improv session focused on playful games and collaboration. This is not a performance to watch, and there is no audience. Both first-timers and experienced improvisers are encouraged to take part, with the freedom to contribute at a level that feels comfortable. Facilitators rotate from session to session, so activities vary. You might try a quick character burst inspired by a whimsical name, a two-person scene built from a suggested location, a Shark Tank style round where a posed problem leads to improvised judges, contestants, and inventions, or a town hall scenario where everyone portrays a character weighing in on a community issue. Attendance often lands around 15 participants, though group size can range from about 7 to 25. Afterward, there is an optional hangout at The Great Lost Bear, a nearby restaurant and bar. Pay what you can, with a suggested contribution of $5. The meeting space is upstairs at the Woodfords Club. After entering, take the door just ahead and slightly to the right rather than the large room on the first floor. Parking is available in lots on both sides of the Woodfords Club.

Dead Wednesdays with A Band Beyond Description is a 21+ live music night at Portland House of Music. Doors open at 7:00 PM, and the music starts at 8:00 PM.

Designed for preschoolers ages 3 to 5, this interactive story time pairs early learning with hands-on creativity. Children will listen to a marsh-themed tale read aloud, then create a related craft. Each child must be accompanied by an adult. Pricing is $12 per nonmember child and $10 per child for members. Maine Audubon works to make programs inclusive and accessible for all. To request accommodations, email events@maineaudubon.org, and submitting requests at least seven days before the start can help ensure needs are met.

This drop-in program welcomes children of all ages along with their caregivers. Each session features a mix of read-aloud stories, sing-alongs, and playful movement to make storytime fun and engaging. Some sessions may include special guests or seasonal activities.

Settle in for a narrated journey on the Maine Narrow Gauge as the train makes a 40 minute round trip along Casco Bay. Ride in unique, carefully restored passenger cars and take in the views throughout the trip.

Board the Joseph S. Kennedy for a 90 minute sightseeing cruise across Casco Bay, gliding past storied forts, classic lighthouses, and island vistas. Enhance the trip with optional food, either a Maine lobster roll with chips for $40 or a fresh summer salad for $16, and choose from local beer, wine, and canned cocktails available to purchase onboard. Well suited for both locals and visitors, this relaxed outing blends striking coastal scenery with a taste of local flavor.

A free trivia event at the Allagash Bungalow features question, photo, and music rounds. Teams of up to six compete for prizes awarded to first, second, and third place.

Enjoy live music from Ben Kilcollins.

Louisiana fiddler Mitch Reed teams up with bluegrass veteran Carter Logan for a free live performance at OTTO. The music travels through Creole, Appalachian, bluegrass, folk, and Irish traditions, weaving roots sounds into a lively, memorable set. This is part of a monthly series.

Brandi Carlile brings her Human Tour to Cross Insurance Arena. Purchases are limited to eight tickets per order. Several ways to buy are available, including a public onsale, a range of presales such as Bramily, Brandi Carlile, Spotify, Support, Local, and Amex, and VIP package options. Two dollars from every ticket benefits the Looking Out Foundation, established in 2008 by multi-Grammy winner Brandi Carlile. The foundation harnesses the power of music to uplift people who are often unheard, directing resources to social justice and humanitarian work across the United States and around the world. It collaborates with fans, nonprofits, and female LGBTQ+ owned businesses to turn songs into meaningful action, responds to evolving needs, and serves a broad spectrum of communities. Its campaigns are powered by dedicated donors and fans.

A 90-minute sunset cruise on Casco Bay aboard the historic vessel Joseph S. Kennedy offers sweeping views of lighthouses, historic forts, and local marine life. The ship’s own long history adds character to the trip, creating an easygoing setting for time with friends. Local beer, wine, and canned cocktails are available for purchase on board, and guests may bring their own snacks. It is a relaxed outing meant for unwinding and making lasting memories on the water.

Brandi Carlile appears alongside Jensen McRae at Cross Insurance Arena in Portland, Maine. This event brings both artists together on the same stage in an arena setting.

At Stevens Square Community Center, this opening-night concert surveys three centuries of chamber music. It begins with J. S. Bach's Chaconne from the Partita for Violin No. 2, a single movement that holds a vast emotional arc. Charles Loeffler's Deux Rhapsodies follows in a version featuring soprano saxophone instead of oboe, lending a velvety, impressionistic hue. The evening concludes with Johannes Brahms's Piano Quartet No. 1 in G minor, Op. 25, music that moves from turbulence to tenderness toward a stirring finish. Program and artists are subject to change.

The Amazing Acro-Cats return to The Hill Arts with a lively showcase starring trained rescue house cats. Across roughly 90 minutes, these former orphans, rescues, and strays ride skateboards, leap through hoops, ring bells, balance on balls, and show off athletic tricks. The grand finale features Tuna and the Rock Cats, an all-cat band on guitar, drums, and piano, joined by the Jazz Cats on saxophone, trumpet, and clarinet. The tour supports Rock Cats Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to cat welfare, rescue, adoption, and positive reinforcement training, which has placed hundreds of cats and kittens in homes since 2009. A portion of ticket sales benefits local rescue partners, who will have a table at the event for those interested in learning how to help cats in the community. The Acro-Cats have been seen on Netflix’s Cat People, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl, CBS News Sunday Morning, PBS Nova’s Cat Tales, and the podcast This Past Weekend with Theo Von. The performance runs about an hour and a half without an intermission, and a meet and greet follows the show. Guests may step in and out during the performance, and are asked to ensure doors fully close for the cats’ safety. All seating is reserved, with premium front rows first for the meet and greet and including a Purrbill, while other sections include meet and greet access afterward in row order and do not include a Purrbill.

Everybody Knows: A Tribute to Neil Young is a live tribute show celebrating the music of Neil Young, performing at Vinegar Hill Music Theatre.

Comics step to the mic cold, with nothing prepared and no clue what awaits. Each set is determined on the spot by one of six formats, so a performer might banter with the room, deliver a sharpened five-minute routine, draw a surprise topic to tackle, show off their best impersonations, venture into darker material, or be handed a completely different curveball. One stage brings together six distinct approaches, and the surprise factor drives the night from start to finish.