The people of Maine are proud of their statehood. In the true New England spirit, they are constantly in search of reasons to celebrate. For this reason, no matter when or where you visit in Maine, you will be apt to find yourself in the middle of one of the many fun and exciting Maine events. Some of these celebrations commemorate historical events in Maine, while others are just for fun.
While there are many Maine events to choose from, the Country Fair is a popular favorite. These fun-filled Maine events are particularly popular with visitors who live in urban environments, and enjoy the opportunity for a hands-on experience with animals they do not find in the city parks.
You can find country fairs throughout the entire state of Maine. However, the Fryeburg Fair, which is usually held in October, is by all means, second to none. The Fryeburg Fair had humble beginnings. Back in March of 1851, some local farmers and merchants got together to display their produce, cattle and wares to the community. Eventually, the Fryeburg Fair became Maine’s largest agricultural festival.
The Fryeburg Fair runs for six days. It features live music, harness racing, a petting zoo and presentations by the 4-H Club. If you have a weakness for unbearable cuteness, be sure to visit the bunny barn and the sheep barn.
When you tire of the farmlands, you might want to attend the Maine Lobster Festival, which is held in August. The very first Maine Lobster Festival was on August 6th, 1947 in Camden Maine. For the price of one dollar, patrons were treated to all the lobster they could eat, along with a parade, door prizes and evening entertainment. Although tickets for the Maine Lobster Festival now cost well over a dollar, the event has grown significantly. It now features a 10k race, as well as a Sea Goddess Pageant.
In addition to events and festivals that revolve around farm animals and creatures of the sea, there are a number of historical events in Maine. For example, if you find yourself in Bath, Maine around New Year’s Eve., you may want to participate in the Paul Revere Bell Ringing. Wait a minute? A Paul Revere Bell Ringing in Maine? Is this revisionist history? Not quite! In 1802, a bell was cast by Paul Revere in Boston. The good folks of Bath needed a bell for their meeting house. Thus, they took up a collection and purchased the bell. It now stands proudly atop the Bath City Hall. Every New Years, the town gathers by the bell and sings this song to the tune of Auld Lang Syne:
Old Paul Revere he made a bell
And it to Bath did come.
From Meeting House to City Hall
Since 1803 has hung.
1803 they hung the bell
In 1803 (18 0-0- 3)
From Meeting House to City Hall
Since 1803 has hung.
Join Main Street Bath and sing a song
This day to celebrate.
It’s 12 o’clock – 12 hours too soon
We did not want to wait.
From 1803 has hung the bell
Since 1803
From Meeting House to City Hall
Since 1803 has hung.
Speaking of Paul Revere, another one of the popular
historical events in Maine is also one of the unique Maine
State holidays. Although April 19th is just a regular
day for most of the country, the people of Maine and Massachusetts
celebrate Patriot’s Day, which commemorates the Battle
of Lexington and Concord. A Patriot’s Day Parade is held
in Ogunquit.
