The Winter season can feel long in Maine. Snowy days are great, it’s the freezing rain and gray afternoons that make it seem to last a lifetime. Thankfully there is never a shortage of activities to keep your spirits bright! Whether you live in the area or are visiting for a long weekend there is always something to do in Maine. (updated for 2023)
National Toboggan Championships
Toboggans are crazy scary to me. We had one when I was a kid and there was always the fear (sometimes warranted) that the long, wooden sled would tip or hit something on the way down. They can be difficult to stop, especially with 3 bodies on them! This doesn’t stop the teams at the National Toboggan Championship though. Teams (maybe yours, but not mine) vie for a winning time in several categories. These include two person, three person, four person and experimental (what the heck does that mean?!?!?) events. Costumes are encouraged and they can be wild. Whether you’re a competitor or a spectator, this is always a fun event.
February 3-5, Camden Snow Bowl
Portland 207 Day
This year is the 2nd annual Portland 207 Day. Yay! It looks like a wonderful way to celebrate being a Mainer and Maine. The event centers around a free, two day scavenger hunt during which you’ll get to explore the city by completing tasks, learning a little history, and taking selfies with Portland landmarks. I love a scavenger hunt and this looks like so much fun, and a great way to explore Portland.
February 4-5, Downtown Portland
Somerset SnowFest
Somerset SnowFest is full of winter activities like an ice fishing derby, a kite flying derby, a winter triathlon and downhill kayak racing! The schedule is jam packed with something for everyone. Horse drawn sleigh rides, a scavenger hunt and the beer garden is more my speed than the kayak race 🙂
February 18-26, Somerset County (check Schedule for specifics)
Ice Fest- Belfast
The Belfast Ice Fest kicks off with the Taste of Belfast at the Waldo County Shrine Club from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. If you attend the kickoff you get a keepsake mug that can be used during the weekend. This fest has everything from ice sculpture contests to snowshoeing There will also be ice bars where you can have a super cold adult beverage in between fun activities.
February 24 – 26, Downtown Belfast
Carnaval Maine
This will be the third year for Carnaval Maine. but this year will be a little bit different. Hosted by DiMillo’s On the Water, events include ice sculpting, plenty of live music, face painting, children’s theater and of course excellent food and local beers.
March 8-12, DiMillo’s On the Water, Portland.
Have something to add to the list? A few of my favorites are not taking place this year or were much earlier than usual so let me know!
