Aside from tangerine sunrises over the ocean, rugged shoreline, and deep pine-scented forests, the inspiration behind adventurous days in Maine are simultaneously fueled by another part of the imagination: what’s next on the menu? To the relief of every traveler, summit-seeker, and paddler’s appetite, the resource-rich state draws creative chefs from around the country and world who participate in food-centric events in Maine. Here is a list of classic cuisine staples and culinary vacations that are not to be missed throughout the year. We hope to see you at the table.
Maine Restaurant Week | Statewide | March 1-12, 2018
Foodies all around Maine look forward to the excitement of Maine Restaurant Week all year long. The even is always in March, breaking up our cold winter and getting us out and about. Participating spots offer up special food menus, and drinks, as a great way to celebrate the many talented chefs, skilled bakers and creative mixologists that work and live in Maine. Check out their site for a list of participating restaurants, including our own Natalie’s Restaurant. Bon appétit!
Salt Water Farm Cooking School | Lincolnville | June – October 2018
During the summer and early fall months, this one of a kind cooking school hosts, a variety of classes and events for cooks at every level. Founded by Annemarie Ahearn on her farm in the heart of the midcoast, she takes a hands-on approach to instill resourcefulness in the kitchen, teaching you techniques to cook instinctually with what’s seasonally available. From pasta-making to pickling, she teaches one-off courses or week-long workshops, all of which take place in an idyllic barn. If you can’t make it to an event, check out her new cookbook, Full Moon Suppers at Salt Water Farm: Recipes from Land and Sea.
Maine Lobster Festival | Rockland | August 1-5, 2018
Okay, yes, this event is touristy but if you love lobster, don’t pass up the opportunity to try this crustation cooked in a variety of ways. Enjoy a freshly caught, freshly prepared lobster while taking in the breeze off Penobscot Bay, partake in cooking contests, shop goods from Maine craftsmen and artists, and much more. The Atwood Lobster Company has exclusively supplied the lobster for this midcoast event since 1991. The festival is a wonderful tradition and a great addition to your list of culinary vacation must-dos.
Harvest on the Harbor | Portland | October 18-21, 2018
Harvest on the Harbor is Portland, Maine’s annual food & spirits festival featuring a creative, diverse, and engaging line up of events. The mission is to help show the diversity of the local food and drink scene, foster an inclusive community of passionate foodies while to giving back to our community through this multi-day celebration. Everything from backyard bbq to craft brews and artisanal chocolate, attendees can sample them all at the heart of the festival and harborside exhibits. Authentic and gourmet products from local farmers, fishermen, and food artisans, along with wine, beer and spirit makers gather under one roof, so to speak. Musical performances, demos, beer crawls, and wine soirees, are scheduled throughout the weekend.
There are food events popping up in Maine throughout the year, so odds are that if you’re visiting during high season, there will be plenty of culinary delights and liquid events to enjoy!