THINGS TO DO IN THE MOUNT DESERT ISLAND REGION THIS WEEK
And in the near future.
The Bar Harbor Story is generously sponsored by Thrive Juice Bar & Kitchen.
THINGS TO DO
It’s our weekly round-up, and we may have missed some things, so apologies! If you have something you’d like in here, please let us know.
Also, you may have to click through to see everything. There are so many things that this email is a bit long for a lot of inboxes.
We hope you have some great adventures this week!
To check out our news stories and briefs from the past week, click on the archive section, and you’ll see them in chronological order.
WHERE CAN YOU EAT?
You can check out the list of all the restaurants at our new site, ACADIA ADVENTURES.
We’re still building out the site, but the restaurants are here! If you’re an owner/manager/employee of a restaurant that isn’t on the list yet, please let us know and we’ll get you there.
THE ABBE!
For a list of Abbe events, click here.
ACADIA CHAMBER
For a list of Acadia Chamber events, click here.
ACADIA NATIONAL PARK
For a list of events at the park, you can visit the National Park Service’s calendar or Ranger Programs web pages.
ACADIA REPRERTORY THEATRE
THE ANNEX
Located in Bar Harbor with music nightly.
ARTEMIS GALLERY
For a list of openings!
ARTWAVES CLASSES AND EVENTS
ArtWaves often has classes, a variety every week. For the updated selection, check out its website here.
BAR HARBOR CHAMBER
For Bar Harbor Chamber’s calendar, click here.
BAR HARBOR HISTORICAL SOCIETY
For a full list of Bar Harbor Historical Society, events, click through here.
THE BAR HARBOR MUSIC FESTIVAL
Here’s a list of all the events.
BEECH HILL FARM
THE COLLEGE OF THE ATLANTIC
A list of events is here. Make sure to choose “open to the public” on the side bar.
The 2025 College of the Atlantic Summer Institute: Path Breaking celebrates exceptional individuals whose work and beliefs have changed how we see the world. Brilliant, brave, and defiant, institute speakers exemplify the power of commitment and the need to seek new solutions. The institute includes 11 sessions over five days, July 28–August 1. The sessions are free, but registration is required at coa.edu/si. Registration opens June 1.
CRITERION THEATRE
For a list of events, click through here.
Full Show Schedule
7/12 David Sedaris
7/13 Jammy Buffet
7/24 Lucius
8/16 Chris Thile
8/22 Pink Talking Fish - A Fusion of Pink Floyd, Talking Heads & Phish
8/23 Orleans (Quartet)
8/27 Asleep At The Wheel
8/28 Barrington Levy
9/13 Livingston Taylor
DOWNEAST PILATES
FRIENDS OF ACADIA
For a full list of Friends of Acadia events, click through here.
EVENTS AT THE GILLEY
For a full list of Gilley events, click here.
THE FINBACK ALE HOUSE!
The Finback usually has local musicians, open mic nights and karaoke all summer long. Its Instagram is here. A typical line-up looks like the one below. Usually, the Finback updates its list on Tuesdays.
THE GRAND THEATER (In Ellsworth, but by request)
For a list of Grand events, click here.
HARBOR HOUSE
For a full list of events, click here for programs, click here.
HEALTHY ACADIA EVENTS
For a list of events, click here.
IVY MANOR MUSIC
Music on the lawn.
JESUP EVENTS
For a full list of Jesup Memorial Library events, click through to its calendar here.
LAND AND GARDEN PRESERVE
For a full list of Land and Garden Preserve events, click through here.
MAINE GRANITE INDUSTRY HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM
The museum is open from Tuesday through Sunday from 10 to 4 through October 31
The museum believes on hands-on learning. A list of programs is here.
MDI HIGH SCHOOL
A list of events is here.
MOUNT DESERT ISLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY
A list of events is here.
MOUNT DESERT ISLAND ADULT EDUCATION
A list of classes and events is here.
MDI YMCA
Events are here and the gym schedule is here. You can peruse its website for other schedules. The fitness schedule and youth programs are below.
THE NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE SCHEDULE
The calendar is here.
NORTHEAST HARBOR LIBRARY
A list of events is here.
REEL PIZZA
To see what’s playing, click here.
SANDBAR COTTAGE INN
SEAL COVE AUTO MUSEUM!
SOMESVILLE LIBRARY
A list of events is here.
SOUTHWEST HARBOR HISTORICAL SOCIETY PROGRAMS
SOUTHWEST HARBOR LIBRARY
A list of events is here.
Anniversary Celebrations for 130 years of Service to the Community from 1895-2025
Pre-Celebration Week Events – Richard Russo Book Groups & Screenings
Featured writer Russo, who will speak Thursday, July 24, has written two memoirs and ten novels, most set in fictional small towns in New England. They include Straight Man, Bridge of Sighs, and three books set in upstate New York and referred to as the North Bath series: Nobody’s Fool, Everybody’s Fool and Somebody’s Fool.
Wednesday, June 11th – Empire Falls Book Group, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, June 25th –Empire Falls Screening Part 1, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, July 2nd – Empire Falls Screening Part 2, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, July 16th – Life and Art Book Group, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
St. Saviour's Folk Music Series
TIMBERLAND ACRES CAMPGROUND
TREMONT HISTORICAL SOCIETY COUNTRY STORE AND MUSEUM IN BASS HARBOR
Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday afternoons from 1–4 p.m., July through Columbus Day, or by appointment.
For more information, click here.
VOLTA!
Volta, in Trenton, has a ton of things always going on. You can check that out here.
WENDELL GILLEY MUSEUM!
The museum is full of art and craft and exhibit. You can check out its events here.
ALL MONTH/ONGOING
ALWAYS THERE
Join Maine Seacoast Mission for "Always There: 120 Years of Maine Seacoast Mission" during the month of July at the Northeast Harbor Library.
This October, the Mission will celebrate our 120 Anniversary and the exhibit will feature information about the Mission's history providing services including healthcare, education, and community building. There will be historical photos, boat models, nautical artifacts, and much more on display covering the Mission’s twelve decades.
PRODUCE EXCHANGE!
FRIENDS OF ACADIA SPONSORED: Mary Louise Pierson photography retrospective at The Gallery at Somes Sound
Friends of Acadia and The Gallery at Somes Sound invite you to a special reception on Sunday, July 6 from 4–6 PM to honor the lives and legacies of Mary Louise Pierson (1954–2024), acclaimed photographer, and Ann Rockefeller Roberts (1934–2024), author and activist.
The event will open a commemorative exhibit of Pierson’s photography, featuring works from Acadia National Park and the Rockefeller Family Home, Kykuit. The exhibit will run through July 31. All are welcome to attend and reflect on the enduring impact of these remarkable women. A portion of proceeds from the exhibit will benefit Friends of Acadia.
MOUNT DESERT ISLAND HOSPITAL ART SHOW
The MDI Hospital Cafeteria is hosting a solo exhibition by Liz Cutler, titled “Paintings of Monhegan.” The show runs through the end of July.
MONDAY, JULY 7
JULY 7 - STOP MAKING SENSE
JULY 7 and JULY 14 - READ TO ARGOS
RANGER READ ALOUD
LEGO CLUB!
Divine Play Yoga at the Neighborhood House
Mon/Wed; 9:00-10:00 a.m.
Cost: $15/class
with Mike Bouscaren
Register: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=19801383
Monday events via the Bar Harbor Chamber:
TUESDAY, JULY 8
Coffee & Conversation: Wave Making: Inspired by Impact
July 8, 2025
9:30 a.m.
Coffee & Conversation: Wave Making: Inspired by Impact
College of the Atlantic
Davis Center for Human Ecology
105 Eden Street
Bar Harbor
Free; registration required
coa.edu/calendar
EVENING AT THE MUSEUM
National Parks Book Launch Event
NORTHEAST HARBOR—On Tuesday, July 8 at 5:30 p.m. the Northeast Harbor Library and Friends of Acadia will host a book launch event for author Steve Kemp’s newest work: An Exaltation of Parks: John D. Rockefeller Jr.'s Crusade to Save America's Wonderlands.
America’s national parks are facing unprecedented challenges. With visitation pressures mounting and the National Park Service struggling to keep up, author and former park ranger Steve Kemp looks toward one exceptionally effective historical example of conservation philanthropy and park building—the collaboration between John D. Rockefeller Jr. and NPS legends Stephen Mather, Horace Albright, and Arno Cammerer.
Books will be available for sale and signing. Register at nehlibrary.org/events or by calling 207-276-3333.
ROOTS OF RENEWAL!
Roots of Renewal, a new short documentary by Sustainable Harvest International, shows the critical role of small farms globally. It will be screened at the Gates Auditorium at College Of the Atlantic on Tuesday, July 8 at 5:30 p.m. during an event that will include conversation with people behind the film, refreshments and opportunities to donate. More info: Florence Reed 207-266-6864
To attend/register for the July 8 event.
COFFEE AND CONVERSATION - 9:30 a.m.
STORY TIME AND NATURE JOURNALING
PIES FOR PROGRESS
S
TRIVIA AT THE LINKS
OPEN TABLE MDI!
Open Table MDI is at 116 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor.
PLAY DOUGH PLAY TIME
THE WAY OF BEING
Move Free Run Club
BAR HARBOR—The runs take place every week of the year and meet Tuesdays at 6 p.m. from the Bar Harbor Village Green and Sundays at 7:30 a.m. from Choco Latte.
The Move Free Run Club (Acadia Chapter) meets every Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. from the Bar Harbor Village Green and every Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m. from Choco Latte! Hope to meet more members of the community!
TWO SHOES LINE DANCING!
Tuesday events via the Chamber:
WEDNESDAY, JULY 9
Friends of Acadia Annual Meeting
Join Friends of Acadia for the organization's annual meeting on Wednesday, July 9, at 4 p.m. at the Bar Harbor Club to celebrate last year's collective accomplishments and hear updates about what’s happening in the park. The annual meeting is an opportunity to gather in a room full of people who love Acadia National Park and to celebrate amazing work and the people who make it all happen.
If you're not yet a member, please still join! Membership sign-up and renewal will be available at the event.
RSVP at https://friendsofacadia.org/meeting or email lynn@friendsofacadia.org.
SUMMER S.T.E.A.M.
FORUM FOR DISCOVERY
BAR HARBOR—Step into the future of scientific research at JAX’s annual Forum for Discovery on Wednesday, July 9 — join us in person or virtually as we showcase our commitment to tackling today’s biggest health challenges and shaping a healthier tomorrow.
Wednesday, July 9, 2025
The Jackson Laboratory | Auditorium
600 Main Street | Bar Harbor, ME
Virtual audience via ZoomProgram | 1:30 - 4:00 p.m. ET (10:30 - 1:00 p.m. PST)
In-person Networking Reception | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. ET (1:00 - 2:00 p.m. PST)
Visit our website to see the full program. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Reserve your spot today!
July 9: Join Friends of Acadia for Its Annual Meeting
Join Friends of Acadia for the organization's annual meeting on Wednesday, July 9, at 4 p.m. at the Bar Harbor Club to celebrate last year's collective accomplishments and hear updates about what’s happening in the park. The annual meeting is an opportunity to gather in a room full of people who love Acadia National Park and to celebrate amazing work and the people who make it all happen.
If you're not yet a member, please still join! Membership sign-up and renewal will be available at the event.
RSVP at https://friendsofacadia.org/meeting or email lynn@friendsofacadia.org.
“Gifts from Former Shores" to be Discussed at Northeast Harbor Library
At 5:30 on Wednesday, July 9 at the Northeast Harbor Library, journey through thousands of years of dynamic coastal transformation and enduring human presence with Bonnie Newsom and Catherine Schmitt as they discuss "Gifts From Former Shores," their article in the MDI Historical Society's history journal, Chebacco. Through the lens of ancient shell mounds, they will explore the sophisticated foodways, seasonal movements, and environmental stewardship of Wabanaki people, past and present.
This program is a collaboration between the MDI Historical Society and the Northeast Harbor Library. It will be offered in person and remotely via Zoom and will be recorded for later viewing. To register, go to: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/13287794
BAR HARBOR MUSIC FESTIVAL
DALLAS HODGKINS—THE SINGING LOBSTERMAN
Every Wednesday 5-7 p.m., at C-Ray Lobster
WEDNESDAY BOOK CLUBS
Northeast Harbor Library
Love reading? Join us for Readers Unite! Reading Club. This will be an opportunity to read together, share books we love, and have quiet independent reading time. Grades 3 and up are welcome. Come every week, or pop in anytime! Link to register is here.
Somesville Library
SOUTHWEST HARBOR
GIRLS WHO CODE
GUIDED MEDITATION
CHRONICLES OF YARNIA
BLOCK PARTY!
Baby Storytime at Southwest Harbor
10:00 a.m. Southwest Harbor Public Library. Stories, songs, rhymes, bubbles. www.swhplibrary.org. 207-244-7065.
Library hours 9-5, Mon., Tue., Thu., Fri., 9-8 Wed., 9-1 Sat.
Wednesday events via the Chamber:
THURSDAY, JULY 10
JULY 10 - St. Saviour's Folk Music Series- Tim Seeley
Author Talk with Robert Nickelsberg: Legacy of Lies: El Salvador 1981 - 1984
Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 6:30pm
On Thursday, July 10th, 2025 from 6:30 - 7:30, Nickelsberg will share excerpts and images from Legacy of Lies during his upcoming author talk at the Jesup Memorial Library, 34 Mt. Desert Street, Bar Harbor.
JULY 10 - BASH AT THE BOATYARD
NORTHEAST HARBOR—The 2025 Bash at the Boatyard is right around the corner and tickets are sailing away! If you’d like show your support for The Neighborhood House we’d absolutely love to have you join us, but you’ll need to act fast!
Tickets are available online (click the button below), or if you’d prefer you can just give us a call at (207)276-5039 and we’d be happy to add you to our guest list!
All proceeds from the evening support the growing slate of year round programs and events at The Neighborhood House.
The evening Includes
Mouthwatering Bites from Bar Harbor Catering Co.
Complimentary Beer & Wine with a Full Cash Bar Available
Silent Auction Featuring a Bevy of Local Art and More!
MUSIC AT THE LINDENWOOD
Stephen Bowman and Phil Kell will be playing jazz guitar classics and your favorite standards at the Lindenwood.
We will have a cash bar and complimentary appetizers for your enjoyment.
The event will be poolside and begins at 4 p.m.
118 Clark Point Rd, Southwest Harbor
PICK-UP SOCCER!
STITCHES KNITTING AND CROCHET GROUP!
Stitches Knitting & Crochet Group meets on Thursdays from 3-5 p.m. at the Trenton Town Office. The town office is located at 59 Oak Point Road, Trenton, ME 04605. We will meet through mid-May, then take a break for the summer. All levels are welcome. Please join us. You don’t have to live in Trenton to come knit with us.
FIGURE DRAWING AT ARTWAVES
Thursday events via the Chamber:
FRIDAY, JULY 11
Ag Allies Field Walk and Talk with Laura Lecker July 11: 8 A.M.- 10 A.M.
oin us for a presentation and field walk with Ag Allies founder and program director Laura Lecker and Farm Manager April Nugent to discuss Maine's threatened grassland bird species, the importance of preserving open grassland for a variety of wildlife including ground nesting birds, and how to be a better Ag Ally. This interactive presentation will allow participants to join Laura and her colleagues for a field walk through some of the Delaitre Fields of Peggy Rockefeller Farm to observe a variety of species in action on our program sites. Species they may be spotted include bobolinks, savanna sparrows, two species of swallows, northern harrier hawk and much more.
Event Details:
8 a.m.-10 a.m. Friday, July 11, 2025
Peggy Rockefeller Farm, Delaitre Fields, 660 Norway Drive, Bar Harbor
THIS IS NOW POSTPONED:
Fifth Annual Ashley Bryan Lecture: Anthony Walton
Friday, July 11, 2025 at 7:00 pm
The Jesup Memorial Library is honored to announce that the Fifth Annual Ashley Bryan Lecture will take place on Friday, July 11 and feature poet and writer Anthony Walton.
The Fifth Annual Ashley Bryan Lecture, featuring poet and writer Anthony Walton, will be held at the Jesup Memorial Library on Friday, June 11 at 7:00 pm. The program is available online and in-person. Please register online at www.jesuplibrary.org/events/anthonywalton.
BIRCH BAY CAR SHOW
There will be a car show at Birch Bay on July 11th from 1:30-4 p.m. All are invited!
Birch Bay is located at 25 Village Inn Road in Bar Harbor.
TRIBUTE TO SUBLIME
PRODUCE POP-UPS
July 11 - Organic poultry processing workshop
8-10 a.m.
College of the Atlantic Peggy Rockefeller Farm
Delaittre Fields
660 Norway Drive
Bar Harbor
$10-$30 sliding scale
coa.edu/calendar
JULY 11-13 - Discover Your Next Great Summer Read at the Giant Book Sale and Library Fundraiser
MIKE BENNETT AND HIS BALAFON (AFRICAN XYLOPHONE)
Every Friday 5:30-7:30 p.m., at C-Ray Lobster
FRIDAY NIGHT DANCE PARTY!
SOUTHWEST HARBOR FARMER’S MARKET!
We are opening Friday, June 13. Market runs every Friday until Oct 3, 2025.
315 Main Street, Southwest Harbor
9-12:30 p.m.
FUN FRIDAY AT THE JESUP!
FAMILY STORY TIME AT SOUTHWEST HARBOR
10:00 a.m. Southwest Harbor Public Library. Interactive books, puppets, songs, movements, bubbles.
Library hours 9-5, Mon., Tue., Thu., Fri., 9-8 Wed., 9-1 Sat.
Friday events via the Chamber
SATURDAY, JULY 12
JULY 12 - 13 DAWNLAND FESTIVAL OF ARTS & IDEAS!
FLAMINGO FESTIVAL!
JULY 11-13 - Discover Your Next Great Summer Read at the Giant Book Sale and Library Fundraiser
DAVID SEDARIS AT THE CRITERION
LEGO DAY!
BAR HARBOR MUSIC FESTIVAL
7TH ANNUAL HAPANA PRO-AM
Hapana Disc Golf
54 Hapana Way, Trenton, ME
Two rounds of byop doubles. Don't need a pro, just can't have two. 100$ per team + greens
SATURDAY STORY TIMES
NORTHEAST HARBOR
SATURDAYS! BABY AND ME YOGA!
PRAYER SHAWL MISSION GROUP
Saturday events via the Chamber:
SUNDAY, JULY 13
JULY 12 - 13 DAWNLAND FESTIVAL OF ARTS & IDEAS!
FLAMINGO FESTIVAL!
JULY 11-13 - Discover Your Next Great Summer Read at the Giant Book Sale and Library Fundraiser
JULY 13—A SEABIRD CRUIISE TO PETIT MANAN!
The Friends of Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge is hosting a trip to Petit Manan wildlife refuge with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. this Sunday, July 13 at 3-5:30 p.m. Refuge biologists will be present to answer questions.
Sunday, July 13, Seabird Cruise to Petit Manan Island
3:30-5:30 pm (boarding at 3 PM)
Join us on our grand finale trip for the spring/summer Bird Time on the Coast! Travel in style on the Bar Harbor Whale Watching Company’s Friendship V for our annual fundraising event to benefit the Refuge.
The Friendship V takes us on a swift, quiet, and eco-friendly ride to Petit Manan Island, which is home to terns, puffins, black guillemots, and more. While we can’t go ashore, we will have the opportunity to chat with the island technicians and ask questions about the seabirds and researchers living on the island during the summer.
There is a very good chance of seeing Wilson’s storm-petrels or shearwaters on this trip. We will raffle off a themed gift basket, so bring some cash! Sweet and savory finger foods are provided by the Friends, and the boat will have a cash bar. You may bring your own non-alcoholic drinks and food, but nothing in a glass container or hard cooler.
Tickets are $65, and 100% of each ticket supports the Friends of Maine Coastal Islands NWR and the Refuge. Children aged 10 and under who are with their parent/guardian can come for free.
Parking in Bar Harbor along designated streets and in lots can be secured using the ParkMobile app. Set up your ParkMobile app before you arrive to make it easier as parking can be limited – our advice is to get there early! Rain or shine! Be at the dock for boarding at 3:00 pm. The Bar Harbor Whale Watching Company is located at 1 West Street, Bar Harbor, Maine.
Purchase your tickets here or call (207)594-0600 ext. 5114. https://mainecoastislands.org/events/
JULY 13 JAMMY BUFFET
Rodick’s Car and Motorcycle Show
55 Main St, Southwest Harbor
Calling All Car & Motorcycle Enthusiasts!
Bring your antique ride—or any vehicle you're proud of—down to 55 Main Street, Southwest Harbor!
This event is FREE to the public and open to all. Whether it's vintage or just loved, we want to see it!
Registered participants receive:
One FREE round of golf from Golf of Maine
20% OFF your order at Rodick's Takeout
Mark your calendars and cruise on by
Bar Harbor’s Farmers' Market!
Sunday, 9-12, at the Bar Harbor YMCA parking lot. May 11 - October 26.
KIDS CHESS CLUB AT CHOCO-LATTE
Our chess club is great for beginners (at least know how the pieces move) and also intermediate level. All are welcome. We meet most Sundays from 4-5:30 p.m. at Choco-latte in Bar Harbor.
Move Free Run Club
BAR HARBOR—The runs take place every week of the year and meet Tuesdays at 6 p.m. from the Bar Harbor Village Green and Sundays at 7:30 a.m. from Choco Latte.
The Move Free Run Club (Acadia Chapter) meets every Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. from the Bar Harbor Village Green and every Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m. from Choco Latte! Hope to meet more members of the community!
Sunday events via the Chamber:
FUTURE EVENTS!
JULY 14 - SFOA DANCE PARTY!
July 15 - Set Sail with Seagoing Superstar Steven Callahan
BAR HARBOR — A seamanship seminar, “From Ocean Survival to Seasteading,” is showcased at the 2025 College of the Atlantic Coffee & Conversation series July 15, featuring sailor, author, naval architect, and inventor Steven Callahan and COA Director of Marine Operations Toby Stephenson ’98.
The event takes place at 9:30 a.m. at the Davis Center for Human Ecology and online via livestream. Registration is required at coa.edu/coffeeandconversation.
JULY 15 and JULY 16 ELIXIR OF LOVE
JULY 16 - TRENTON GRANGE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION!
TRENTON—Trenton Grange #550 is excited to announce its Centennial Celebration on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, marking 100 years of service and tradition in the community. Everyone is invited to join us from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at our Grange Hall, located at 1134 Bar Harbor Road in Trenton.
Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows will be in attendance and will present the Grange with an award honoring 100 years of incorporation as a grange.
Peter Lazas, Master of the Trenton Grange shares that “this is a celebration of our past and hopes for the future of our Grange and our town.”
Please join us for the celebration of this milestone. Grange members and volunteers will be serving up a traditional bean supper complete with homemade pies! This event is free and open to the public. Donations will be appreciated in support of the Grange's continued community operations, programs and events.
JULY 16 - FERN WALK AT THE LAND AND GARDEN PRESERVE!
Native Ferns of Little Harbor Brook
The Preserve is home to over 15 species of native ferns. Join Tate Bushell on a walk to see, identify, and learn about many of these.
1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
JULY 16 Celebrated Maine Poets Hold Public Reading and Discussion
NORTHEAST HARBOR—On Wednesday, July 16, at 5:30 p.m. the Northeast Harbor Library will host a free reading and discussion with poets Hans Krichels and Bill Carpenter. Register at nehlibrary.org/events or by calling 207-276-3333.
PIZZA IN THE PARK AT THE STONE BARN FARM
Join us on Thursday, July 17th at 5:30 p.m. at the Stone Barn Farm in Bar Harbor for this summer’s Pizza in the Park event. We will gather outside to enjoy free pizza and community as we discuss the many important possibilities that still exist in local climate solutions. Engage in conversation and ask and answer questions as we collectively explore the role communities play in ensuring a thriving planet alongside a thriving democracy. Please bring whatever you may need to be comfortable enjoying pizza and conversation outdoors (picnic blanket, lawn chair etc).
Pizza in the Park free and open to the public! Please reach out to wilson@aclimatetothrive.org with any questions. Registration is encouraged to help ensure we have enough food and can meet any dietary needs. Thank you!
Register to join us on July 17
Hancock Dems Annual Picnic and Potluck Monthly Meeting
July 17 @ 6:00 p.m., Harbor Park and Marina, 413 Water Street, Ellsworth
ELLSWORTH—The Hancock County Democratic Committee monthly meeting will include some music and a potluck picnic in and around the gazebo in Harbor Park at 413 Water Street in Ellsworth. There is also a food truck available. The primary goal of the meeting is just to have a fun and relaxing time with fellow Democrats. There will be a brief business meeting and then talks from two young and committed Democrats, CarmenLaHaye, who just graduated from Ellsworth High School, will talk about her work as an HCDC intern and how her generation receives news, and Rob Faucher, chairman and chief organizer of the New Ellsworth Democrats, will talk about hope for the future and how Democrats can win again. Troy Jackson will be there as our first 2026 gubernatorial candidate to introduce himself and speak briefly to our membership.
Please visit 2025 HCDC Program Schedule
JULY 17 - SUPPORT GROUP
Are you looking for support as a parent or guardian of an adult with ID/D, Autism or Neurodiversity? Join our support group. We do problem solving, advocacy and plan activities. We are planning activities that are designed for the needs of people with ID/D and Autism and are inclusive for the general public. We meet every other Thursday at 4 p.m. at the rectory at St. Savior’s Church in Bar Harbor.
JULY 18 SHARE THE HARVEST
Friday, July 18, 2025 at 5 p.m.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of local food and community spirit at College of the Atlantic Beech Hill Farm.
This beloved annual event has returned, and features a three-course, locally- sourced dinner prepared by Havana Restaurant—led by COA alum Michael Boland ’94. Set amid the fields of one of Maine’s most stunning working farms, the evening celebrates the summer harvest while supporting a critical cause.
All proceeds benefit Share the Harvest, a student-led program working to make fresh, organic produce from Beech Hill Farm more accessible to low-income families on Mount Desert Island. Since 2008, the program has provided support for over 70 families each year through Farmstand Vouchers and home delivery for families with transportation barriers, in addition to providing an additional $25,000 in produce through SNAP/EBT matching.
RESERVE YOUR SEAT
JULY 19 - SOUTHWEST HARBOR CRAFT FAIR
JULY 20 - TREMONT COMMUNITY MARKET
JULY 21 - 26 A SENSE OF PLACE
JULY 21-23 PLEIN AIR WITH ROB FINN
JULY 22 Medical trailblazers talk serendipity and science
Dr. Jessie Stone’s 20+ years experience bringing medical care to a Least Developed Country are the focus of College of the Atlantic’s Coffee & Conversation July 22, “Delivering Healthcare for the Under-Resourced In Uganda: What it Takes.”
Stone sits down with Jackson Laboratory Scientific Director Nadia Rosenthal at 9:30 a.m. at the Davis Center for Human Ecology and online via livestream. Registration is required at coa.edu/coffeeandconversation.
JULY 22 - MDI Author Announces New Novel At Book Launch Event
NORTHEAST HARBOR—On Tuesday, July 22, at 5:30 p.m. the Northeast Harbor Library will host a public book launch event for Martha Tod Dudman’s latest novel, curio.
Join the author to celebrate this recent publication with a live reading and discussion, followed by light refreshments. Books will be available for sale and signing. Dudman is the author of Dawn, Expecting to Fly, Black Olives, Sunrise & the Real World, and Augusta, Gone, which was adapted into an award-winning film. Dudman lives in Northeast Harbor and serves on the select board of the Town of Mount Desert. She is also a Director of the Maine Humanities Council.
Register at nehlibrary.org/events or by calling 207-276-3333.
JULY 22 - WINE AND WHISKERS
WINE & WHISKERS
Tuesday, July 22 - 5:30 PM
Please join us for a celebratory evening with delicious food, a cash bar, music, silent and live auctions, and a paddle raise.
The event will be at the beautiful Bar Harbor Club, 111 West Street, Bar Harbor.
This event raises essential funds to continue the SPCA’s life-saving work, while celebrating with a community that is passionate about the welfare of local animals.
Reservations are required.
FMI & Tickets: https://www.spcahancockcounty.org/wine-and-whiskers/
JULY 22 SUPREME COURT LECTURE
JULY 23- Tree & Shrub Identification & Natural History
Wander the fields and forest of our natural lands and discover the diversity of trees and shrubs while learning how to use a field guide of your choice.
9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
JULY 23-COCKTAIL PARTY
JULY 23 - Conservation Expert Shares 25-Year Retrospective At Public Talk
NORTHEAST HARBOR– On Wednesday, July 23, at 5:30 p.m. the Northeast Harbor Library will host a free talk with author Karin Tilberg about her new book Loving the North Woods: 25 Years of Historic Conservation in Maine.
Tilberg, the past-president/CEO of the Forest Society of Maine, will discuss the seismic changes to conservation in the last three decades and will share untold stories of conserving Maine’s North Woods. She will explore how people’s love of a place brought about action leading to these historic achievements in American conservation and how these stories could guide us now and far into the future. Books will be available for sale and signing.
Register at nehlibrary.org/events or by calling 207-276-3333.
JULY 24 - AUTHOR TALK WITH RICHARD RUSSO
JULY 24 - LUCIUS with SPENCER ALBEE and ZACHARY BENCE
JULY 25 - GRIFFIN WILLIAM SHERRY
JULY 26 - SOUTHWEST HARBOR HISTORICAL SOCIETY
All programs will be held in the museum at Manset Meetinghouse. Learn more here.
JULY 26 NATURE OF LEADERSHIP
AUGUST 3 - BRUNCH AT THE BAR HARBOR INN
BAR HARBOR—The Bar Harbor Inn is delighted to announce the return of its celebrated Sunday Brunch at the Reading Room Restaurant,. This signature buffet brunch will be available on the first Sunday of each month through November, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Guests are invited to indulge in a sumptuous spread of seasonal favorites, meticulously crafted by our culinary team. Set against the backdrop of panoramic ocean views, the brunch offers an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of coastal Maine.
Brunch Details:
When: First Sunday of each month, May through November
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Reading Room Restaurant, Bar Harbor Inn
Pricing: $52 for adults | $25 for children
Reservations can be made by calling (207) 288-3351.
AUGUST 2 Organic Poultry Processing Workshops Set
BAR HARBOR—Learn how to safely and humanely harvest chickens and prepare them for cold storage or cooking at College of the Atlantic Peggy Rockefeller Farm August 2.
For a sliding scale registration fee of $70-$90, participants will work with farm staff in our licensed, on-farm facility to process chickens from live birds to bagged whole carcasses. Everyone will take home a fresh, organic, whole chicken. Register at coa.edu/farmworkshops.
The workshop covers the safety and cleaning protocols of the Maine 1000-bird exemption processing license, explores humane slaughtering and handling techniques, and works through scalding, plucking, evisceration, and bagging.
Participants should arrive wearing closed-toe waterproof shoes (ideally boots), long pants, clothes they don't mind getting messy, and layers appropriate to the weather. Please bring water and a bagged lunch. Light refreshments provided.
Pre-registration is required. Call 207-610-0552 or email anugent@coa.edu with any questions.
AUGUST 2-16 DOWNEAST ROWING CAMPS!
AUGUST 2-4
AUGUST 6
AUGUST 12 - THE MOUNTAIN GOATS
AUGUST 16 - JESUP MEMORIAL LIBRARY BOOKSALE!
BAR HARBOR—The Jesup Memorial Library 55th Annual Booksale will take place on Saturday, August 16 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. The Jesup Booksale is a long-standing community event that provides significant support for the library.
AUGUST 16 - CRAFT FAIR
AUGUST 16 - CHRIS THILE
AUGUST 17 - NEIGHBORHOOD BLOCK PARTY
AUGUST 22 PINK TALKING FISH
AUGUST 23 - ORLEANS QUARTET
AUGUST 27 - ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL
AUGUST 28 - BARRINGTON LEVY
AUGUST 29 - MAMMA MANIA
AUGUST 30 CRAFT FAIR
SEPTEMBER 13 -14 CRAFT FAIR
SEPTEMBER 13 - LIVINGSTON TAYLOR
OCTOBER 11-12 CRAFT FAIR!
OCTOBER 24- TUSK
ONGOING:
GET YOUR HERO ON!
BAR HARBOR FIRE DEPARTMENT
To check if Bar Harbor Fire Department is currently hiring, please go to the town’s jobs page.
But even if it isn’t, you can become a call member.
Becoming a call force firefighter requires extensive training, hard work, and dedication to the community. We rely on call force firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies, to perform firefighting duties, and to provide assistance and support to career firefighters. To be a fall force firefighter is to have a chance to aid and serve the community, which is an extremely rewarding experience.
QUICK NOTE
“Things To Do” is mostly curated by me looking for things happening in the upcoming week, which takes a lot of time and I truly do not know all that is going on.
If there’s something in MDI or Trenton that you’d like me to mention, please let me know, because I’m definitely always missing some events every week.
If you’d like to donate to help support us, you can, but no pressure! Just click here.
Follow us on Facebook. And as a reminder, you can easily view all our past stories and press releases here.
If you’d like to donate to help support us, you can, but no pressure! Just click here.
If you’d like to sponsor the Bar Harbor Story, you can! Learn more here.
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR COMMITMENT TO YOUR COMMUNITY
Good morning,
I am not sure if you all know about this trip on this coming Sunday July 13 and so wanted to share and ask that you please share with everyone who might be interested.
The Friends of Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge is hosting a trip to Petit Manan wildlife refuge with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. this Sunday July 13 at 3-5:30 pm. Refuge biologists will be present to answer questions.
https://mainecoastislands.org/events/
Sunday, July 13, Seabird Cruise to Petit Manan Island
3:30-5:30 pm (boarding at 3 PM)
Join us on our grand finale trip for the spring/summer Bird Time on the Coast! Travel in style on the Bar Harbor Whale Watching Company’s Friendship V for our annual fundraising event to benefit the Refuge. The Friendship V takes us on a swift, quiet and eco-friendly ride to Petit Manan Island, which is home to terns, puffins, black guillemots and more. While we can’t go ashore, we will have the opportunity to chat with the Island Technicians and ask questions about the seabirds and researchers living on the island during the summer. There is a very good chance of seeing Wilson’s storm-petrels or shearwaters on this trip. We will raffle off a themed gift basket, so bring some cash! Sweet and savory finger foods are provided by the Friends, and the boat will have a cash bar. You may bring your own non-alcoholic drinks and food, but nothing in a glass container or hard cooler. Tickets are $65, and 100% of each ticket supports the Friends of Maine Coastal Islands NWR and the Refuge. Children aged 10 and under who are with their parent/guardian can come for free. Parking in Bar Harbor along designated streets and in lots can be secured using the ParkMobile app. Set up your ParkMobile app before you arrive to make it easier as parking can be limited – our advice is to get there early! Rain or shine! Be at the dock for boarding at 3:00 pm. The Bar Harbor Whale Watching Company is located at 1 West Street, Bar Harbor, Maine.
Purchase your tickets here or call (207)594-0600 ext. 5114.
GET YOUR TICKETS HERE
Thanks and have a great day,
David Coleman