FROM THE COMMUNITY
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Reunited in Concert: The Grassis and Joyce Painter Rice Celebrate the Holidays
The members of First Congregational Church, 141 North St., Kennebunkport, are delighted to announce and welcome the return of some of their favorite musicians for a concert of Christmas classics, carols, and holiday songs. On Sunday, November 29, at 2:00pm, former music director Joyce Painter Rice will accompany the Grassi family on violin. The Grassi sisters, Sophia, Antonia, Christiana, and their mother, Megan, are all accomplished musicians who grace our community with their talents. Joyce’s legacy, aside from being the church’s former music director, is her enthusiasm and commitment for First Church’s 1854 E. & G. G. Hook Organ. The…
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Moving on up: Relationships between Black-capped and Carolina Chickadees in the face of Climate Change
York County Audubon invites the community to a special program at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, November 17th at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm. The closest relative of the black-capped chickadee—Maine’s state bird—is the Carolina chickadee. The geographic ranges of these sister species overlap just a little, along an east-west line extending from New Jersey to Kansas. In the narrow zone of overlap, the two species hybridize frequently. Bob Curry, his students from Villanova University, and various collaborators have studied chickadee hybridization at multiple Pennsylvania sites for more than a quarter century. Dr. Curry will discuss highlights of this work, including…
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The Art Guild of the Kennebunks presents a unique art exhibit
ONE DAY, ONE SIZE, ONE PRICE The Art Guild of the Kennebunks invites you to attend a Very Special Exhibit at the Masonic Lodge, 1 North Street, Kennebunkport on Saturday, November 21, 2026 from10 AM-5 PM titled: ONE DAY, ONE SIZE, ONE PRICE This is a perfect chance to buy and gift unique artwork for the holiday season. Our local artists will be exhibiting 5 original pieces of 5×7 art all identically matted for 8×10 framing and priced at $100 each. Please join us for this unique day!
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Hand-Made Bowls of Hope at The New School
KENNEBUNK – Saturday, November 14 from 5:30 to 7:30 will be an evening of great soups, breads and desserts donated by local restaurants and bakeries at the annual Bowls of Holpe. It is a fundraiser for The New School student programs and Community Outreach Services (COS), the local food pantry. There will be live music and a silent auction to add to the fun. The students have created hand-made pottery bowls that can be purchased and kept. The event will be at The New School, 38 York St. (Route 1 south) in Kennebunk. Call 207-985-3745 to reserve tickets. The dinner…
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October Baked Bean & Chop Suey Supper at First Congregational Church in Kennebunkport
KENNEBUNKPORT – The First Congregational Church will be hosting its last of its monthly baked bean & American chop suey suppers for this year on Sat., October 24th from 4:30-6:00pm at the church, 141 North St., Kennebunkport. There will be two types of home baked beans, American chop suey, mac & cheese, hot dogs, rolls, and coleslaw, topped off with a slice of homemade pie. Adults and children age 12 and over $12.00 per person, and children under 12 $5.00 per child. This year’s suppers will conclude for 2026 with the Sat., October 24th supper. First Church baked bean suppers…
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Wells songwriter Stephen Carrigan releases first single, “The Shipyard,” Nov 13
WELLS – Stephen Carrigan, a songwriter from Wells, Maine, who has been working hard at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard for 12 years, releases his first single, “The Shipyard,” on Friday, Nov 13. It’s a country song with a little salt. Carrigan wrote it for his crew, but he says it belongs just as much to shipyard workers everywhere. After years of singing traditional sailors’ songs, including with his band Great Bay Sailor, Carrigan wanted to write songs of his own. The song came to him during a long, quiet shift at the yard. His Nashville friend Jim Prendergast, who warned him…
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Annual meeting of the Kennebunk Fire Society to be held November 10, 2026
KENNEBUNK – The 215th annual meeting of the Kennebunk Fire Society (KFS) will be held on Thursday, November 10, 2026. Members are requested to get their tickets at the Chamber of Commerce on Water St. during the Chamber’s regular business hours. The meeting will be held at the West Kennebunk Fire Station; doors open at 5:30, dinner served at 6:00. KFS is a historic preservation organization and is not part of the Kennebunk Fire Department. Membership is open to Kennebunk residents and business owners; to become a member, or for more information about the dinner, ask a member or contact…
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Brick Store Museum Hosts Multiple October Cemetery Walks and a Seance
KENNEBUNK – Get ready for a month of history and storytelling as the Brick Store Museum presents three distinct programs this October. Whether strolling through historic grounds or experiencing a 19th-century séance, visitors will find a variety of engaging autumn events to explore. “October is organically a month that a lot of people start thinking about the past, especially when it relates to those who have come before us and how communities recognized spiritualism throughout history, so this month naturally brings out a lot of programming from the Museum,” Museum Director Cynthia Walker said. The season kicks off on Saturday,…
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Local Artists Celebrate Inaugural “Gorgeous Gourds” Project at Brick Store Museum
KENNEBUNK — This autumn, local creativity is in full bloom at the Brick Store Museum through its inaugural Gorgeous Gourds project. Inspired by celebrated public art initiatives like Washington, D.C.’s Party Animals, the Museum invited artists of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds—from eager amateurs to seasoned professionals—to transform simple, reusable craft pumpkins into original, handcrafted works of art. Throughout the month of October, these one-of-a-kind autumn creations are on public display integrated directly into the Museum’s gallery exhibitions, offering visitors a festive, seasonal twist alongside local history and culture. “The response from our creative community has been vibrant and inspiring,”…
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An Evening with William Brewster: Readings from the Journals of a Nineteenth Century Ornithologist”
WELLS – York County Audubon invites the community to a special program at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, October 20th. Bird watcher (and sound artist) Dianne Ballon has been wanting to present An Evening with William Brewster ever since she found a copy of Concord River: Selections from the Journals of William Brewster, Harvard University Press, 1937. His observations and explorations are quietly extraordinary. William Brewster (1851-1919) was a renowned naturalist, conservationist and ornithologist. He worked as a curator at Harvard’s Museum of Comparative Zoology, and gifted a lifetime of bird observations to Harvard. He co-founded the American Ornithologists Union and the Nuttall…
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Brick Store Museum Hosts Multiple October Cemetery Walks and a Seance
KENNEBUNK – Get ready for a month of history and storytelling as the Brick Store Museum presents three distinct programs this October. Whether strolling through historic grounds or experiencing a 19th-century séance, visitors will find a variety of engaging autumn events to explore. “October is organically a month that a lot of people start thinking about the past, especially when it relates to those who have come before us and how communities recognized spiritualism throughout history, so this month naturally brings out a lot of programming from the Museum,” Museum Director Cynthia Walker said. The season kicks off on Saturday,…
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The Michael Jackson HIStory Show stops in Sanford
SANFORD — Get ready to moonwalk your way to Sanford Performing Arts Center this fall. Showtime Australia’s critically acclaimed The Michael Jackson HIStory Show takes the SPAC stage at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, bringing the music, moves and unmistakable spectacle of the King of Pop to life in a high-energy theatrical tribute. Commemorating 30 years since Michael Jackson’s final groundbreaking world tour, HIStory, the production celebrates Jackson’s extraordinary career from his early days with the Jackson 5 through his chart-topping solo years and lasting influence on pop culture. Audiences can expect a hit-filled night featuring favorites including “Thriller,” “Billie…
August 24, 2026
Kennebunkport Historical Society Presents Lecture on the History of Goose Rocks Beach
KENNEBUNKPORT – The Kennebunkport Historical Society invites the community to explore the fascinating history of one of Kennebunkport’s most beloved places during an upcoming lecture, “The History of Goose Rocks Beach,” with historian, Sharon Cummins, on Thursday, August 27 at 7:00 p.m. at the historic Town House School, 135 North Street, Kennebunkport.
Generations of residents and visitors have been drawn to the quiet beauty of Goose Rocks Beach, but behind its familiar shoreline is a rich history shaped by the people, places, and changing character of this distinctive coastal community.
This special evening program will take guests back through the history of Goose Rocks Beach, sharing stories and images that illuminate its evolution over the years. From its early days to its development as a treasured summer community, the lecture offers an opportunity to discover, or rediscover, the history behind a place that holds special meaning for so many.
The program is part of the Kennebunkport Historical Society’s ongoing lecture series, which explores the people, neighborhoods, landmarks, and stories that have shaped Kennebunkport.
Admission is free for Kennebunkport Historical Society members and $10 for non-members. Reservations are preferred, as seating at the Town House School is limited.
The Town House School is located at 135 North Street in Kennebunkport. Doors will open prior to the 7:00 p.m. program.
For reservations and additional information, please contact the Kennebunkport Historical Society. Website: KportHS.com/events, ph: 207-967-2751, email: Info@kporths.org.
About the Kennebunkport Historical Society: Founded in 1952, the Kennebunkport Historical Society works to protect, preserve, and present the unique history of Kennebunkport for current and future generations. Through its historic properties, collections, exhibitions, lectures, educational programs, and community events, the Society connects residents and visitors with the people and stories that have shaped the town.
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August 20, 2026
“Maine by Hand”” Exhibition Series Features Glassmakers
(Part of the Nationwide “Handwork 2026” Initiative, the Rotating Series Connects Contemporary Artistry to the Museum’s Historic Roots in the American Craft Movement)
KENNEBUNK — The Brick Store Museum announces the opening of Maine by Hand: Glass, the next installment in its year-long contemporary craft series. Running from August 22 through October 4, 2026, the exhibition in the Museum’s Bauman Family Gallery showcases the exceptional glassmaking of York County artists Lee Gordon of Kittery and Karen Gola of Sanford.
This showcase is part of Maine by Hand: Contemporary Craft in York County, a rotating exhibition series running from April through November 2026. The series is produced in partnership with Handwork: Celebrating American Craft 2026, a nationwide semiquincentennial initiative honoring the vital role of the handmade in American life. While celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary, the project also marks a profound return to the Brick Store Museum’s founding DNA, highlighting the immense skill found across York County today while honoring a local legacy of craft education that dates back nearly a century.
Spanning five distinct craft traditions—ceramics, woodworking, metalworking, glass, and weaving and fiber arts—each discipline is explored for six weeks at a time in the contemporary Bauman Gallery space. The Glassexhibition follows the museum’s highly successful Wood feature, which concluded on August 16.
The final Maine by Hand show will feature Fiber (October 10 – November 22) with the works of Lisanne Miller of Wells and Elizabeth Hunter of Kennebunk.
The Brick Store Museum is located at 117 Main Street in Kennebunk, Maine. Admission to the Maine by Handexhibitions is included with regular museum admission and is entirely free for Museum Members.
For more information on the exhibition series, museum hours, or the featured artists, please visit www.brickstoremuseum.org.
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August 6, 2026
Sportswriter Keith O’Brien – author of new book on Larry Bird – will speak at Graves Library August 13
KENNEBUNKPORT – As part of the Patsy Bray Mahoney Lecture Series, Graves Library is pleased to welcome author Keith O’Brien to the library on Thursday, August 13, at 7:30 p.m.
Larry Bird, one of the greatest college and professional basketball players of all time, came very close to being neither one. The story of his improbable recruitment and rise at Indiana State University is the subject of bestselling author and award-winning journalist Keith O’Brien’s new book, “Heartland: A Forgotten Place, an Impossible Dream, and the Miracle of Larry Bird”.
O’Brien will discuss Larry Bird’s meteoric rise from obscurity to immortality. While Keith O’Brien is best known for his sports writing, including the bestselling book “Hustle” about the dramatic rise and fall of disgraced baseball superstar Pete Rose, he has penned several other popular books, including “Fly Girls” about women airplane racers.
Registration required for this free event; please call 207-967-2778. Thank you to our sponsors, Kennebunk Outfitters and Octopus Bookshop. The Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library is located at 18 Maine Street, Kennebunkport. For further information, visit www.graveslibrary.org.
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August 4, 2026
Carlisle Foundation Launches to Expand Impact of Community-Based Programs; Revitalized Cowboy Ball to Serve as Marquee Fundraising Event
LYMAN — The newly established Carlisle Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity, proudly announces its formation as the official philanthropic partner to Carlisle Academy Integrative Equine Therapy & Sports. Alongside its launch, the Foundation is reviving the historically beloved Cowboy Ball, set to take place on Saturday, August 22 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., as its premier fundraising event.
The Carlisle Foundation (www.carlislefoundation.org) is governed by an independent Board of Directors responsible for setting strategic priorities, overseeing resources, and approving grantmaking efforts. The Foundation is dedicated to advancing human and equine enrichment through innovative, inclusive, and sustainable charitable initiatives. Its mission is to raise funds that support social benefit programs, training and leadership development, and horse stewardship activities both at Carlisle Academy and through partnerships with community-based equestrian centers nationwide.
“Our vision is rooted in the belief that the connection between humans, horses, and nature can be transformative,” said Carlisle Foundation Board of Directors President, Dr. Julia Burns. “We believe that through collaboration and innovation, we can broaden access to these powerful experiences while strengthening the equestrian industry’s impact.”
The Foundation focuses on three key principles: leveraging partnerships to expand reach, promoting inclusion in equestrian and nature-based initiatives, and empowering the next generation of leaders and practitioners.
The Foundation’s funding priorities encompass three critical areas:
• Social Benefit Programs: Supporting health, education, and well-being through subsidized or free equine-assisted services, community riding, para-equestrian sports, and nature- based programs. Beneficiaries include youth and adults with and without disabilities, individuals recovering from addiction, cancer survivors, at-risk youth, and low-income families.
• Training and Leadership Initiatives: Providing opportunities for students and professionals through internships, certification programs, clinics, research, and service-learning experiences that foster growth and innovation in the field.
• Horse and Farm Stewardship: Ensuring the responsible care of horses and farm resources through daily care, facility management, and support for the acquisition, retirement, and long-term well-being of schoolmaster horses.
Kicking off this new chapter, the Foundation’s first event will be a revitalization of the Cowboy Ball which promises an evening of community celebration. Guests will enjoy great food, a silent auction,
65 Drown Lane | Lyman, Maine 04002 | info@carlislefoundation.org
and dancing to the country swing sounds of Haggard and Cashed. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the Foundation’s programs.
“The Cowboy Ball is more than an event—it’s a celebration of community and the meaningful work made possible through generosity and shared purpose,” said Sarah Armentrout, Carlisle Academy Co-Founder.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the Cowboy Ball are now available. Community members, partners, and supporters are invited to join in launching the Carlisle Foundation and investing in a future where humans and horses learn, grow and thrive together.
For more information, please visit http://www.carlislefoundation.org contact Katrina Vallario at (207) 985- 0374 or katrina@carlisleacademymaine.com.
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July 27, 2026
Registration Opens August 3 for Arundel Parks & Recreation Before & After School Program
Arundel, Maine – Registration for the 2026–2027 Arundel Parks & Recreation Before & After School Program opens on Monday, August 3, 2026, at 6:00 a.m.
The program is open to Arundel resident public Pre-K students and Mildred L. Day (MLD) School students in grades K–5.
Families are encouraged to create an account on the Arundel Parks & Recreation website before registration opens and add all household members to their account. Having your account set up in advance will allow you to:
- Register quickly when enrollment opens.
- Receive email updates and announcements from Arundel Parks & Recreation.
Create your account today to ensure you are ready when registration begins on August 3.
For questions or additional information, please contact Arundel Parks & Recreation at 207-205-6724 orrecprogrammer@arundelmaine.org.
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July 23, 2026
Historic Declaration of Independence Broadside to Visit Kennebunk
KENNEBUNK — The Brick Store Museum is proud to announce that it will host a rare copy of the Declaration of Independence as part of a statewide tour organized by Maine Historical Society. The Declaration will be on display at the Brick Store Museum from Thursday, July 30 through Saturday, August 1. Admission to the Museum and the Declaration viewing is FREE on those days thanks to the support of many community partners.
This amazing tour will bring one of Maine’s most treasured historical artifacts to each of the state’s 16 counties, including York County, between July and October 2026, offering residents a unique opportunity to see and reflect on one of the nation’s founding documents during the 250th anniversary of American independence.
The document on display is one of just 26 surviving copies of the historic Dunlap Broadside, printed in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776, to announce American independence to the colonies. Maine Historical Society is privileged to steward this rare artifact and share it with us.
“Hosting such an historic document here at the Brick Store Museum for all of York County to visit and engage with is a true honor and it highlights the meaningful relationships between the historical organizations in our state and the public that is served by them,” said Cynthia Walker, Executive Director of the Brick Store Museum. “It isn’t just a piece of paper, it’s the thing that started it all, for all of us.”
While Americans often hear the words of the Declaration of Independence, it is a rare and powerful experience to encounter an original printing in person. The exhibition is designed to inspire reflection, civic pride, and a deeper understanding of the nation’s founding principles. The installation will include interpretive materials such as signage, videos that explore the Declaration’s history and Maine’s role in the American Revolution and the founding of the United States.
The Declaration will be open to the public for three days: Thursday, July 30 from 10am – 8pm, with a special commemorative event at 5pm; Friday, July 31 from 10am – 5pm; and Saturday, August 1 from 10am – 4pm.
Local programming organized by the Brick Store Museum and community partners at Kennebunk Free Library will include a Commemoration of the Declaration’s visit to York County on Thursday, July 30 at 5pm; and hands-on activities for children and families during the days. The tour coincides with the Museum’s “From Many, One: Results of Revolution” exhibition which continues through August.
This stop is part of a broader effort to encourage communities across Maine to participate in the 250th anniversary in meaningful and locally relevant ways.
Led by Maine Historical Society, the Declaration of Independence Tour will travel to all 16 Maine counties. The organization is responsible for the transportation and installation of the artifact, while also supporting local partners in planning events and public access. Staff from Maine Historical Society will accompany the Declaration at each stop and assist.
Plan Your Visit:
Location: Brick Store Museum, 117 Main Street, Kennebunk, Maine 04043
Dates: July 30, July 31, August 1
Hours: Hours vary per day, please see website
For more information and to reserve free tickets, visit https://www.mainehistory.org/revolutionary-maine-doi-kennebunk/ or contact the Brick Store Museum at info@brickstoremuseum.org or call (207)985-4802.
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July 20, 2026
Kport Police Department Invites Community to 2nd Annual National Night Out
KENNEBUNKPORT – The Kennebunkport Police Department is excited to invite residents and visitors to its 2nd Annual National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Kennebunkport Recreation Field, 25 School St in Kennebunkport.
National Night Out is a free, family-friendly event designed to bring the community together for an evening of fun while strengthening relationships between residents, first responders, local businesses, and Town departments. Building on the overwhelming success of last year’s inaugural event, this year’s celebration promises even more opportunities for families to connect with those who proudly serve the Kennebunkport community.
The event reflects the Town’s commitment to building strong relationships with the people it serves. By bringing together residents and the departments that work every day to keep Kennebunkport safe, healthy, and thriving, National Night Out helps foster trust, open communication, and community pride. The evening is built around the belief that we are stronger together, and that meaningful connections between neighbors and Town employees create a safer, more connected community for everyone.
“National Night Out is about more than just a fun evening,” said Chief Christohper Simeoni of the Kennebunkport Police Department. “It’s an opportunity for neighbors, businesses, and first responders to come together, build relationships, and strengthen the sense of community that makes Kennebunkport such a special place to live.”
Attendees can look forward to a variety of free activities, including:
- Dunk your favorite Kennebunkport police officers in the dunk tank
- Two inflatable obstacle courses
- Carnival games and family-friendly activities
- Meet local first responders, Town staff, and community organizations
- Educational displays and demonstrations
- Multiple raffles and opportunities to make donations
Guests will also enjoy free food while supplies last, generously provided by many of Kennebunkport’s favorite local restaurants and businesses, including Alisson’s Restaurant, Arundel House of Pizza, Big Daddy’s Ice Cream, and many other generous community partners.
In addition to the festivities, the Kennebunkport Police Department will be hosting a Food Collection Drive to benefit the COS Kennebunk Food Pantry. Community members are encouraged to bring donations of paper towels and commonly needed condiments, including mayonnaise, mustard, relish, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Every donation will help support local families in need.
The event is made possible through the generous support of local businesses, organizations, volunteers, and community sponsors who help ensure that National Night Out remains free for everyone to enjoy.
For more information about National Night Out, please contact the Kennebunkport Police Department at 207-967-2454 or visit the department’s Facebook page.
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July 19, 2026
Kennebunkport Historical Society Presents Lecture on the History of Cape Arundel
KENNEBUNKPORT – The Kennebunkport Historical Society invites the community to an engaging evening exploring the rich history of Cape Arundel on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 5;00 p.m. at the historic Town House School, located at 135 North Street in Kennebunkport.
Presented by the Historical Society’s historian, Sharon Cummins, this fascinating lecture will delve into the stories, people, and places that shaped one of Kennebunkport’s most iconic neighborhoods. Drawing from years of archival research, historic photographs, and local knowledge, Cummins will bring Cape Arundel’s remarkable past to life through an engaging and informative presentation.
Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Admission is free for current Kennebunkport Historical Society members and $10 for the general public. Advance tickets are available at http://www.kporths.com/events, and tickets may also be purchased at the door.
Whether you’re a long-time resident, seasonal visitor, or simply interested in the history of Kennebunkport, this lecture offers a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the people and places that have defined Cape Arundel for generations.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.kporths.com/events.
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Brick Store Museum Hosts “A Taste of Independence” Dinner Celebrating Revolutionary History and Flavors
KENNEBUNK — This summer, history enthusiasts and food lovers alike are invited to step back in time for a memorable evening of celebration at the Brick Store Museum. On Friday, July 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM, the Museum will host A Taste of Independence: In the Spirit of 1776, a unique outdoor fundraising dinner inspired by the flavors, traditions, and community spirit of early America.
This special event coincides with an extraordinary milestone: the Brick Store Museum’s rare, limited-time public display of Maine Historical Society’s copy of the Declaration of Independence, which will be on view from July 30 through August 1.
Guests will kick off the festivities with a sparkling reception in the Museum’s charming courtyard, setting the stage for an evening of exceptional food, lively conversation, and living history under the summer sky.
The highlight of the evening is an Americana-inspired menu meticulously crafted by Chef Bill of For the Love of Food & Drink. The menu blends seasonal, local ingredients with historic touches inspired by 18th-century culinary traditions. During the dinner, Chef Bill will share remarks detailing the foods of the Revolutionary era and the historical inspirations behind the night’s dishes.
Attendees will indulge in a robust, carefully curated dinner featuring: Fresh garden greens, apple coleslaw, sweet pepper cornbread, aged cheddar macaroni and cheese, and bourbon baked beans, Barbecue chicken featuring a historic port wine barbecue sauce, pulled pork with slider rolls, and grilled vegetable kabobs. Dessert will be seasonal berries served with buttermilk biscuits and fresh whipped cream.
“We are thrilled to bring the community together to celebrate history, great food, and summertime in the Kennebunks,” said Mary Delehanty, the Museum’s Engagement Manager. “This unique experience paired with the nation’s 250th milestone makes for a truly unforgettable night, all while supporting a vital cultural institution.”
Tickets for the dinner are $76 per person, a nod to the historic year of 1776. As a primary summer fundraising event, all proceeds directly support the Brick Store Museum’s ongoing exhibitions, educational programs, and local preservation efforts. Reservations are required, and space is limited. To secure tickets or to learn more about the event and the Declaration of Independence exhibition, please visitwww.brickstoremuseum.org/frommanyone or call (207)985-4802.
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July 2, 2026
Stay cool! Discount passes to amusement parks for Arundel folk availalble now!
The Arundel Parks & Rec Department is happy to offer discount passes to local amusement parks this summer. Passes are available for purchase in person at the Arundel Town Hall during regular business hours now through Labor Day. Arundel residents and non-residents are welcome to take advantage of this money-saving opportunity on local family fun. Funtown-Splashtown Combo pass for those 48” and taller $49 each. York’s Wild Animal Kingdom ZOO pass for ages 11 and up $16. Aquaboggan Water Park for those 48” and taller $23. For more information, please visit the Arundel Parks & Rec website at https://arundelme.myrec.com
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July 1, 2026
“Maine by Hand” Exhibition Series Features Wood Works
Part of the Nationwide “Handwork 2026” Initiative, the Rotating Series Connects Contemporary Artistry to the Museum’s Historic Roots in the American Craft Movement
KENNEBUNK, ME — The Brick Store Museum is proud to announce the upcoming opening of Maine by Hand: Wood, the next installment in its year-long contemporary craft series. Running from July 5 through August 16, 2026, the exhibition will be hosted in the Museum’s Bauman Family Gallery and will showcase the exceptional woodworking, furniture design, and carvings of regional artists Mark Wheeler of Saco and Saer Huston of Huston & Company in Kennebunkport.
This showcase is part of Maine by Hand: Contemporary Craft in York County, a rotating exhibition series running from April through November 2026. The series is produced in partnership with Handwork: Celebrating American Craft 2026, a nationwide semiquincentennial initiative honoring the vital role of the handmade in American life. While celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary, the project also marks a profound return to the Brick Store Museum’s founding DNA, highlighting the immense skill found across York County today while honoring a local legacy of craft education that dates back nearly a century.
Spanning five distinct craft traditions—ceramics, woodworking, metalworking, glass, and weaving and fiber arts—each discipline is explored for six weeks at a time in the contemporary Bauman Gallery space. The upcomingWood exhibition follows the museum’s highly successful Metal feature, which concluded on June 28 and highlighted the metal sculptures of Springvale artist and farmer Jean Noon alongside the intricate jewelry of Arundel artisan Rachael Ryan.
Following the conclusion of the Wood showcase in August, the Maine by Hand series will continue into the autumn with two final installments:
- Glass (August 22 – October 4): Featuring Karen Gola of Sanford and Lee Gordon of Kittery.
- Fiber (October 10 – November 22): Featuring Lisanne Miller of Wells and Elizabeth Hunter of Kennebunk.
Plan Your Visit: The Brick Store Museum is located at 117 Main Street in Kennebunk, Maine. Admission to theMaine by Hand exhibitions is included with regular museum admission and is entirely free for Museum Members.
For more information on the exhibition series, museum hours, or the featured artists, please visit www.brickstoremuseum.org.
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June 19, 2026
Celebrating 50 Years of Community, Craftsmanship, and Blueberries
First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church of Kennebunk Marks Golden Anniversary of Beloved Blueberry Festival & Craft Fair
Kennebunk, Maine, Saturday, July 25th – First Parish, a Unitarian Universalist congregation serving Kennebunk and the surrounding area, is proud to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of its annual Blueberry Festival & Craft Fair, bringing together neighbors, families, artists, and blueberry lovers.
The 50th Anniversary Festival will be held on Saturday, July 25th from 9 am to 3 pm, at 114 Main Street and feature more than 45 local artisans and craftspeople, live entertainment, food vendors including crab rolls & vegan options, and the festival’s famous blueberry favorites; pies and buckles.
“This festival has become so much more than a fundraiser,” said Marylyn Wentworth, a long-time festival leader. “For fifty years, it has been a gathering place where friendships are formed, traditions are passed down, and our community comes together to celebrate creativity, generosity, and connection. We are honored to keep that legacy going strong.”
Activities planned for the Golden Anniversary celebration include:
- Expanded artisan and craft exhibits
- A canoe and artisan raffles
- Commemorative Blueberry Fair merchandise
- Food booths including local seafood and vegan options
- Live music and entertainment throughout the day
- Kennebunk Library Book Fair right next door
- A community celebration honoring the generations who have helped make the festival a success
The Blueberry Festival & Craft Fair has long supported the church’s mission and outreach efforts, helping fund programs that serve the wider community while creating a welcoming space for people of all backgrounds.
Admission to the festival is free and open to the public.
For more information, vendor details, volunteer opportunities, or event updates, visit www.uukennebunk.org or contact Alicia Soliman at simardvet@yahoo.com.
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June 17, 2026
“From Many, One: Results of Revolution” at the Brick Store Museum
KENNEBUNK, MAINE – This July, as the nation prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Brick Store Museum invites the community and visitors alike to step into its major summer exhibition, From Many One: Results of Revolution. Now open across four expansive galleries, the exhibition offers a powerful space to reflect on what patriotism means to us today, while honoring the deep hardships local people endured to secure the freedoms we enjoy.
Spanning history and art from the 1750s to the present day, From Many One bridges the past and the modern era. Visitors will encounter rare local artifacts that illustrate the day-to-day struggles and sacrifices of early Kennebunk residents during the American Revolution. Alongside these historical treasures, contemporary artwork invites viewers to contemplate the long, ongoing arch of democracy and how modern artists interpret the American identity today.
This monumental exhibition is made possible through the generous support of The Americana Foundation, the Maine Semiquincentennial Commission, and Kennebunk Savings, alongside the Museum’s dedicated members.
Designed to engage every generation, the exhibition pairs traditional displays with immersive, hands-on activities that bring the story of our democracy to life. From Many One also serves as the centerpiece for a vibrant lineup of July and summer events, giving visitors a chance to connect deeply with our shared history:
- The HistoryAlive! Festival: A dynamic celebration of living history and local heritage.
- A Visit from the Declaration of Independence (July 30 – August 1): For three days only, the Museum will host one of the rare original copies of the Declaration of Independence, on loan from the Maine Historical Society.
- The Maine by Hand Series: Showcasing contemporary makers keeping traditional York County crafts alive.
- A Taste of Independence Dinner: An immersive dinner exploring early American life.
As a cornerstone of Maine’s 250th-anniversary celebrations, From Many One provides an essential destination this July to contemplate the ongoing journey of the American experiment.
For more details on the exhibition, ticket information, and a full schedule of events, please visit www.brickstoremuseum.org/frommanyone.
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Community Harvest Announces Eva’s Café, a New Monthly Free Lunch Program
Contact: Kerry de Bree, Executive Director
(207) 967-1911
info@communityharvestonline.org
Kennebunk, Maine — Community Harvest, a Kennebunk-based non-profit, is proud to announce Eva’s Café, a new monthly free lunch program for the community now entering its third month. The lunch is held on the 4th Wednesday of the month, 11:30 am – 12:30 pm, at St. Martha’s Church in Kennebunk. The next lunch will be held on June 24th. All are welcome.
Eva’s Café is named in honor of Eva J. Barnfather, who passed away in 2025 at the age of 103. A longtime volunteer and community champion, Eva believed deeply in the power of sharing a meal to bring people together. She founded and led Community Harvest’s original monthly meal program, Harvest Café, which served the community for more than a decade, creating a welcoming space where neighbors could gather around the table.
Eva’s Café continues that tradition by offering a free sit-down lunch, freshly prepared and served by community volunteers with ongoing support from The Nonantum Resort. Each meal features a changing menu of soup, salad, sandwich, and dessert.
“Eva believed that food was a delicious and fun way to bring the community together,” said Community Harvest Executive Director Kerry de Bree. “This monthly lunch program carries her spirit forward and keeps her legacy alive in a way she would have loved.”
Community Harvest invites individuals, families, seniors, and anyone looking to connect with others to attend. No registration is required. Information about meals, including menus and dates, will be posted each month to the organization’s Facebook page.
For more information visit communityharvestmaine.org, Community Harvest’s Facebook page, or call (207) 967-1911.
Discover KCT Open House
The Kennebunkport Conservation Trust has reformatted their Annual Meeting into an opportunity to discover KCT! with a new interactive open house event that will allow people to explore Emmons Preserve, visit with board members, staff, stewards, caretakers, volunteers, community partners, and others who love the organization. There will be live music from the BillyBilly band, a raffle, and food and drinks.
Attendees can visit and participate in activities, tents and tables will be set up to learn about all aspects of KCT including information about the trails, islands, programs, and the many properties open for all to enjoy always. Community partners such as KHS Alternative Education, Scouts, Cape Porpoise Archeological Alliance, and more will also join in the fun of the day. Information about upcoming events, programs, fundraisers, festivals and ways to get involved will be on hand as well.
Discover KCT will be held Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 11AM-3PM on the lawn at KCT headquarters, 57 Gravelly Brook Road, Kennebunkport. The event is free and open to the public.
FMI on the KCT: https://www.kporttrust.org/
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Contact:
Cynthia Walker, Executive Director
(207)985-4802
May 27, 2026
Brick Store Museum Invites Community to Annual Meeting
KENNEBUNK – The Brick Store Museum invites its members and the local community to celebrate another year of history and art education at its upcoming Annual Members Meeting. Scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 5:00 PM, the evening will feature vital organizational updates, the exclusive opening of a brand-new exhibition called “From Many, One: Results of Revolution,” and a highly anticipated historical keynote presentation exploring the diverse and often overlooked figures of the American Revolution.
Following a brief business meeting outlining the Museum’s latest milestones and future initiatives, attendees will experience the featured keynote presentation titled, “Shoulder to Shoulder: Uncovering Free and Enslaved Blacks Who Served in the Revolution.” The lecture will be jointly presented by esteemed historians and researchers Vana Carmona and Kathy Ostrander Roberts.
The presentation will place a special emphasis on individuals from local coastal communities, including Wells, Ogunquit, and Kennebunk. Beyond resurrecting these powerful individual narratives, the speakers will highlight the archival methodologies and historical sources used to track and recover history that has long remained hidden from standard textbooks.
The educational portion of the evening will seamlessly transition into a celebration of history and community. Museum members will be among the very first to explore the institution’s brand-new exhibition. To wrap up the evening, a lively reception will be held, featuring a custom taco bar catered by local favorite Las Olas, offering attendees a delicious opportunity to discuss the presentation and mingle with the curators and speakers. Members are invited to RSVP at www.brickstoremuseum.org/calendar.
Press Release: York County Audubon presents: “A Record Setting Maine Big Year – An Experiment in Birding – with Stacey Huth and Noah Gibb“
York County Audubon invites the community to a special program at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, June 16th, when Stacey Huth and Noah Gibb will present an entertaining program about . their incredible record-setting Maine Big Year. This program will be held in the Mather Auditorium at the Wells Reserve and will also be live-streamed via Zoom.
In 2025, two friends, Stacey Pazar Huth (a scientist) and Noah Gibb (an avid birder, photographer, and birding tour guide) embarked on a Maine Big Year and discovered how their team effort was a winning combination. What started as an occasional bird walk at the local marsh grew into the concept of their Integrated Birding Process and “The Experiment.” They combined top-notch birding expertise with remarkable strategic planning. The outcome resulted in a new state of Maine record of 332 species of birds seen in a calendar year!
On Tuesday, June 16th, join the authors as they present “An Experiment In Birding.” Their presentation touches on how they succeeded and it includes select readings from the book. Paperback copies available for purchase at the event. The authors will be honored to sign your copy of the book.
About the Authors:
Stacey Pazar Huth, PhD, has made Southern Maine her home for the past 35 years. She holds a doctorate in chemistry, and spent more than 30 years as a corporate leader and scientist. She led teams in the research and development of diagnostic products in both the human health and veterinary markets. Stacey is an active member and Trustee of the Maine Audubon Society and the proud mother of her adult daughter. Now an empty nester, she has returned to her lifelong love of birds and enjoys exploring Maine with her birding friends.
Noah Gibb has been a Mainer all his life. He has earned a solid birding reputation in Maine’s birding community for his keen visual and auditory bird identification skills, calm demeanor, and sense of humor. In addition to his full-time job, he owns and operates a birding tour business, Noah’s Birding Tours, LLC. A Maine Audubon volunteer since 2013, Noah leads weekly Scarborough Marsh bird walks during the summer months. If you would like to reach out to the authors, please contact them at AnExpInBirding@gmail.com
This program will be presented at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16th, in the MatherAuditorium at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm. The entrance to the parking area is off Skinner Mill Road in Wells. It will be free and open to all ages, and no registration is required for attending the program in person. It will also be live-streamed via Zoom. To view it via Zoom, you’ll need to register in advance. To do so, please go to this event on our website, www.yorkcountyaudubon.org, and click on the registration link in the post for this event. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
We hope you can join us for this entertaining and inspiring presentation, either in person, or, if not, via Zoom!




