In Midcoast Maine in August, we get flooded with dozens of postcard-quality images every day, around every corner. It’s the blessing of living in such a beautiful place, and August is the month that we share these moments with friends and family. And why not, the weather is warm, school is around the corner, and you work really hard in the cold months, you might as well take some time to enjoy the warm one. In fact, by taking a little time away from work, you will recharge a bit and actually be better at your job.
Fortunately for you, the community event schedule for our region explodes in August with dozens of can’t miss activities and programs. Because of that, this week is the first in a two-part series profiling some of the bigger events in the region and what you need to know. Look for the follow-up in next week’s Wednesday issue. Here we go:
Topsham Fair (Now – August 12)
The Topsham Fair is already underway and here is a brief overview of the major events each day. Wednesday features Harness Racing at 1PM and the Demolition Derby at 7PM. Thursday is highlighted by the Construction Rodeo at 5PM and the Mini Tractor Pullers at 7PM. Friday brings the Miss Topsham Fair Pageant at 5PM and the Redneck Truck Pull at 6:30. Saturday brings back Harness Racing at 1PM, a frying pan toss also at 1PM, Demolition Derby at 7PM, and Fireworks at 9:15. Sunday closes with Drone Racing at 11AM, He Man She Man Contest at 1PM and a closing concert with Country/Pop artist Lexi James at 4:30PM. For more details log onto www.topshamfair.net
Singin’ in the Rain (August 8-25)
Maine State Music Theater opens it’s fourth full-run show of the season this week with the beloved classic Singin’ in the Rain. Most theaters hesitate to tackle such an ambitious show, with it’s iconic characters, challenging dance sequences and plethora of costumes but few theaters have the talent and capabilities of MSMT. Audiences have already been thrilled with the three full-run shows of the season, most recently with the dazzling disco of Saturday Night Fever, the majesty and magic of Beauty & the Beast and the rock & roll hit that kicked off the season (that audience members are still talking about) Million Dollar Quartet. Singin’ in the Rain will continue to add to this very strong season, with lots of laughs and great production numbers. For more information log onto www.msmt.org
2nd Friday in Downtown Brunswick (August 9)
This monthly series is put on by the Brunswick Downtown Association on the 2nd Fridays of our summer months. It includes a downtown art walk, numerous locations for music, special outdoor sales, retailer events and so much more. There are ten musical acts performing around Brunswick in coordination with 2nd Friday this month. Check out the homepage at www.brunswickdowntown.org for more details.
Narnia, the Musical (August 9-11)
Another way to beat the heat is to travel to a far away land with the Midcoast Youth Theater’s performance of Narnia, the Musical. This production of 6-8th grade school children is based on the C.S. Lewis book series, the Chronicles of Narnia. The show is at the Orion Performing Arts Center in Topsham, and the performances are Thursday and Friday night at 7PM, and a 2PM matinee on Saturday. Log onto www.midcoastyouththeater.org for more details.
Naval Air Station Brunswick (NASB) Reunion (August 10-12)
Over 300 people have registered to attend the festivities this weekend with the 2nd NASB Reunion weekend. Be on the lookout and say ‘welcome home’ to those who served here and are returning to see how the base has changed. This is a preregistration event, so if you are interested in being a part of the weekend you need to reach out to committee chairman Jeffrey Simpson at nasbreunion@gmail.com or by phone at (207) 607-2210. Events include a welcome BBQ at the American Legion in Topsham Friday night, events all day Saturday including a Wayfair tour, golfing at Mere Creek, a Maine Maritime Museum Cruise, and a dinner that night followed by some tours as well on Sunday. Log onto www.nasbreunion.org for more details.
Rapunzel (August 10-12)
Our final production opening this week is Rapunzel at The Theater Project in Brunswick. This production is a twist on the classic fairy tale which is fun and funny with a heartfelt message about the nature of beauty. It’s perfect for the whole family and they will have shows Friday and Saturday at 7:30PM and a Sunday matinee at 2PM. For more information log onto www.theaterproject.com for more details.
Camp Sunshine Watermelon Festival (August 11)
Come to L.L. Bean’s main store on Saturday as the park will be filled with watermelons for the Camp Sunshine Watermelon Festival. There will be lawn games, face painting and even a watermelon eating competition. Events begin at 11AM and will wrap up around 4PM with the watermelon eating competition at 2PM.
The Mad Hatter’s Ball (August 11)
Main Street Bath is pulling out all of the stops for its swanky outdoor summer party at Library Park as they present the Mad Hatter’s Ball. This event puts the fun in fundraising with great appetizers, cash bar and cocktail attire and festive headwear encouraged. The music will be provided by the outstanding Pat Colwell & the Soul Sensations. This is a fundraiser for Main Street Bath that runs so many events in Bath throughout the year, so tickets are $50, but for a worthy cause.
And much more…all of that excitement, and we barely got through this weekend! That’s how incredibly busy August is. We didn’t even get a chance to highlight the recurring events like the outdoor concerts six days a week, the farmer’s markets, Bowdoin International Music Festival and so much more. Look for an update with the rest of August in part two next week.
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