Whether you’re a local or just visiting Maine, there’s sure to be something to do this weekend — it’s the last weekend of October in Vacationland.  

At Spectrum News Maine, we want to be your community connection. Whether you’re looking to attend a concert, an art exhibit or an event that’s fun for the whole family — we have you covered. 

We’re nearing Halloween and communities across the state are embracing the spooky season with festivities, exhibitions and live music — among other events.

For a full list of Halloween-themed activities across the state, check out our ‘Haunted Happenings’ guide.

Want a break from the tricks? Here’s 10 events happening this weekend that are sure to be a treat: 

Friday

Mars Quest
When will we finally be able to visit Mars? What would it take to walk on its surface? Explore the blood red planet in a whole new way with Mars Quest, narrated by Patrick Stewart. The show starts at 1 p.m. at the Southworth Planetarium in Portland. For tickets and additional showtimes, click here.

Scenes of Maine, an Annual Exhibit of Paintings
See Maine through the eyes of artists as they depict scenes from islands, coves, inland areas and working waterfronts across the state at the Scenes of Maine exhibit at the Richard Boyd Art Gallery on Peaks Island in Portland. The exhibit includes original paintings and drawings by gallery artists’ Patricia Chandler, Carrin Culotta and Randy Eckard, among others. The exhibit is free to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily now through Saturday. For directions to the gallery and artists bios, click here.

Maine Mariners vs. Trois-Rivières Lions
Get loud as the Maine Mariners host the Trois-Rivières Lions at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland. The voice of the Boston Bruins, Jack Edwards, will be at the arena for the Friday night matchup. Puck drops at 7:15 p.m. Reserve your seats today through the Mariners’ group sales department at 207-791-2235. Proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID-19 test is required to attend the game. For additional games, click here.

Saturday

‘Hair of the Dog’ Alternative Dog Show
Head to Maine Craft Distilling in Portland for the first annual “Hair of the Dog” show, where Portland’s pooches will get the chance to showcase their skills on the runway. Enjoy doggie products from Maine-based vendors and a special show from Aim High Canines. All event proceeds will be donated to the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland. For event details and directions to the distillery, click here.

Annual Fall Harvest Fest
Care for a horse-pulled hayride? Jumping around in a bounce house? Face painting? The First United Pentecostal Church of Augusta is offering that and more this weekend during its annual fall festival. The event kicks off with a trunk-or-treat event at 5 p.m., followed by an array of family friendly activities. The event ends with “candy rain” (not sure what that is, but I’m in). For directions and event details, click here

Sunday

Revitalize and Refresh with Restorative Yoga
Enjoy a 90-minute workshop of soft-flowing movements that recirculate energy and warm the body. Restorative yoga is a meditative, calming experience that aims to reduce stress and tension. This workshop is perfect to share with someone you love. For event details and to register, click here.

Can't make it to the class? Do a vinyasa in the comfort of your home with yoga instructor and YouTube sensation, Adriene Mishler. From power yoga, to practices focusing on the breath, there's something for everyone -- no experience necessary.

I take classes from Adriene's curated playlists every morning. For me, it's a great way to get moving first thing and you can pick what feels good for you in that moment. This is my favorite yoga flow on her YouTube channel right now. Namaste! 

Fall Festival: Journey Through Time
Venture to the Head of Falls in Waterville for a fall festival that’s sure to delight. The event features a bounce house, food, games and so much more. The fun starts at 3 p.m. For directions or to RSVP to the event on Facebook, click here

Lost Valley Fall Festival
Come in costume or your favorite flannel to Lost Valley’s Annual Fall Festival. Take a foliage chairlift ride, play pumpkin tic-tac-toe or watch a chainsaw-carving demonstration. Have old ski gear laying around? Bring it with you to sell during the ski swap from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or buy gently used items and get ready for this year’s season. For directions to the Auburn mountain and a full list of activities, click here.


Maine Summit Trek at Lost Valley
How many times can you summit a mountain in 4 hours? Push it to the extreme during the Maine Summit Trek at Lost Valley in Auburn. See how many Maine Peaks you can summit while competing against others for prizes and bragging rights. Help raise funds for Tree Street Youth’s outdoor activity program and embrace your inner mountaineer. This event coincides with the mountain’s fall festival. To register in advance, click here. Your registration includes chairlift access, entry into the event and my favorite, swag. 

 

Figure Drawing Workshop
Take part in a Sunday evening of figure drawing with a live model at Hustle and Flow in Portland. Capture shapes, muscles and the full essence of the human body in a variety of postures. If you have your own drawing supplies, please bring your own pencils, erasers, sharpeners, drawing board, etc. If you do not have your own equipment, the studio will provide supplies. To register for the workshop, click here

Already have plans for this weekend? Check out Spectrum News Maine community calendar for local offerings happening this month.

Do you have an upcoming event that you’d like mentioned? Email me at maddison.raynor@charter.com.