At Spectrum News Maine, we want to be your community connection. Whether you are a local or just visiting Maine, there’s sure to be something to do near you — it’s ‘Vacationland’ after all. 

From snowshoeing to bull riding, a lot is happening across the state this weekend. Whether you’re looking for a family friendly event to keep the kids entertained or an afternoon exploring your backyard, we’ve got you covered with these 10 events: 

Professional Bull Riders
8 p.m. at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor
Looking to hoot and holler this weekend? I have the perfect event for you. Don your best cowboy get up and head to the Cross Insurance Center for an evening of bull riding. Watch cowboys get tossed around the arena as part of the Professional Bullriders Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour. This three-night event is sure to be a ‘bucking’ good time. Purchase your tickets in advance on Ticketmaster. 

29th Annual Polar Plunge
1-3 p.m. at the Alfond Youth & Community Center in Waterville
For those who are not afraid of a little cold water, grab your bathing suit and head to Waterville for the 29th annual polar plunge. All funds raised by this event support the Alfond Youth & Community Center’s food programs that help feed Mainers in the greater Waterville area. Costumes are encouraged for participants, however are not required to take the plunge. If you do dress up though you could win a prize for best costume. Hot chocolate and snacks will be provided, and there will be live music and a warming center at the event. For more information or to register a team, click here. 

WinterKids Family Day
9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Camden Snow Bowl
Does your kid like to ski or snowboard? Head to the mountain where I learned to snowboard this weekend for WinterKids Family Day at the Camden Snow Bowl. WinterKids is a nonprofit dedicated to increasing physical activity during Maine’s most sedentary season. At Saturday’s event, members will receive one free junior lift ticket and discounts on sibling or parent tickets. Not a member? You can sign up in advance or at the mountain to take advantage of the family day deals. For more information, click here. 

Can’t make it to Camden on Saturday? WinterKids is hosting an event at Lost Valley on Sunday for another fun-filled day on the slopes. Click for more information.

Freeport Chocolate Festival
11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Main Street in Freeport
Had a hard week? There’s nothing that chocolate can’t fix. Stop by Freeport this weekend for the first annual Chocolate Festival. Sample an assortment of confections, enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and get exclusive one-day discounts and giveaways throughout the downtown area. Featuring candy-bar crafting at Wilbur’s, cupcake decorating lessons, s’mores and much more — this is a chocolate lover's dream. For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page. 

Maine Mariners vs. Worcester Railers
6 p.m. at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland
Celebrate a special birthday this weekend at the Cross Insurance Arena – and, of course, cheer on the Mariners. It’s Beacon’s birthday and all of his mascot friends will be in attendance on Saturday to celebrate the Mariners’ mascot’s birthday bash. The first 1,000 kids 12 and under will receive a travel toothbrush. The puck drops at 6 p.m. Tickets are available to purchase in advance on Ticketmaster. 

L.L.Bean Starlight Snowshoe Tour
6-9 p.m. at Fogg Farm in Freeport
Enjoy an evening of snowshoeing under the stars during L.L.Bean’s Starlight Snowshoe Tour. Trained guides will lead you on a relaxing walk at Fogg Farm while teaching you about Maine’s plants and wildlife. Never snowshoed before? No problem. Ahead of the outing, the instructors will give a brief demonstration of snowshoeing basics and answer any questions you may have. After enjoying the refreshing winter air, enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and a snack. All equipment is provided by L.L.Bean. Click here for registration and more information. 

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Noon on Commercial Street in Portland
Kick off your St. Patrick’s Day celebration early and head to downtown Portland this weekend for a parade hosted by the Maine Irish Heritage Center. All are welcome to attend this event, just make sure you grab your best green attire. Want to walk in the parade? You must have the luck of the Irish on your side because registration is still open to participate in Sunday’s festivities. Click here to sign up today. 

Get in the spirit ahead of Sunday's event with this St. Patrick's Day themed playlist on Spotify –  it's sure to make you do an Irish jig. 

Bike, Brownies & Beverages Social
9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Carter’s XC Ski Center in Bethel
Head to Bethel this weekend for an afternoon of exploration. Admission is $25 for the day and includes a trail pass, a homemade brownie, a beverage and a fat bike demo. For event information and directions to the center, click here.

Magic Globe: A Story of the Seasons
2-3 p.m. at the Versant Power Astronomy Center in Orono
Described as an engaging story designed to interest and challenge children, Magic Globe tells Mia’s story as she discovers a mysterious piece of astronomical machinery. All science-related topics are broken down and woven into the storyline for kids to learn new concepts while following the plot. Organizers say this event is perfect for children ages 5 to 12 years old. Tickets for the planetarium program are $7 for adults, $6 for students and $5 for children 12 and under. You can purchase your tickets online or at the center’s box office ahead of the show. 

Bliss Wedding Show
10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Thompson’s Point in Portland
Is it just me or does it seem like everyone is getting engaged right now? If you’re one of the bunch and need some inspiration to plan your big day, head to Thompson’s Point this weekend for the Bliss Wedding Show. More than 80 vendors will be in attendance and guest speakers are readily available to help you plan your wedding and honeymoon. Featuring a lounge area for you and your party to sit down, as well as a full bar and food vendors located on-site during the show. For event details and to register, click here.

Have an event you would like mentioned? Email us at maddison.raynor@charter.com and we’ll add it to our weekly list.