We aren’t saying that summer is over. We aren’t. Buuuut it sure feels like cozy season is setting in. Has anyone else started daydreaming about pulling sweaters and light jackets out of the back of the closet? Are you suddenly craving pumpkin flavored foods and beverages? Do you wish that there was a hint of cinnamon wafting in the air at all times? Are you making plans to sneak away to your secret leaf peeping spots? No? Just us? Whether you’re clinging to your flip-flops or eagerly planning your flannel themed outfits, here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine: 

Something to Do:

The apple-focused content of fall has officially begun, and we are here for it! This Sunday, embrace your love of America’s favorite fruit and take part in the 21st annual Maine Apple Sunday, presented by the Maine State Pomological Society. Participating orchards around the state will be holding apple-related events and activities, with plenty of free samples of apple products to go around. Whether you want to pick your own fruit, take a wagon ride, check out a corn maze, or enjoy a picnic in an orchard, there’s a farm that will be sure to make your weekend memorable. 

Somewhere to Go: 

If you’re in the mood for live music and community bonding, head over to the Deering Center neighborhood of Portland this Sunday from 12:15 p.m. to 5 p.m. for the area’s 7th annual Porchfest! The event starts with a 30-minute parade around the neighborhood, followed by a welcome speech from the Porchfest committee. Wander the streets from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. to catch the 60 different musical acts, which can be tracked on a dedicated map and schedule! Stay for as little or as long as you please, and help the community celebrate the start of fall. 

Something to Eat: 

Still hungry after all those apples? While you’re out and about this weekend, swing by Pittsfield for the 2021 Maine Cheese Festival! Set at Manson Park along the Sebasticook River, the festival marks the largest gathering of cheese makers in the state, during which you can learn from the masters of the craft. Activities will include educational food demos, live music, a Maine beer and wine garden, and plenty of vendor tents and food trucks to keep you fully sated with dairy products. The event will have two sessions, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., and the inaugural Maine Cheese Competition winner will be crowned in an awards ceremony at 5 p.m. Grab your tickets today, and be sure to come with a healthy appetite. 

Something to Buy:

Are you (like the rest of us) a big fan of Maine printmaker Erin Flett? Do you covet her bright, pop-y patterns found on tote bags, purses, and bucket hats? Well, you’re in luck! This Sunday at 10 a.m. the maker’s Gorham store is hosting an online sample sale, with discounts ranging from 20- to 50-percent off. All hand printed and sewn in Maine, the items in the sale include overstock, past-season styles, prototypes, misprints, sizing differences, ink blemishes, and products with slight imperfections. The shop rarely hosts sales, so be sure to mark your calendars and get ready to fill your shopping cart quickly Sunday morning!

Something to See: 

From today to Sunday, the Maine Audubon is hosting Brush with Nature: Plein Air Painting at sanctuaries around the state. For the next three days, you can watch juried artists painting at various Maine Audubon sites and engage with the artistic process. Check out the full schedule of painters and locations, and be sure to head to the Gisland Farm Audubon Center in Falmouth from September 18 to 26 to see the finished products. Plus, all the paintings will be sold through an online auction starting September 17. Get outside this weekend, and enjoy some culture while you’re at it.

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