Did you have a moment yesterday when you thought to yourself, Seriously, what’s going on? If you found yourself tempted to wear shorts or go for a walk in a T-shirt due to the wildly warm weather, you weren’t alone. We hope you enjoyed that short-lived burst of false spring because a nearly 50 degree drop in temperature today and a storm warning on the horizon means that winter is on its way back to the Pine Tree State (and, honestly, we’re a little bit excited). Here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine: 

Something to Do: 

If you’ve recently jumped on the oyster bandwagon, take your knowledge of the briny bivalve to the next level with an Oyster Shucking Class at the Ivy Cottage at the Cape Arundel Inn and Resort in Kennebunkport this Saturday! The class will involve hands-on instruction shucking a half-dozen oysters, while learning about Maine’s growing oyster farming industry from Ken Sparta of Spartan Sea Farms. 

When: 2–3 p.m. Saturday
Where: 8 Old Fort Ave., Kennebunkport

Somewhere to Go: 

Are you feeling a little stir crazy? Make your way up the coast to the Belfast Ice Festival! Wander around downtown to catch a glimpse of the ice sculptures in front of businesses, and stop by the various ice bars for a drink or at participating restaurants for special menu items. Plus, the first annual State of Maine Ice Carving Championships will take place on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Grab your friends and family, and get back into the mood for winter!

When: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Where: Downtown Belfast

Something to Eat: 

In honor of Mardi Gras (which is officially next Tuesday, March 1), the Causeway Restaurant at the Craignair Inn in Spruce Head is hosting a multiday celebration with festive music, Cajun food, traditional New Orleans drinks, and a photobooth! Each evening will feature a Mardi Gras–themed dinner prepared by chef and a former ambassador for Louisiana Travel, Fernando Ferreira. Make your reservation before it sells out! 

When: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Where: 5 3rd St., Spruce Head

Something to Drink: 

Need a stiff drink to keep the cold at bay? Head to Portland for the final days of Winter Carnival at Maine Craft Distilling, which will feature Nordic-inspired drinks and food specials, distillery tours, and live music to brighten up the dark winter days. Plus, on the final day of the event Saturday, there will be Nordic games, axe throwing, and a pig roast. Pull on your favorite sweater and gear up for a good time! 

When: Until Saturday, February 26
Where: 123 Washington Ave., Portland

Something to Watch: 

If you think you’ve seen just about everything that a winter in Maine can offer, think again. This Saturday, brave the snow and cold to watch Skijor Skowhegan, Maine’s first equestrian skijoring competition, part of the Somerset Snowfest! In the time-trial race, teams consisting of an alpine skier or snowboarder pulled by a horse and rider moves through a 1,000 foot course, complete with gates and jumps. The event is sponsored by Baxter Brewing Brewing Company, which will have a beer garden open to spectators 21+ until 6 p.m.

When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday
Where: 33 Constitution Ave., Skowhegan

Want More?

Subscribe to our newsletters to catch The Maine Weekender in your inbox on Thursdays!