Winter has returned with a vengeance! Did you get an alert on your phone last weekend about imminent snow squalls? It was initially easy to write off because, let’s be real, when was the last time a weather app was entirely accurate or reliable? However, surprisingly strong winds and a sudden icy, snowy downpour both proved the alert to be true and reminded us that winter is still here. Whether you are excited winter is back or are eagerly looking forward to the snow melting away for good, here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine: 

Something to Do: 

Have you been feeling listless this winter and needing a jolt to your system? This Sunday, pull yourself out of the slump with Two Maine Mermaids’ International Women’s Day Dance Party and Ocean Dip at Willard Beach in South Portland! Hosted in honor of International Women’s Day (which is officially on Tuesday, March 8), the event will include costumes, dancing, and a beach party, topped off with a polar dip for those brave enough to take the plunge. 

When: 2–3:30 p.m. Sunday
Where: Willow Street, South Portland

Somewhere to Go:

After taking a hiatus in 2021 due to COVID-19, the Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race is back this weekend! If you’re ready to see teams of professional sled dogs doing what they do best, make your way to Fort Kent to watch as competitors in the 30-, 100-, and 250-mile races head off into Aroostook County’s tundra. If you have access to a snowmobile, head to one of the checkpoints along the 250-mile route throughout the weekend to cheer the teams on, and be sure to stop by the finish line at Lonesome Pine Ski Lodge to welcome back the intrepid racers. For a preview of the action, read our story about the 2020 race.

When: 8 a.m. Saturday
Where: Main Street, Fort Kent

Something to Eat: 

The start of March means that it’s time for Maine Restaurant Week! Created in 2009 as a way to support Maine restaurants during the slower winter months, MRW is back this year with over 50 participating locations offering special menu items, three-course dinners, and more. Plus, for the caffeine-addicted readers out there, several participating businesses are selling coffee-infused sweets and savory treats using coffee from Coffee by Design as a part of CRAVE, with $1 from each sale donated to Preble Street. 

When: March 1–12
Where: Various locations across the state

Something to Drink: 

If you’ve decided that this is the year when you will finally learn how to make a proper cocktail, you’re in luck! This Saturday, Batson River ​​Brewing and Distilling is hosting a cocktail class at its Portland location. The class, taught by one of Batson’s expert bartenders, will include a discussion about craft cocktail history, an overview of drink-making techniques, and a lesson on the science of mixology. Plus, you will learn how to make an incredible Manhattan and Negroni to impress your friends with at your next dinner party.

When: 3–4 p.m. Saturday
Where: 82 Hanover St., Portland

Something to Look Forward to: 

Was one of your New Year’s resolutions to work on your yoga practice? Mark your calendar! Next weekend, Belleflower Brewing in Portland is hosting Poses and Pints, an hour-long vinyasa flow taught by Belleflower employee and yoga instructor Caylin Henderson. Participants are welcome to bring their own food and coffee to go along with beermosas and other beverages to help keep the Sunday scaries away. 

When: 10:30–11:30 a.m. Sunday, March 13
Where: 66 Cove St., Portland

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