The rustling of leaves, crisp air in the mornings, and sudden abundance of decorative gourds at the grocery store are making us feel some kind of way: nostalgic for summer, excited for fall, and hopeful that this winter will be far snowier than the last. Apple picking, cider doughnuts, and corn mazes are in our near future, and we’re beyond thrilled that it’s finally time to wear chunky sweaters. Read on for some early October activity inspiration from our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Something to Do: 

The start of October means one thing: the annual Maine Craft Weekend! Craft studios and businesses around the state are opening their doors to the public for tours and demonstrations, featuring everything from ceramics to glassblowing to beer brewing;. Educational, community oriented, and family-friendly, this is the perfect chance to learn more about the lifestyle and work of craft makers across Maine!

When: Saturday, October 2, and Sunday, October 3
Where: Various locations around the state

Somewhere to Go: 

Chilly evenings mean it’s bonfire time. Next Thursday head to Camp Ketcha for the Bonfire and Brew Event, which features chili, chowder, beer, live music, and a silent auction, with all proceeds benefiting the Eastern Trail Alliance. Grab your camp chairs, tartan blankets, and Thermoses (or flasks), and lean into the best part of changing weather: getting cozy against the cold.  

When: Thursday, October 7 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: 336 Black Point Rd., Scarborough

Something to Drink: 

If you need yet another way to get in the mood for the changing weather and leaves, head over to Maine Beer Company this weekend for the Fall Flannel Fest. The event speaks for itself: wear your favorite flannel articles of clothing, and enjoy the brewery’s seasonal release, Fall, a coffee stout available on tap and in bottles. There will be raffles giving away flannel shirts from L.L.Bean, Patagonia, and Toad and Co., with all proceeds going to the Wolfe’s Neck Center. Plus, Maine Oyster Company will be serving fresh oysters on Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. 

When: Saturday, October 2, and Sunday, October 3
Where: 525 U.S. Rt. 1, Freeport

Something to Eat: 

Get excited! After remaining shuttered for months, the Frontier Cafe in Brunswick is slowly reopening, starting this evening with a two-night fundraiser for the Midcoast Hunger Prevention Program. Head to Fort Andross for an evening of pizza and salad from Nomad Pizza, paired with live music from local bands Darlin’ Corey and Micromasse. Stay tuned for the restaurant’s reopening plans, and please note that vaccinations or a negative COVID-19 test are required for entry. 

When: 6 p.m.–9 p.m., Thursday, September 30, and Friday, October 1
Where: 14 Maine St., Mill 3 Fort Andross, Brunswick

Something to Look Forward to: 

In honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day on October 11, Luke’s Lobster is hosting an Indigenous People’s Day Dinner, a five-course meal celebrating Maine’s three indigenous food businesses, Mic Mac Farms, Passamaquoddy Maple, and Passamaquoddy Wild Blueberry Company. Tickets for the event cost $75, and all proceeds go to Wabanaki REACH, a Wabanaki-led organization that supports the self-actualization and empowerment of indigenous people in Maine. 

When: 6 p.m., Monday, October 11 
Where: 60 Portland Pier, Portland

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