August in Maine is a busy time – often it’s not a question of finding something to do, but rather choosing from a long list of events happening each day. In fact, just the weekend of August 13 & 14 alone is packed with everything from music festivals to sailing and lobster boat races.
The Boothbay Opera House has a full schedule of fantastic entertainment coming up in August. If you’ve never visited the historic venue, check it out for one of these fantastic upcoming events. It’s truly an amazing experience to enjoy a performance at the Opera House. On August 12, acclaimed musician Ellis Paul will perform, on the 17th the group Audiobody brings music, physical comedy, and technology to the stage. The Novel Jazz Septet performs on the 18th, and Mighty Mystic and the Thunderbirds play reggae on the 19th. The Far North, a presentation of papers from the Macmillan exploration of the Arctic is schedule for the 25th. Finishing off the month is ragtime pianist Bob Milne on the 31st. If you’re interested in marine science, you may want to check out the ongoing series, Cafe Scientifque on Mondays at 6:00, featuring resident and visiting Bigelow Laboratory Scientists. Prices for events vary, check with the Opera House box office.
The Shipyard Cup will return to Boothbay Harbor for the 9th year on August 13th and 14th. Sailboat races begin Saturday at noon and again Sunday at noon in this event sponsored by Hodgdon Yachts. In addition to watching the race at sea, observers will also be treated to an airshow (best seen from the water). If you aren’t able to see the airshow, you can take a closer look at the planes, featuring restored vintage WWII aircraft, at the Wiscasset Airport.
Olde Bristol Days, though a bit of a drive from Boothbay Harbor is a lot of fun for the whole family. On Saturday, August 13 and Sunday, August 14 visitors to Olde Bristol Days, which takes place at both Fort William Henry and Pemaquid Beach can enjoy tents full of arts and crafts vendors, fun and games for kids, as well as historical reenactments on the grounds of Fort William Henry. A parade through New Harbor takes place on Saturday morning, and the day closes out with a fireworks display at Pemaquid Beach. Festivities continue on Sunday and include the Meritt Brackett Lobster Boat Races in John’s Bay. From Boothbay Harbor take Rt. 1 North to Damariscotta, take Rt 129/130 South at the First National Bank in Damariscotta. Stay on 130 for 7 miles. Event organizers request that visitors park at Bristol School and utilize the shuttles provided to ease traffic congestion. Admission to most events, including many musical performances is free.
A summer luau will take place on August 28th at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Attendees will be treated to a feast of roast pig or chicken, a variety of appetizers, tropical fruit, and macaroons. The Chris Gagne Band will perform island themed music, and a number of items are available for bidding in a silent auction. Tickets are $60 for members, $75 for non-members, and $25 for kids 12 and under. Space is limited and should be purchased in advance at the gardens.
For more ideas when planning your visit to Boothbay Harbor, visit our Activities or Lodging sections, and see Upcoming Events for the area.
