September in Maine is filled with vibrant events that celebrate culture, community, and coastal beauty. From fairs and festivals to lighthouse tours and bike rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting, these highlights capture the best of life in Maine this month.
Maine Music Weekend Festival
Portland
September 5-7, 2025
Portland’s music scene comes alive with a citywide celebration of local and regional talent. From intimate venues to outdoor stages, this new festival highlights a range of genres and adds fresh energy to Maine’s cultural calendar.
Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival
Wells, Maine
September 6-7, 2025
The Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival is held in Wells, Maine, on the weekend after Labor Day. Celebrating its 37th year, this juried crafts festival features works by over 140 New England artisans in an idyllic seaside setting. With live music, local food, and nature trails, it supports conservation and community at the Wells Reserve.
Maine Cheese Festival
Wells, Maine
September 10, 2025
Celebrate Maine Cheese and Cheesemakers with the Maine Cheese Guild at the Annual Maine Cheese Festival. This rain-or-shine, family-friendly event is sure to delight everyone! Come for the music, food trucks, and of course, come for the Maine cheese! The Maine Cheese Guild is pleased to host the 7th annual Maine Cheese Festival, our annual showcase of the best artisan cheeses made in Maine.
Camden International Film Festival
Camden, Maine
September 11-14, 2025
Camden International Film Festival is celebrating its 21st edition next fall! CIFF will feature a slate of boundary-pushing documentary films and filmmakers from across the globe. The festival will take place in person from September 11-14th at various venues throughout Camden and Rockland, Maine. At Points North, we believe that cinema, as a shared experience, builds community.
Maine Lighthouse Ride
Coastal Southern Maine
September 13, 2025
Embark on an unforgettable journey along Maine’s breathtaking coastline with the Maine Lighthouse Ride. Cycle past iconic lighthouses and through picturesque trails, all while supporting the Eastern Trail Alliance’s mission to preserve and enhance southern Maine’s premier greenway.
Maine Open Lighthouse Day
Port Clyde, Maine
September 13, 2025
This popular annual event, which is sponsored by the American Lighthouse Foundation, the United States Coast Guard, and the Maine Office of Tourism, attracts between 15,000 to 18,000 visitors each year and offers the general public the rare opportunity to climb and learn about more than a dozen historic Maine lights. All lighthouses are open 9:00 am to 3:00 pm unless otherwise noted.
Common Ground Country Fair
Unity, Maine
September 19-21, 2025
Held the third weekend after Labor Day, this fair draws 50,000–60,000 people annually. Celebrating organic farming and sustainable living, it’s known for workshops, speakers, and homegrown food options. The Common Ground Country Fair will be held at MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity, Maine on September 19, 20, and 21, 2025.
Dempsey Challenge
Lewiston, Maine
September 20, 2025
The Dempsey Challenge brings thousands of participants to Lewiston each September for a weekend of strength, support, and community. Walk, run, or ride in this inspiring event, where every step and every mile helps raise funds to improve the lives of those impacted by cancer.
Cumberland County Fair
Cumberland, Maine
September 21-27, 2025
Celebrate the Cumberland County Fair, a cherished Maine tradition filled with excitement and entertainment for all ages. A longstanding tradition of Maine, this fair combines livestock shows, rides, midway attractions, crafts, and community events during its weeklong run. Gather family and friends to create lasting memories at the Cumberland County Fair!
Fryeburg Fair
Fryeburg, Maine
September 27 – October 5, 2025
The 175th annual Fryeburg Fair runs Saturday, September 27 through Sunday, October 5th, 2025. Maine’s largest agricultural fair, and an unforgettable “Blue Ribbon Classic.” The fair offers eight days of excitement with over 3,000 animals, thrilling competitions, and diverse exhibits across 185 acres. Whether you’re coming for the animals, the food, or the fun, the Fryeburg Fair is the perfect way to celebrate Maine’s vibrant agricultural community.
From local fairs to cultural festivals, September in Maine is brimming with opportunities to gather, explore, and celebrate. Wherever the month takes you, these events highlight the traditions and experiences that make Maine such a special place to call home or to visit.
