The Common Ground Fair: An Uncommon Celebration

Summer: Organic Farming is the center of the Common Ground Fair held every September in Unity, Maine. This fair is a mecca for those who believe in organic farming and creating a balance between nature and living good. With live demonstrations from farming to sheep sheering visitors are reminded of the “simple” life which often gets lost in our everyday world.The fair also host one of the states only “organic” five mile road races for both runners and walkers. You can enjoy delicious organic Maine food, browse through booths of Maine made products or listen to some of the best local music around. Either way singing, dancing and having a great time is required.

Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village: A Call To Simple Living

Summer, Spring, Fall: A trip to Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village invites visitors to appreciate the art of simple living. Being the only active Shaker Community in the world visitors are offered a unique perspective of life as a Shaker both past and present. Visitors can take a guided tour of the premises which includes a museum, first organized in 1931 in hopes of educating the public to the “truths” about Shakerism. The Shaker Library houses text from their origins to present day. There is also the Shaker Store where you can purchase books, Shaker-made goods, handicrafts, baskets and a wide variety of both culinary and medicinal herbs grown on-site. With over 200 years of Shaker heritage one cannot help but feel as if they have just stepped back in time.Throughout the year the village offers various events from making floorcloths to chair caning. This unique village which is situated on 1800 acres of gorgeous farmland is definitely worth the trip. When you leave you can definitely feel the spirit of the Shakers and see their belief of “putting our hands to work and hearts to God” in action.

Belgrade Lakes Region: Central Maine’s Gem

Summer,Fall: A ride through Augusta into the Belgrades Lakes Region is worth the trip. This area is surrounded by the premier lakes great for recreational activities year round. If you decide to go this summer here are some great things for you and your family to do…If you are into boating and canoeing you could put in at the Route 27 boat launch and canoe from Great Pont to Messalonskee Lake which will lead you through Belgrade Lakes Village where the ducks hang out.Fisherman can find their catch in one of the seven chains of lakes in this area. Large mouth bass, freshwater salmon and trout are plentiful in these clean and clear waters.Golfers can play on one of the top 100 golf courses in the America, Belgrade Lakes Golf Club. The course received a five star rating from Golf Digest and is as sceneic as it is challenging.Diners will be delighted by the Village Inn and Restaurant featuring their famous slow roasted duckling with sceneic lakeside dining. They also offer 8 quaint guest rooms for overnight guest.Whatever you decide to do, the Belgrade Lakes region in the summer and fall months is a must do.

Lakewood Theater: ”All The World’s A Stage”

Summer: Touted as Central Maine’s community cultural centers, Lakewood Theater has earned that reputation. The theater is America’s oldest summer theater still in operation and year after year audience aren’t disappointed by the quality of their productions. Not only do they offer and 18 week schedule of the very best theater possible but, they also offers a wonderful young performers camp designed to teach children theater craft from real professionals. No time to eat before the show? The Lakewood Inn Restaurant located on site offers a great menu for show goers and a beautiful atmosphere with views of Lake Wesserunsett. With the theater now in it’s 107th season they must be doing something right. Make sure you plan a trip to this wonderful oldie but goodie. It is located just 6 miles from Skowheagan Center on Rt. 201. Once you visit you will see why Lakewood Theater is known as one of the locals most cherished institution.

American Folk Festival: Great Music From Across America

Summer: Want a way to spend 3 days enjoying some of the nation’s best performing groups, listening to music, enjoying great food and exploring the many exhibits on various Maine Folk Art tradition. The American Folk Festival offers that and more with activities for people of all ages. There are 5 stages where there is continuous music and dancing. There is a great children’s area with performances designed to entertain the kids and most of the time the parents too. There are demostrations for all of you foodies with discussions such as canning & perserving, how to smoke fish, pick fiddleheads and the list goes on. The artisians of Maine shine with displays of their beautiful, decorative items for the home such as tole painted boxes, hooked rugs and various works of art. This festival travels around the country and this year it will be held in mid August in Bangor. You don’t want to miss this special event so make plans to attend and enjoy sharing the traditional culture and heritage that makes up America today.