Maine is commemorating its 200 years of statehood in 2020 with a wide range of events, exhibitions, and activities that showcase the state’s unique treasures. The big kickoff event is the Statehood Day Celebration, to be held March 15 in Augusta. It will be followed by other signature events later this year, including these three:
- The Bicentennial Parade will take place May 16 in Lewiston and Auburn and celebrates Maine’s veterans, youth, and culture with floats, bands, and more.
- The Tall Ships Festival (June 21–July 20) will stop in multiple ports of call, including Bangor, Belfast, Boothbay Harbor, Bucksport, Castine, Rockland, and Searsport. The closing weekend will include the Parade of Sail in Portland. Two other annual ship-related events taking place near Rockland during the festival are the Great Schooner Race (July 3) and the 2020 Maine Windjammer Association Parade of Sail (July 10); the latter will showcase Maine’s entire windjammer fleet.
- The Grand Finale Weekend (Oct. 9–12) will take place in Augusta, Bangor, and other locations across the state. This four-day celebration highlights Maine’s diverse culture and commercial innovation, and will culminate with the creation of a time capsule.
To learn more about Maine’s bicentennial events, contact Hannah Collins of the Maine Office of Tourism or go to maine200.org.
Top photo: The Tall Ships Festival
Photo by sailmainecoast.com
