Looking for something to do in Maine anytime of year? Visit sunjournal.com/things-to-do to see what’s going on.
Events subject to change. Always call ahead or check websites for latest information, especially in inclement weather. We want to include everyone in next year’s Guide! Email [email protected] with your event details at any time.
December 2025
Holiday Studio Show and Sale
Friday, Dec. 5, 4-7 p.m. | Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Sunday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Braided Streams Studio, 21 Blackberry Lane, New Sharon | 207-624-2401
Find a handmade gift by a local artist or artisan. Choose from paintings, pottery, collage, fiber art, paper arts, jewelry and more, created by Mary Beth Morrison, Tom Weigle, Vera Johnson, Mary McFarland, Janalee Welch and Maggie McFarland.
There will be refreshments and a daily door prize, as well as a raffle to benefit the Care & Share Food Closet.
Rangeley Friends of the Arts Holiday Open House
Friday, Dec. 5, 5-7 p.m.
RFA Lakeside Theater, 2493 Main St., Rangeley | rangeleyarts.org | (207) 864-5000
Ring in the holiday season with light refreshments, a beer and wine cash bar and, on the big screen, highlights from the 2025 season of the Rangeley Friends of the Arts, “Bringing the Arts to Life” in the Rangeley Lakes Region.
Annual Chester Greenwood Day Craft Fair
Saturday, Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Olsen Student Center at the University of Maine at Farmington, 111 South St., Farmington
Local and traveling vendors present unique and handmade items for all: home décor, needlework, pottery, woodwork, candles, custom stickers, holiday crafts, tasty treats and more. Purchase tickets for a raffle basket created by crafters to support the UMF Giving Tree.
Santa Meet & Greet
Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-noon
Jay-Niles Library, 983 Main St., Jay | jaynileslibrary.com | (207) 645-4062
Take photos, make crafts, decorate cookies and have fun at this free family event, open to the public.
The Nutcracker Ballet
Saturday Dec. 6, 3-5 p.m.
Bjorn Auditorium at Mt. Blue High School, 129 Seamon Rd., Farmington | artsfarmington.org
The performance of the full Classical Nutcracker Ballet by the Robinson Ballet Company of Bangor, danced to the full recorded score of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. $25 for adults, 18 and under free.
Crafting circle at Sacred Threads
Every Saturday, starting Dec. 6, 1-3 p.m.
Rangeley Townhouse Apartments, 14 School St., Rangeley
Call Bunny Fazekas 207-670-4156 for more info.
Bring knitting, crochet, or other craft projects and join this welcoming community. All crafters welcome.
Rangeley Friends of the Arts Movie: GOOD FORTUNE
Saturday Dec. 6, 5 p.m. & 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 7, 2 p.m. & 5 p.m.
RFA Lakeside Theater, 2493 Main St., Rangeley | rangeleyarts.org | (207) 864-5000
In this film Gabriel, a well-meaning but rather inept angel, meddles in the lives of a struggling gig worker and a wealthy venture capitalist. Rated R. Full concession stand, including beer/wine, will be available. Closed captioning is available on most movies if requested to concessions staff before the show begins. Tickets available at the door: adults $7, youth/students, $5
Rangeley Lakes Snowmobile Club Christmas Cocktail Party & Rotary Club
Annual Giving Tree Auction
Saturday, Dec. 6, 5-8 p.m.
Mountain Star Estate, 2057 Main St, Rangeley | rangeleysnowmobile.com
Held at Mountain Star Estate, the public is invited to this community event. Local restaurants that will be providing some of the best dishes the town has to offer. This year, they will be collaborating with the Rotary Club and hosting their annual Giving Tree auction. The trees will be on display and winners will be announced the night of the party. Admission is $30 per person, tickets can be purchased in advance.
Annual Walk to Bethlehem
Sunday, Dec. 7, 5:30 p.m.
Nativity Pageant: 6 p.m.
Rangeley Inn, 2443 Main St., Rangeley
Church of the Good Shepherd, 2614 Main St., Rangeley
rangeleyarts.org | (207) 864-5000
The Rangeley Friends of the Arts present the 46th annual “Walk to Bethlehem,” a unique family event recreating Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, complete with community members costumed as nativity figures. Starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Rangeley Inn, pageant performers, carolers and spectators will walk through the streets of Rangeley, singing and stopping at the Catholic Church and the Baptist Church to ask, “Is there any room at the Inn?” There will also be a stop at the Giving Tree, and the Rangeley Congregational Church. The Walk ends at the Church of the Good Shepherd, which will host a traditional Christmas presentation of carols, classical music, dance and drama at 6 p.m.. This event is free; donations are gratefully accepted.
Christmas in Vienna: Western Maine Community Chorus Concert
Sunday, Dec. 7, 3 p.m.
University of Maine at Farmington, 224 Main St., Farmington | artsfarmington.org
A cherished tradition: the UMF Community Chorus continues under a new name, Western Maine Community Chorus (WMCC) with the generous support of local community donors and ArtsFarmington. Led by new conductor, Dr. Paul McGovern, and accompanist, Christina Spurling, WMCC members perform a blend of traditional and contemporary choral music reflecting the spirit and diversity of the community. Suggested donation: $20 per person.
Art & Inspiration: Haiku as a Spiritual Practice
Monday, Dec. 8, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Old South Church, 235 Main St., Farmington | FarmingtonUCC.org | (207) 778-0424
Downtown Farmers Market
Thursday, Dec. 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and every Thursday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Rangeley Baptist Church, 3 Lake St., Rangeley
Support your friendly community growers and producers and shop here for organic produce and meats, locally made products, local artists and more.
Musical Storytime with Carla
Friday, Dec. 12, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
983 Main St., Jay | jaynileslibrary.com | (207) 645-4062
Join in on singing, stories, dancing, playing instruments, learning and fun! Geared toward preschoolers, but all ages are welcome. You do not need to have a library card or live in Jay to participate. All families with young children are encouraged to attend, no sign-up required.
Rangeley Friends of the Arts Movie: Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere
Friday, Dec. 12 and Saturday, Dec.13: 5 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 14: 2 p.m. & 5 p.m.
RFA Lakeside Theater, 2493 Main St., Rangeley | rangeleyarts.org | (207) 864-5000
Based on Warren Zanes’ book, this film chronicles Bruce Springsteen’s journey crafting his 1982 album Nebraska, which emerged as he recorded Born in the USA with the E Street Band. Rated PG-13. Full concession stand, including beer and wine, will be available. Closed captioning is available on most movies if requested to concessions staff before the show begins. Tickets available at the door: adults $7, youth/students, $5
Mountain Holly Days
Friday, Dec. 12, 9 a.m. through Sunday, Dec. 14, 8 p.m.
Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce | rangeleymaine.com | (207) 864-5571
A festive community tradition of joyful shopping and delightful holiday activities, where families come together to celebrate the magic of the season. Local businesses offer personalized, friendly service, special deals and one-of-a-kind gifts. Forget the hustle and bustle of big-city shopping: join this memorable winter wonderland adventure this holiday season.
Bloom Academy of Dance presents The Nutcracker – “Our Version”
Friday, Dec. 12, 6-8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13, noon and 6 p.m.
Bjorn Auditorium at Mt. Blue High School, 129 Seamon Rd., Farmington
30921.danceticketing.com | (207) 491-4841
Bloom Academy of Dance has a long history of putting on amazing, highly entertaining shows, and this one is no exception. Add this like-you’ve-never-seen-before performance to your favorite holiday traditions, supporting dancers in your very own community. Tickets: $25.
Còig Christmas – Special ECU Heat Fuel Assistance Benefit
Friday, Dec. 12, 7- 9 p.m.
Old South Church, 235 Main St., Farmington | farmingtonucc.org/events | 207-491-5919
For the past decade, Old South Church Concert Series has welcomed the world-renowned Nova Scotia-based Celtic band Còig to Farmington to spread holiday cheer with their annual ECU Heat Share Fuel Assistance Fund Christmas Concert, keeping Franklin County neighbors warm. Còig brings various influences to their high-energy Celtic holiday vocal and instrumental mix ranging from folk, to classical, to swing, giving favorite carols a fresh and original sound. Two of Coig’s founding band members, Rachel Davis and Darren McMullen, will be joined by Cape Breton fiddler Margie Beaton and Montreal-based guitarist Thierry Clouette. Tickets: general admission, $25; students, 12 years and up, $20; children under 12, free.
Holiday Gift Wrapping at the Library
Saturday, Dec. 13, 9 a.m.-noon
Jay-Niles Memorial Library, 983 Main St., Jay | jaynileslibrary.com | (207) 645-4062
Need space and a place to wrap gifts away from little prying eyes? Bring gifts to the hall upstairs and spread out on one of the library’s large tables. Wrapping supplies available. Bring friends for a wrap-date and enjoy some holiday music. Free and open to the public.
The Village Makers of Wilton present: Wilton Second Saturdays
Saturday, Dec. 13, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Downtown Wilton
Extended hours, special events, refreshments and demonstrations all help you “shop small” at friendly local downtown businesses including Nicki Lynn’s Reclaimed Furniture & Decor, October Moon Creations, Rhythmic Roasts and Vera’s Iron and Vine. Find the Village Makers of Wilton on Facebook.
Baked Bean Buffet Supper
Saturday, Dec. 13, 4:30-6 p.m., Saturday, Jan.10, 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m.,
Saturday, Feb.14, 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday, Mar. 14, 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m.
Trinity United Methodist Church, 612 Farmington Falls Rd., Farmington
tumcfarmington.com | (207) 778-3921
A popular monthly community “Second Saturday” event, the menu always includes red hot dogs, baked beans, casseroles, various salads, biscuits and desserts, all homemade and delicious. Adults: $10, children, 5-12 years, $5; children under 5, free.
Movie screening: “Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch”
Thursday, Dec. 18, 4 p.m.
Jay-Niles Memorial Library, 983 Main St., Jay | jaynileslibrary.com | (207) 645-4062
The 2013 Illumination Studios animated version based on Dr. Seuss’ 1957 book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” Snacks provided. Free and open to the public.
Franklin County Fiddlers Coming Home
Friday, Dec. 19, 7-9 p.m.
Old South Church, 235 Main St., Farmington | FarmingtonUCC.org | (207) 778-0424
Community Carol Sing
Saturday, Dec. 20, 2 -3 p.m.
Old South Church, 235 Main St., Farmington | FarmingtonUCC.org | (207) 778-0424
Join friends and neighbors in a lovely Christmas tradition to welcome the holidays.
Winter Solstice Festival Weekend Retreat
Saturday, Dec. 20, 9 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 21, 6 p.m.
Sat Manav Yoga Ashram, 243 Greenwood Brook Rd., Farmington
events.humanitix.com/winter-solstice-xnyagkmm | (207) 485-1228
Visit the Sat Manav Yoga Ashram to celebrate the Winter Solstice. On this auspicious day recognized by cultures around the globe, yoga honors the darkest and shortest day of the year as a time to begin the profound transition from inward reflection to outward expression. Escape modern day distractions, and join others embracing the ancient way of life Yogis have followed for thousands of years, centered on what matters most. With inspiring intensives, illuminating discourse, uplifting ceremony, incredible food and live music. Kids welcome. Suggested donation: $108/full day, $54/half day. Overnight accommodation: $75/per room, per night. $300/whole weekend (Fri. afternoon to Sun. Evening, accommodation included). For questions please text or call Jaya at 207-578-8227.
Dungeons & Dragons for Tweens/Teens
Saturday, Dec. 20, 9 a.m.-noon
Jay-Niles Memorial Library, 983 Main St., Jay | jaynileslibrary.com | (207) 645-4062
A free community program. Come have an adventure! New players are welcome. Come watch and see if D & D is for you. Materials will be provided.
Rangeley Friends of the Arts Movie: WICKED, FOR GOOD
Friday, Dec. 26 and Saturday, Dec. 27, 5 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 28, 2 p.m. & 5 p.m.; Monday, Dec. 29, Tuesday, Dec. 30, Friday, Jan. 2: and Saturday, Jan. 3: 5 p.m. & 8 p.m.;
Sunday, Jan. 4: 2 p.m. & 5 p.m.
RFA Lakeside Theater, 2493 Main St., Rangeley | rangeleyarts.org | (207) 864-5000
Catch the second of a two-part feature film adaptation of the Broadway musical tale of Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West and her relationship with Glinda, the Good Witch of the North. PG-rated fairy tale/pop music/fantasy. Doors open 45 minutes prior to start time; full concession stand, including beer and wine, will be available. Closed captioning is available on most movies if requested to concessions staff before the show begins. Tickets available at the door: adults $7, youth/students, $5
Saddleback NYE Alpine Dinner Celebration
Wednesday, Dec. 31 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. seatings
Saddleback Mountain Ski Area, 976 Saddleback Mountain Rd., Rangeley
saddlebackmaine.com | (207) 864-5671
Be whisked away to The Nest on the passenger cabin cat for a night full of great memories, an incredible menu and live music from TJ Swan for an unforgettable New Years Eve. Seatings by reservation only; guests will meet in front of the lodge to board the cabin cat 15 minutes prior to reservation time. RSVP required. Tickets: $250 per person, regardless of age.
Saddleback’s 65th Birthday Bash
Wednesday, Dec. 31, starting at 8 p.m.
Saddleback Base Lodge, 976 Saddleback Mountain Rd., Rangeley
saddlebackmaine.com | (207) 864-5671
On December 31, 1960, Saddleback spun the lifts for the very first time. Sixty-five years later they’re ringing in the New Year right where it all began with live music, karaoke, the torchlight parade, fireworks, and more celebrations on the mountain. Tickets: $30, and will be required for access to the Lodge after 8 p.m.
January 2026
“Pancakery” Pancake Breakfast Café
Sunday, Jan. 4, 10:30-11:30 a.m. and each first Sunday of the month, including Dec. 7, 2025,
Feb. 1, 2026 and Mar. 1, 2026
Old South Church, 235 Main St., Farmington | FarmingtonUCC.org | (207) 778-0424
Loaves & Fishes Chowder Lunch to Go
Thursday, Jan. 8, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and every Thursday through Mar. 26
Trinity United Methodist Church, 612 Farmington Falls Rd., Farmington
tumcfarmington.com | (207) 778-3921
Stop by to pick up a hearty homemade chowder lunch to go, complete with a freshly scratch-baked biscuit, pickles and dessert. Pay by donation. Call ahead and leave a message to reserve or just show up. Lunch is cancelled in case of inclement weather.
4th Annual Vertical Challenge
Sunday, Jan. 11, 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Saddleback Mountain Ski Area, 976 Saddleback Mountain Rd., Rangeley
saddlebackmaine.com | (207) 864-5671
This series of free casual ski and snowboard races at Saddleback is open to all ages and abilities. Skiers and snowboarders are divided by gender and age to compete for gold, silver, and bronze medals in each category. In addition to the races, attendees enjoy the festival atmosphere with snowy activities, games, free samples and swag for all ages, plus prizes given away throughout a fun day at the mountain. There is no fee to enter; racers can complete a registration form in advance at ski-vc.com under the “Competitors” tab.
Fat Bike Loppet and Festival
Sunday, Jan. 25
Rangeley Lakes Trail Center, 524 Saddleback Mountain Rd., Rangeley
rangeleylakestrailscenter.org | (207) 864-4309
The Rangeley Lakes Trail Center will host their annual Fat Bike Loppet and Festival, attracting bikers from near and far. The course takes advantage of the beautiful and varied terrain at the Trail Center, and the stadium provides an excellent spectator experience for friends, family and supporters to see the start and finish of this exciting race. The festival will include refreshments, demos and more. See website for details.
Antonio Rocha presents The MALAGA Ship
Thursday, Jan. 29, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Emery Community Arts Center, UMF, Academy St. (between Main and High St.), Farmington
artsfarmington.org
The Malaga, a 183-ton brig built in 1832 in Brunswick, Maine, eventually found herself as part of the illegal transatlantic trade of African captives to the Americas. In a tour de force performance, using his entire body and voice, Rocha sings, narrates and mimes his way through this poetically toned historical tale told mostly from the perspective of the ship. This vivid exploration of the reality and impact of slavery, which was the largest industry in the world in the 1800s, has a deep connection to the performer, for Malaga goes to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1845, where Rocha was raised in a biracial household over a century later. The Malaga Ship is a voyage to the dark corners of his ancestral past.
Rangeley Snodeo
Thursday, Jan. 29 through Sunday, Feb. 1
rangeleysnowmobile.com/snodeo | [email protected]
Sponsored by the Rangeley Lakes Chamber of Commerce, this multi-day event is a classic in Rangeley. This year’s festival will include a chili and chowder cook-off, a live auction, casino night, Rave X show, snowmobile parade down Main Street, fireworks and more. See website for details.
February 2026
Rangeley Pond Hockey Festival
Friday, Feb. 6 through Sunday, Feb. 8
Haley Pond Park, Pond St., Rangeley | facebook.com/rangeleypondhockey | (207) 590-6886
Rangeley takes its pond hockey seriously and is home to the annual Pond Hockey Festival. This lively event draws hockey enthusiasts from all around, adding to the excitement of skating on Haley Pond. Come out and watch the Women’s, Men’s, and Co-Ed division teams compete on the ice. Team Captains’ meeting Friday night, faceoff and elimination play on Saturday, Furbish Brewhouse pizza gathering that night, playoffs and championship games on Sunday, followed by trophies and acknowledgements.
The Gambler – Uphill Challenge to Benefit Saddleback Ski Patrol
Sunday, Feb. 8, 8 a.m. check in
Saddleback Mountain Ski Area, 976 Saddleback Mountain Rd., Rangeley
saddlebackmaine.com | (207) 864-5671
Grab your skis, skins and/or snowshoes – participants will be dealt playing cards along the uphill trail. Everyone gets a full poker hand (five cards) in their first trip up the mountain, and can then do additional laps for one extra card per lap: the more laps you do, the better the chances of winning. After the final descent, meet in The Pub at 3 p.m. to see if the hand you were dealt will win you a prize or declare you the overall winner. Can’t make it to this event? You can always donate via Venmo @Saddleback-SkiPatrol. $50 entrance fee includes an uphill ticket and the chance to win a number of prizes) will benefit the Saddleback Ski Patrol Team, a non-profit organization.
Ain’t I a Woman
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 7- 9 p.m.
Emery Community Arts Center, UMF, Academy St. (between Main and High St.), Farmington
artsfarmington.org
A theatrical chamber music performance celebrating the life and times of four powerful African American women: renowned novelist and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston, ex-slave and fiery abolitionist Sojourner Truth, exuberant folk artist Clementine Hunter and fervent civil rights worker Fannie Lou Hamer. The musical score is drawn from the heartfelt spirituals and blues of the Deep South, the urban vitality of the Jazz Age and contemporary concert music by African Americans. A production of the Core Ensemble, African American actress Tiffany Terrell will bring these four women to life, accompanied by Mikael Darmanie on piano. The performance will be followed by a discussion led by Michael Schoeppener, Professor of History at UMF.
Annual Winterpaloozah
Saturday, Feb. 14 through Sunday, Feb. 22
rangeleymaine.com | (207) 864-5571
saddlebackmaine.com | (207) 864-5671
This year, the Rangeley Lakes Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring an entire week of winter fun activities for kids and the whole family during school vacation. Horse and carriage rides, ice carving demonstrations, and lots more, including a torch parade, Taqueria and fireworks at Saddleback.
Vintage Snowmobile Ride
Saturday, Feb. 28, 9 a.m.
GregsRestorations.com/events | [email protected]
Rangeley Lakes Snowmobile Club Groomer Barn, 722 Loon Lake Road, Rangeley.
The 7th annual 20 mile ride, sponsored by Greg’s Restorations, starts at 10 a.m.
Hamburgers and hot dogs will be sold from 12:30-1 p.m., with proceeds to benefit the RLSC.
Rangeley XC Loppet Weekend
Saturday, Feb. 28 – Sunday, Mar. 1
Rangeley Lakes Trail Center, 524 Saddleback Mountain Rd., Rangeley
rangeleylakestrailscenter.org | (207) 864-4309
Bring the family for a weekend of winter fun as Rangeley Lakes Trail Center hosts these legendary annual events for the 30th year—the Rangeley Loppet 50K, Freestyle, Burt Kettle Classic 25K and 25K Tour. Refreshment stations along the course, and both days feature the famous aprés-ski feed, free of charge for all participants.
March 2026
Women on the Rise
Sunday, Mar. 8 6:30 a.m. meet-up, 7 a.m. start
Saddleback Mountain Ski Area, 976 Saddleback Mountain Rd., Rangeley
saddlebackmaine.com | (207) 864-5671
Celebrate International Women’s Day with Saddleback Mountain’s first women’s uphill adventure. Meet at the Lodge at 6:30 a.m. to set out on an empowering experience, touring with new and old friends to the Saddleback Summit, guided by Saddleback patroller powerhouses. Then enjoy a leisurely breakfast together at The Nest before descending. All ages and abilities are welcome, as are femme, transgender and gender non-conforming people who are comfortable in femme-centered spaces. Uphill gear required: AT skis, telemark skis, or split boards welcome. Please see website for more details.
Marty’s Moose Dash
Sunday, Mar. 8, first race at 10:30 a.m.
Rangeley Lakes Trail Center, 524 Saddleback Mountain Rd., Rangeley
rangeleylakestrailscenter.org | (207) 864-4309
The Rangeley Lakes Trail Center will host the 10th annual Moose Dash Snowshoe Race. This event features a Kids Fun Run, 1K and a 5K Race with multiple categories. Prizes include local maple syrup.
The 4th Annual Back to the Banks Banked Slalom
Saturday, Mar. 14, 8. a.m.-4 p.m.
Saddleback Mountain Ski Area, 976 Saddleback Mountain Rd., Rangeley
saddlebackmaine.com | (207) 864-5671
Saddleback Ski Area’s premier snowboarding and snow skating competition is back: a timed snowboard & snow skates-only race on Grey Ghost consisting of berms and turns that will challenge riders. Open to all ages. Two runs and best time counts. Prizes for the top three riders in each age group. Help paint the mountain pink by raising funds for Boarding for Breast Cancer (B4BC.org). $10 from every rider registration will go directly to B4BC. There will be a silent auction, raffle, and special edition pink logo stickers to purchase to support B4BC’s “Love Your Peaks” event, held at ski mountains nationwide to spread awareness of early detection and a healthy, active lifestyle as the best means of breast cancer prevention.
Looking for something to do in Maine anytime of year? Visit sunjournal.com/things-to-do to see what’s going on.
Events subject to change. Always call ahead or check websites for latest information, especially in inclement weather. We want to include everyone in next year’s Guide!
Email [email protected] with your event details at any time.