Daily editionMonday, March 16th, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Monday, the 16th of March.
Business
Aldi plans to open its first Maine store on Thursday, Mar. 26 in Portland at the former Big Lots on Brighton Avenue.
The 25,000 sqft store features a unique cart system that requires a quarter to unlock and offers store-brand savings.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Culture
Maine native Eric Saindon (of Weta FX) from Gorham won his second Oscar Sunday night for visual effects on Avatar: Fire and Ash in Hollywood.
A film about Maine-born poet Andrea Gibson was also nominated but did not win.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Anime-Fest drew hundreds of local anime fans at the Double Tree by Hilton on Saturday, Mar. 15.
The event celebrated anime culture with a lively atmosphere.
WGMERead more
On Sunday, the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade filled the Old Port along Commercial Street, drawing hundreds from Portland and Augusta to celebrate Irish heritage with music and festive costumes.
Local attendees, including first-timers from West Gardiner, even saw dogs in top hats—adding charm to the community event.
WMTWRead more
Movie fans enjoyed the 33rd annual Swifty's Oscar Bash last night at Rivalries in Falmouth with red carpet photos, food, awards, and Oscar prediction contests.
Host Tim Diehl led the event that honored Hollywood icon Swifty Lazar and kept the local tradition alive.
WMTWRead more
Education
Maine advocates such as former legislator Jeremy Fischer (chair of Educare Central Maine) urge candidates to prioritize quality early child care and education, stating that safe, affordable programs build the foundation for a skilled workforce and stronger economy.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Environment
Residents near petroleum tanks in South Portland are troubled after a Maine DEP report found toxic chemical levels at 60 and 175 ppb versus normal 4.5 ppb near CITGO and South Portland Terminal LLC tanks.
The DEP will begin direct testing soon + additional details will be provided as they become available.
WGANRead more
Sports
The Dallas Mavericks ended a seven-game losing streak by beating the Cavaliers 130-120 on Sunday afternoon in Cleveland.
Newport native Cooper Flagg scored 27 points and added 10 assists to help snap a 33-point loss from two nights earlier.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
Scuffed Realtor: Live with Nick Rochefort and Alex Schultz
Thursday, March 19th, 2026 · 7 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — $35+ — Experience hilarious live reviews of viewer-submitted houses and unsolicited life advice from your favorite realtor duo.
Scottish Fish Concert
Friday, March 20th, 2026 · 8 p.m. — One Longfellow Square — $30 — Experience a lively blend of original and traditional Scottish and Cape Breton music.
Maine Mariners vs Worcester Railers
Saturday, March 21st, 2026 · 6-7 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — Admission varies — Grab your furry friend and enjoy an exciting hockey night with the Maine Mariners.
Song Circle
Wednesday, March 25th, 2026 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Good Medicine Collective — All ages welcome — Experience the healing power of community singing in a family-friendly setting.
Peking Acrobats Performance
Thursday, March 26th, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Tickets from $25 — Experience a mesmerizing display of acrobatics and artistry from the famed Peking Acrobats.
Anastasia The Musical
Friday, March 27th, 2026 · 8 p.m. — Lyric Music Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting journey of Anya and the mystery of her royal past.
Downtown Boys with Red Eft and Bait Bag
Saturday, March 28th, 2026 · 7:30-10:30 p.m. — SPACE Gallery — Tickets required — Experience the lively performance of Downtown Boys and the catchy tunes of Bait Bag, including their hit 'Pockets'.
Maine Track Club Longfellow 3K
Sunday, March 29th, 2026 · 12:00 PM – 3:59 AM — Congress St. Portland, ME — Registration details available — Celebrate Portland's literary heritage with an engaging 3K run or virtual participation option.
Tuesday Bingo Night: Women’s Edition
Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — Ugly Duckling Maine — Free entry — Enjoy traditional bingo with a women in music vibe hosted by Maggie Unzen.
An Evening With Geordie Greep
Saturday, April 4th, 2026 · 8-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre — $50/ea — Experience an evening with Geordie Greep in Portland's vibrant State Theatre.