Daily editionMonday, April 20th, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Monday, the 20th of April.
Community
Friends of Mayor Baxter Woods gathered Saturday in Portland to celebrate the park’s 80th anniversary; the event honored the site gifted by Governor Percival Proctor Baxter in 1946 with live music & a volunteer clean up.
WMTWRead more
Environment
Researchers at the Downeast Institute are investigating an 85% drop in soft shell clam landings by placing recruitment boxes on coastal flats until fall (to check growth and predators) amid risks from invasive species.
The state still produces 60% of the nation’s clams.
FOX23Read more
Foresters and scientists urge continued funding for Maine's experimental forests like the Penobscot (in Bradley and Eddington) and Massabesic (in Lyman) as the U.S. Forest Service reorganization raises questions about future operations.
The long-term research has measured one million trees over 60 years and helps calibrate new monitoring tools.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
1,200 supporters gathered Saturday night at a Portland rally where Graham Platner and Sen. Elizabeth Warren challenged Senator Susan Collins and promoted policy changes to strengthen local working families.
The event featured calls to end tax loopholes for billionaires & mega corporations.
WGMERead more
Sports
Today, the 130th Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America starts with 30,000 participants including 183 Mainers like Biddeford native Matt Forcier (raising funds for One Mission to support children with cancer).
The race begins in Hopkinton and ends in Boston.
WMTWRead more
The Portland Sea Dogs defeated the Altoona Curve 5-3 on Sunday in Altoona, Pennsylvania with Hayden Mullins pitching six shutout innings for his first win of the season, and the team took four of six games in the series.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Hearts of Pine broke a 400-minute scoreless streak when Ollie Wright scored his first season goal in the 36th minute against FC Naples — the rain-soaked match at Fitzpatrick Stadium ended in a 1-1 tie after FC Naples scored in the 87th minute.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
John Butler Concert
Tuesday, April 21st, 2026 · 8:00-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre — Last-minute ticket availability — Enjoy a lively performance from renowned artist John Butler at the iconic State Theatre.
Women’s MTB Workshop: Bike Setup
Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026 · 6-8 p.m. — Allspeed Cyclery & Snow — Pre-registration required — Discover mountain bike setup essentials and enhance your ride with fellow riders.
Celtic Woman: A New Era
Friday, April 24th, 2026 · 7:30-9:00 p.m. — State Theatre — $75-$45 reserved seating — Experience the captivating blend of Irish music and culture as Celtic Woman returns with their all-new show.
Bark in the Park
Saturday, April 25th, 2026 · 1 p.m. — Hadlock Field — Dog-friendly event — Celebrate furry friends with the Portland Sea Dogs at this fun-filled day.
Life Drawing in the Light
Sunday, April 26th, 2026 · 11:00 AM — Mechanics' Hall — Pay what you can — Enjoy a figure drawing session with live music and fresh coffee in a vibrant community setting.
Art Mondays at Ugly Duckling Maine
Monday, April 27th, 2026 · 5-7 p.m. — Ugly Duckling Maine — Free entry — Experience a cozy creative meetup filled with art, music, and good energy.
STOLEN MOJO + THE MIDDLE MEN
Thursday, April 30th, 2026 · 8 PM – 12 AM — Vinegar Hill Music Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an engaging night of hard pop tunes from The Middle Men and more.
John Legend Concert
Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 · 6:59 AM – 1:59 PM — Merrill Auditorium — Last-minute tickets available — Don't miss the chance to see John Legend perform live in Portland.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Tuesday, May 5th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Cost info not available — Experience the beauty of outdoor painting in a picturesque setting.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Wednesday, May 6th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticket prices vary — Explore your creativity in the beautiful outdoor setting of Fort Williams Park.