Good morning, Portland.

The Ying Quartet will perform at 7 p.m. on Monday, April 27 at Dutchman's in Brunswick with guest violist Masumi Rostad joining for a string quintet performance, and doors will open at 6 p.m. for a beer and wine social followed by a post-concert pizza chat.

Iron Chef Jose Garces has launched Shokutsu, his new culinary studio at the Pepperell Mill campus in Biddeford, to host pop-up dinners and cooking classes starting May 16.

The loft-style space offers intimate demos for local chefs + winter cooking classes for couples.

Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust will host its ninth Wild and Scenic Film Festival from 7-9 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, at Lincoln Theater in Damariscotta.

The event features films like Maine’s Seaweed Moment that show how kelp farming can boost local conservation and support the coastal economy.

Bethany Connolly, principal of Skillin (9-year leader), was named Maine Association of School Libraries’ Administrator of the Year today for her support of engaging library programs and improvements including a makerspace and vibrant mural.

She has championed diverse, hands-on learning spaces for all students.

Students from UNE and community members planted 12,000 dune grass stalks along Biddeford beach this March in a research project aimed at restoring dunes damaged by January storms & to determine the best plant spacing for future coastal protection.

Communities are celebrating Earth Day 2026 with events across Maine today and this week, featuring outdoor cleanups, guided exploration sessions, and family activities in Auburn (Life Forest Whistle Ridge), Freeport and nearby towns.

Local organizations will host hands-on projects to raise sustainability awareness and protect natural habitats.

Dry and breezy conditions raised fire danger in Maine Tuesday and officials enforced strict restrictions on outdoor burning to prevent wildfire spread, warning residents to avoid sparks from equipment or open flames.

Franklin County leaders wrote letters urging Gov. Mills to veto a statewide moratorium on new data center permits, arguing that a $550M project in Jay would secure jobs and tax revenue.

The bill (LD 307) passed the Legislature last week and Mills has until Saturday to decide.

Maine dispensary owner Jim Hamilton said the state is not enforcing the rule that mandates labels on remediated marijuana products once found to have mold, warning that such products could pose health risks.

The Office of Cannabis Policy said it will issue guidance soon (to ensure consumer safety).

On Tuesday, Apr. 21, advocates and public officials gathered at City Hall to mark National Crime Victims' Rights Week and boost victim support by creating new advocate roles in the police department and district attorney's office; leaders also launched a resource website (Mayor Mark Dion noted the shift).

A Penobscot County jury awarded Travis Getchell $6.5M after finding that Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center delayed his 2021 surgery for an emergency spinal injury, leaving him partially paralyzed + the decision aims to cover his future care and medical expenses.

Set for Sept. 27 at Hannaford Hall on the USM campus, the Maine Sports Hall of Fame will induct 11 honorees (including Al Bean, Mike Brown and Christina Strong) for their lasting contributions to Maine sports.

Ten top southern Maine boys tennis players, led by reigning champion Matt Morneault, are set to compete in local tournaments this season.

The list spotlights rising talent from schools in Falmouth, Brunswick and Camden Hills.

Celtic Woman: A New Era

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.

Bloodshot Bill with Holly & Her Buddys

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Veterans of Foreign Wars — $20/$15 presale — Experience an electrifying rockabilly performance by Bloodshot Bill and local sensations Holly & Her Buddys.

Life Drawing in the Light

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

5-7 p.m. — Ugly Duckling Maine — Free entry — Experience a cozy creative meetup filled with art, music, and good energy.

40 Hour Yin Yoga Teacher Training

9 a.m. - 6 p.m. & 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — The Portland Yoga Project — $775 — Deepen your practice and teaching skills in an immersive Yin Yoga training experience.

John Legend Concert

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

9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Cost info not available — Experience the beauty of outdoor painting in a picturesque setting.

The Laugh Track

May 6 – 31 — Portland Stage — Tickets on sale March 24th — Discover the world premiere of a play about the female writers behind I Love Lucy.

Chase Shanahan Comedy Night

8:30 PM - 12:30 AM — Lincolns — Tickets $10 at the door — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Chase Shanahan at the Laugh Shack.

Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine

9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Enjoy a morning of creativity surrounded by the beauty of nature.