Good morning, Portland.

The annual Ride of Silence—honoring bicyclists, pedestrians and others killed on Maine roads—took place Wednesday night with the ride starting at 6:30 p.m. at CycleMania in Portland and continuing in Saco and Lewiston as organizers expected between 40 and 50 riders.

Several Maine towns will hold Memorial Day events on Monday with Biddeford hosting a ceremony at Waterhouse Field at 10 a.m. and Cape Elizabeth starting its parade at 8:30 a.m.—Topsham, Freeport, Lisbon Falls, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Westbrook, and Portland will also conduct parades and commemorations with planned route adjustments and brief street closures.

Memorial Day parades and ceremonies will be held on Monday in many Maine towns—Biddeford, Topsham, Cape Elizabeth, Freeport, Lisbon, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Portland and Westbrook.

Local officials will announce updates and adjustments, including parking changes and road closures, as the events approach.

Casco Bay Lines announced that it will raise vehicle rates on Peaks Island starting June 21 due to uncertain federal funding — the increase varies by time of year and day of week, with noncommercial rates rising by about $10 to nearly $100 and pass holders paying between $46 and $82 — marking the first fare hike in over a decade.

L.L. Bean began renovating its flagship store in Freeport after investing millions to improve pedestrian access, expand Discovery Park, and add features such as a redesigned trout pond, expanded stream tank, in-store eatery and Custom Shop—renovations that started in 2023.

Maine lawmakers introduced a package of eight tax relief bills designed to lower prices on items like medical equipment, diapers and groceries while raising taxes on luxury services—Senate President Mattie Daughtry said the measures are meant to protect working families.

Four of the bills have passed committee and include doubling the child tax credit and forming a property tax relief working group—steps aimed at easing the cost of living.

Maine faces a severe housing shortage as it must add 84,000 new homes by 2030.

The Maine Affordable Housing Coalition is urging lawmakers to cut permitting delays and zoning restrictions — using bipartisan bills to streamline reviews and reduce red tape — so families, workers and seniors can have affordable homes.

Cheverus pitcher Addison DeRoche reached her 300th career strikeout during a 10 to 0 win over Kennebunk on Wednesday when her coach informed her of the milestone.

She struck out 15 batters and threw a one hitter in a six inning game—boosting the team to an undefeated record.

May 2025 Commencement Ceremony

11 a.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Free admission — Celebrate Unity Environmental University’s graduating class of 2025 with keynote speaker Neil deGrasse Tyson.

Scenic Train Ride

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Check website for pricing — Experience a picturesque journey along Casco Bay in historic passenger cars while learning about Maine's railroading history.

Visit the CREA Ecology Center – Open Sundays

12-2 p.m. — CREA Ecology Center — Free entry — Explore nature and enjoy the beauty of the Cathance River Nature Preserve with family and friends.

An Afternoon with B. Dylan Hollis

1-4 p.m. — Books-A-Million — Ticket required — Celebrate the release of Baking Across America with a lively discussion, meet-and-greet, and an autograph from the beloved author.

Capoeira Classes

6:30-8 p.m. — The Salt Flat Dance Collaborative — Costs vary — Explore the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira through movement, music, and culture.

Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour of Portland

1:30-2:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Ticket pricing varies — Explore Portland’s coast and historic neighborhoods on a classic fire truck with live narration.

Asian Mahjong Game

4-5:30 p.m. — Prince Memorial Library — Free entry — Engage in a weekly drop-in Mahjong game with instruction for beginners.

Maine Fungi Fest 2025

12 PM – 5 PM — Saint Joseph's College of Maine — Free entry — Celebrate all things fungi, plant-based healing, and evolving consciousness.

Wine & Food Walks in Portland, Maine

2:45-5 p.m. — Portland Arts & Technology High School — Ticket required — Experience a guided tasting of exquisite wines paired with delicious local cuisine.

Sunny Day Real Estate Concert

8 AM – 2 PM — State Theatre — VIP Package Available — Enjoy a nostalgia-filled performance with exclusive merchandise from the iconic band.