Daily editionWednesday, May 28th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 28th of May.
Business
Developers say the new 3,300-capacity entertainment venue at 244 Cumberland Avenue will not face parking issues because a report to the Portland Planning Board shows 2,849 public parking spaces lie within 0.4 miles—agreements for 1,380 reserved spots in Temple Street and Custom House garages and a May study showing 18–19% occupancy at local lots support the claim.
WMTWRead more
Culture
The sibling duo of Liz and Dan Faiella will perform Irish music at the Brick Store Museum in Kennebunk on June 8 — from 3 to 5 p.m. — as part of the Concerts in West K! series, with admission costing $20 per person.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Economy
Maine has nearly 1,400 licensed home bakers selling bread and treats for $6 to $10, allowed by state laws that impose few rules—helping bakers in most towns earn extra income from their small businesses.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
During Memorial Day weekend, Maine recorded over 1 million vehicle transactions on the Turnpike, with Friday’s count at 343,346 (official estimates had been lower).
Turnpike officials said low gas prices and early traveler bookings (including many headed to Acadia National Park) point to a promising start to summer tourism despite poor weather forecasts.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Environment
Wells Reserve at Laudholm will host environmental journalist Sharon Udasin for a Lunch and Learn session on June 4 from noon to 1 p.m. at Mather Auditorium where she will discuss her new book 'Poisoning the Well: How Forever Chemicals Contaminated America'—a session that requires a suggested donation of $5 per person.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
The Portland Planning Board considered a 3,300-seat concert venue near Merrill Auditorium after a Tuesday public hearing where Live Nation and Mile Marker Investments backed the project while local venues and residents raised concerns over traffic and parking.
The board will meet again on June 10 to review if the project meets zoning standards.
WGANRead more
Health
Maine's long-term care services face staffing shortages and low funds—over 50 facilities have closed in the past decade—with advocates calling for $10 million and reimbursement rate adjustments today.
These challenges risk proper care for 142,000 seniors now and will strain services as the elderly population is expected to rise to 252,000 by 2040.
WGMERead more
Lifestyle
A social media baker is starting a cross-country road trip this summer to promote his new cookbook — Baking Across America — and he will visit Maine as part of his journey.
He is known for his popular videos featuring vintage American recipes.
WGMERead more
Portland Events
CoComelon Live: Sing-A-Long
Thursday, May 29th, 2025 · 6-10 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience your favorite CoComelon songs live in a thrilling interactive show for kids.
Maine Fungi Fest 2025
Friday, May 30th, 2025 · 12 PM – 5 PM — Saint Joseph's College of Maine — Free entry — Celebrate all things fungi, plant-based healing, and evolving consciousness.
Scenic Train Ride
Saturday, May 31st, 2025 · 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticket required — Experience a nostalgic ride through beautiful Casco Bay while learning about Maine's narrow gauge railroading history.
Sunny Day Real Estate Concert
Sunday, June 1st, 2025 · 8 AM – 2 PM — State Theatre — VIP Package Available — Enjoy a nostalgia-filled performance with exclusive merchandise from the iconic band.
Farmer's Market
Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025 · 8 AM – 1 PM — Brunswick Town Mall — Free entry — Fresh produce and local goods available every Tuesday and Friday throughout the season.
Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour in Portland, ME
Wednesday, June 4th, 2025 · 1:30-2:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Ticketed event — Experience Portland's charm with a unique sightseeing tour on a classic fire engine.
Maine Irish Heritage Center Open Hours
Thursday, June 5th, 2025 · 10 AM – 2 PM — Maine Irish Heritage Center — Free entry — Explore Irish heritage through tours, genealogy, and library resources.
Old Port Seafood Lovers Walking Lunch Tour
Friday, June 6th, 2025 · 3:00-5:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Price includes lobster rolls, chowder, and drinks — Explore Maine's seafood industry while savoring local delicacies along the waterfront.
Feel Good Funk Fest 2025
Saturday, June 7th, 2025 · 5-11 p.m. — Portland House Of Music and Events — Ticketed event — Celebrate funk music with a day of free performances followed by headliners at night.
Luv 2 Run Portland 5K
Sunday, June 8th, 2025 · 9-10 a.m. — Marathon Sports Portland — Entry fee required — Enjoy a scenic off-road 5K walk/run with fresh fruit and pastries post-race.