Daily editionWednesday, July 30th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 30th of July.
Community
Owners of Wayside Tavern and Chef Rian Wyllie will open Gill’s Bar this September at 133 Spring St.—the space once housed Bao Bao Dumpling House and will be used for a neighborhood bar.
The venue will offer classic cocktails, local and European beers and elevated bar food in a renovated 45-seat setting.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
On Tuesday, a Maine lobsterman caught a rare 20 pound blue tinted lobster in Casco Bay and returned the egg carrying female to the sea, with his wife sharing a photo that shows it next to a 2 pound lobster for size comparison + the catch came one day before the Maine Lobster Festival began in Rockland.
WMTWRead more
Culture
Preparations began at Payson Park on Monday for the two-day Back Cove Music and Arts Festival set for this upcoming weekend, and more than 200 workers installed equipment for nearly two dozen bands including headliners Jack White & Lord Huron.
Organizers will use off-site parking and shuttle service to keep local streets clear while ensuring the shows finish by 10 p.m.
WMTWRead more
South Portland author Beck Dorey-Stein released her novel 'Spectacular Things' on July 1 after it was chosen as Reese Witherspoon’s book club pick—its story set in a fictional town draws on local landmarks like the Casco Bay Bridge, Becky’s Diner, and Portland Head Light while the book is being shopped to film and TV producers.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Environment
Dr. Hannah Baranes explained that Maine’s coast is reshaping as rising sea levels from melting ice and warming water cause more flooding in areas like downtown Portland.
Forecasts warn that sea levels will rise one and a half feet by 2050 and up to four feet by 2100 (impacting beaches and local infrastructure).
WMTWRead more
Sports
In its inaugural season, the new Hearts of Pine soccer team sold out every home match, averaging about 5,700 fans and drawing over 2,000 names on the waitlist for 2026 season tickets—team founder Gabe Hoffman Johnson said the club built a local fan base using Maine imagery and community-focused promotions. Local vendors, food trucks, and supportive figures have backed the team, though questions remain on how it will stay relevant in future seasons.
WMTWRead more
Accidents
Firefighters fought a fire in the cupola of the historic Maine Publicity Bureau Building at 501 Danforth St. on Monday night— they quickly put out the flames so they did not spread and investigators are still looking into its cause.
WMTWRead more
Portland Events
Dan Soder Live
Thursday, July 31st, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Dan Soder, the comedic talent behind 'Mafee' from Billions.
Old Port Seafood Lovers Walking Lunch Tour
Friday, August 1st, 2025 · 3:00-5:30 p.m. — Waterfront in Portland — Ticket price includes food and drinks — Explore Maine's seafood culture with local delicacies and insightful guidance.
Outdoor Painting Class in Portland, Maine
Saturday, August 2nd, 2025 · 1-4 p.m. — Scenic Spot near Portland — Cost included — Capture Maine's stunning landscapes with guidance from a local artist.
The Avett Brothers Concert
Tuesday, August 5th, 2025 · 7-10 p.m. — Thompson's Point — Tickets from $170 — Experience an unforgettable evening with The Avett Brothers in Portland, ME.
National Root Beer Float Day Celebration
Wednesday, August 6th, 2025 · 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. — Aloft Portland Downtown Waterfront ME — Donations encouraged — Enjoy delicious root beer floats while supporting The Barbara Bush Children's Hospital.
The Flaming Lips and Modest Mouse Live
Thursday, August 7th, 2025 · 7:00-8:30 p.m. — Thompson's Point — Not specified — Experience a night of psychedelic rock with The Flaming Lips and indie vibes from Modest Mouse.
Guster On The Ocean
Friday, August 8th, 2025 · 3 PM – 9 PM — Thompson's Point — Ticket pricing varies — Experience three days of Guster's live performances by the beautiful ocean in Portland.
Wine Sail - Rosé Experience aboard the Frances
Saturday, August 9th, 2025 · 3-5 p.m. — Maine Sailing Adventures — Cost info not specified — Enjoy exquisite rosé wines while sailing through the stunning Casco Bay.
Dino Trolley Adventure
Sunday, August 10th, 2025 · 9:45-3 p.m. — Seashore Trolley Museum — $15 for ages 3-99, free for kids under 3 — Embark on a dino-themed trolley ride with activities like a dinosaur egg hunt and craft-making fun.
Bingo at Elks Lodge
Tuesday, August 12th, 2025 · 10 AM – 3 PM — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Purchase bingo cards on-site — Enjoy a fun-filled day of bingo with lunch options and ample parking.