Daily editionWednesday, November 19th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 19th of November.
Community
The Ladies of Holy Trinity Philoptochos will make Greek treats at a holiday bake sale — the event will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 133 Pleasant Street to benefit local nonprofits in Greater Portland.
FOX23Read more
The annual holiday bake sale in Portland will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 133 Pleasant Street — the Ladies of Holy Trinity Philoptochos will serve Greek treats to benefit local nonprofits.
WGMERead more
Business
Portland’s Luncheonette on Cumberland Ave was named to Eater’s Best New Restaurants list as the only New England venue among 15 top entries.
It was launched in June by chef-owners Angela Lee and Alex LeBlanc—offering a menu inspired by Korean American flavors.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Culture
Nor'Geekster Craft Fair returned to Portland on November 18th—transforming USM’s Portland Campus Sullivan Gym into a vibrant marketplace that featured geeky treasures, handmade crafts, and local art with free admission from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FOX23Read more
Three Maine cheesemakers received medals at the 2025 World Cheese Awards held on November 13 in Bern, Switzerland.
Crooked Face Creamery in Skowhegan earned a Super Gold for its Plain Whole Milk Ricotta and a Bronze for its Applewood-Smoked Ricotta—Lakin’s Gorges Cheese in Waldoboro won a Silver while Josh Pond Farm in Whiting received a Bronze medal.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
A city council committee debated a proposed ordinance change that would expand the entertainment venue buffer from 100 feet to 750 feet—this change would block Live Nation’s planned venue near Merrill Auditorium.
Councilors remain split on the proposal, leaving the future of the concert site uncertain.
FOX23Read more
Health
The Maine CDC warned that no one should use ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula as it investigates a suspected case of infant botulism reported November 17, and the FDA confirmed that two lots (206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2) have been recalled; parents and caregivers should monitor infants for symptoms and seek care if needed.
FOX23Read more
Lifestyle
Food editor Peggy Grodinsky attempted to make traditional naan at home after watching chefs at Taj Indian Cuisine in South Portland use a tandoor oven to bake hundreds of naans daily.
She faced a smoky start and several missteps before using a cast-iron griddle and home oven to create a tasty, buttered naan— though it did not achieve the same char as the restaurant version.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
2025 The Polar Express Train Ride
Friday, November 21st, 2025 · 4 PM — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Standard pricing — Experience a magical journey to the North Pole on a festive train ride with storytelling and treats.
The Polar Express Train Ride
Saturday, November 22nd, 2025 · 6:30 PM — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticket required — Embark on a magical train journey to the North Pole with festive treats and storytelling.
Maine Mariners vs Norfolk Admirals
Sunday, November 23rd, 2025 · 3:00-4:30 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — $10 tickets — Enjoy an exciting hockey game with fun activities for all ages.
PMP Certification 4-Day Classroom Training
Tuesday, November 25th, 2025 · 9 a.m.–5 p.m. — Portland Maine — $1599 — Comprehensive PMP certification training offering real-world examples and lifetime access to recordings.
10th Annual Savage Family Turkey Trot 5K
Thursday, November 27th, 2025 · 9:00 a.m. — Bug Light Park — Registration fees apply — Celebrate the 10th annual community run/walk with family and friends this Thanksgiving morning.
Disney On Ice: Road Trip Adventures
Friday, November 28th, 2025 · 12:00 – 1:30 PM — Cross Insurance Arena — Ticket prices vary — Embark on a magical journey with beloved Disney characters in an ice show extravaganza.
2025 The Polar Express Train Ride
Sunday, November 30th, 2025 · 2:45 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Non-refundable tickets available — Experience a magical ride to the North Pole with hot chocolate, cookies, and holiday cheer.
Tom Rush Concert
Thursday, December 4th, 2025 · 8-11 p.m. — One Longfellow Square — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary sounds of Tom Rush, a pioneer of American folk music.
Jim Gaffigan - Everything is Wonderful Tour
Friday, December 5th, 2025 · 7-9 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Grammy-nominated comedian Jim Gaffigan as he brings his unique observations on life to Portland.
2025 The Polar Express Train Ride Experience
Saturday, December 6th, 2025 · 6:30 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Premium pricing available — Experience a magical journey to the North Pole with hot chocolate and holiday cheer.