There’s nothing quite like a small-town summer. From farmer’s markets to festivals, the Mahoosuc Region is anything but quiet in the “off-season.” Whether you live here year-round or visit seasonally, you won’t want to miss these exciting events and offerings in Bethel and beyond.
Farm-Fresh Foods
We are fortunate to have many local farms and businesses that sell their goods on a weekly basis in the summer for access to fresh and delicious foods. Check out the Greenwood Farmer’s Market every Friday, and the Bethel Farmer’s Market every Saturday.
Art & Artisan Goods
It wouldn’t be summer in New England without craft fairs and antique shops. You can find appreciate fine craftsmanship at the Shy, Novice, and Closeted Art Show (July 1), the Western Maine Gem & Jewelry Show (July 8-9), Bethel Summerfest (July 15), and the Mahoosuc Arts and Ag Tour (September 10). The Museums of the Bethel Historical Society also have a number of events around historical crafts available this summer. But, if you can’t make it for one of these events, there are always rare finds at Steam Mill Antiques, Bennett’s Antiques and Collectibles, and Elements Art Gallery in Phillbrook Place.
Favorite Summer Events
You likely know and love some of the big events that draw visitors to the region in the summer months. From festivals to muddy obstacle races, these events are fun and family-friendly. So, don’t miss New England Forest Rally (July 14-15), Bethel Summerfest (July 15), Tough Mountain Challenge (July 22), Monarch Butterfly Festival (August 12-13), New England Trappers Weekend (August 18-19), Maine Brew Fest (September 16-17), Bethel Harvestfest (September 16), and the Jeep Jamboree (September 28-30).
Outdoor Action
Of course, outdoor recreation is what we’re known for here in the Mahoosuc Region. Hike around, including sections of the Appalachian Trail that crosses through our neck of the woods, hit the mountain bike trails at Mt. Abram or Inland Woods + Trails, tee off at the Sunday River Golf Club, Bethel Resort & Suites (or even Big Adventure Mini Golf), or paddle the many waterways winding through the region. Guide services are available for many of these activities if you’re looking to learn.
Indoor Fun
You can also find plenty of indoor activities if the weather isn’t cooperating or you’re looking to escape the heat. The Bethel Library Book Club at the Grace Note Inn meets regularly throughout the summer, and the Gem Theater has special concerts, comedians, and more on the schedule, in addition to summer blockbusters. Plus, we always love an afternoon at River Lanes bowling alley or exploring pieces of the moon at Maine Mineral and Gem Museum.
If you came to know and love Bethel and the surrounding towns during the winter as a skier or snowboarder, you can clearly see that many folks come for the winters but stay for the bustling summers in Maine’s most beautiful mountain village.
