It may not feel exactly like summer just yet, but it's on its way! And, with the arrival of summer comes the best of Maine - locally grown produce, freshly cut flowers and foods prepared with love and brought to your local town. One of my favorite things about Maine is the taste of our fresh food. But, even more than what we produce, there's something special about a place that makes sure we have access to it. If you love supporting local farmers almost as much as you love eating delicious, homegrown food, check out your local farmers market. Here, from south to north, are a few options to start you off.
This is such a lovely market! This bustling, happy market brings Monument Square alive with all the fruit and veggies you can imagine, along with juices, pastries, flowers and pickled foods. All the vendors are great, but don't miss my personal favorite - Fresh Start Farms. This vendor is a collective of immigrant and refugee farmers who are part of a farmer-training program that empowers new Americans to launch independent farm businesses. They accept credit and debit cards as well as EBT/SNAP payments.
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Check out all the vendors Wednesdays 7am-1pm from April 27th to November 23rd. In the winter, you can visit the market on Saturdays 7am-1pm from December 23rd to April 22nd at 84 Cove Street.
2. Portland Farmers' Market - Weekends, Deering Oaks Park, Portland
The weekend version of the Portland Farmers' Market deserved its own listing simply because the feel is so different. While the Monument Square version certainly allows for meandering from stall to stall, the weekend market just seems to have a slower pace. Enjoy both the offerings as well as the greenery of the park. You can grab all the fixings for a picnic and set up a blanket right there and then. Visit the weekend market on Saturdays 7am - 1pm from April 30th to November 28th. They accept credit and debit cards as well as EBT/SNAP payments.
3. Brunswick Topsham Land Trust Farmers Market, Crystal Spring Farm at 277 Pleasant Hill Road, Brunswick
This stalwart market brings together two towns to create a market unlike any other. With offerings such as vegetables, dairy, meat, fish, baked goods and artisanal and prepared foods, you'll be able to spend the day not only browsing but chatting with local folks. Visit them on Saturdays 8:30am to 12:30pm from the beginning of May to the first Saturday of November. They accept EBT/SNAP and WIC payments.
4. Belfast Farmers Market, 256 High Street, Belfast
One of the best selections of organic fruits and veggies you'll find can be found in Belfast. Established in 1980, it operates as a non-profit membership organization that oversees the establishment of market guidelines, sets quality standards, promotes the market, and encourages growth of the regional food supply. You'll find seasonal foods in both the summer (Fridays, from May through October 9am-1pm) and winter (Fridays, November through March 9am-1pm). They accept credit and debit cards as well as EBT/SNAP payments.
5. Rockland Farmers' Market, Harbor Park, Rockland
This market is a great option for families. In addition to all the incredible options that come with a local farmers' market of this scale, this year they're adding a program for kids. From July 2nd to September 10th,
kids can learn to shop at the farmers’ market. This means understanding how to make decisions for purchasing and it allows them to start early with a love of fresh local foods. And, this program is completely free! Visit the Rockland Farmers' Market on Thursdays 9am - 1pm from May 14th to October 29th. And, if you're an early bird, you can check the selection beginning at 8:30am.
You won't find a happier bunch of folks than at the Union Farmers' Market. Located in the Union Common, in the heart of town, you'll find locals with bread, milk, eggs, meats, cheeses, fruits and pastries. And, of course, lobster! In addition to food, there are plenty of handmade goods to take home. And, if you like your farmers' market to be entertaining, each Friday has a different theme. Check them out on Fridays 3-6pm from May 20th to October 14th. Click here to learn more about their vendors.
7. Lincoln Farmers' and Artisans' Market, 75 Main Street, Lincoln
You'll find all the requisite fruits and veggies here, but this downtown Lincoln market truly shines with their crafts and art. From custom wood pieces to jewelry and paintings, this is a lovely place to enjoy a day. Visit them on Fridays and Saturdays 9am-1pm, from mid-May to the end of October.
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8. Bangor Farmers' Market, Across from the Library, Bangor
Bringing you fresh, local produce and flowers all year long, the Bangor Farmers' Market is one of the best in the area. Visit them Sundays 11am - 2pm from May to November. They accept credit and debit cards as well as EBT/SNAP payments.
9. Orono Farmers' Market, Steam Plant Parking Lot, University of Maine, Orono
The Orono market is one of the biggest in the state. Sitting along the Stillwater River, this also just might be one of the most lovely to look at. You'll find upwards of 30 vendors selling everything you'd expect at a large Maine farmers' market. Visit them on Saturdays 9am to 12pm from May 7th to November 19th. They change locations, hours and opening days depending on the time of year, so be sure to check their website for accurate information.
10. Eastport Farmer's Market, 141 Water Street, Eastport
Being in Eastport means you're near some of the best farms in Maine. Lucky you. To browse the selection of what's in the area, head to this market located in the parking lot of the new Eastport Welcome Center/Eastport Port Authority at 141 Water St. Beginning in mid-June, you'll find a great variety of fresh, local produce, gourmet herbs & spices. Not enough for you? You can also grab yourself some eggs, goat cheese, garlic, fruits & berries, homemade breads and assorted baked goods. Picnic tables are available for enjoying your food at the market. They accept credit and debit cards as well as EBT/SNAP payments.
The Market is held Saturdays, 11:00am-1:00pm, from mid June to mid October.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
As the weather warms up, it’s getting close to berry-picking season in Maine! What’s better than picking your own fresh berries at a you-pick berry farm in Maine during the summer? If you’re looking for a wonderful place to pick berries to your heart’s content, you’ve got to check out Goss Berry Farm in Mechanic Falls.
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If you’re looking for a fantastic you-pick farm in Maine and want the freshest berries ever, head to Goss Berry Farm where you can pick buckets of berries that are as plump and tasty as can be.
When you arrive on a sunny summer day and see row upon row of berries waiting to plucked, you’ll know you’re in for a treat. Bring the whole family and make a day trip of it.
Picking berries straight off the vine is a lovely way to get in touch with nature and the connection between it and the food we eat. It’s like getting back to basics. They make my mouth water just looking at them!
You’ll want to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and may want to wear latex gloves so your fingers don’t get stained. After all, berries are some of nature’s best dyes. Imagine these on top of some ice cream!
You can bring home a ton of berries for a very reasonable price and you’ll love making preserves, pies, and pastries, and just eating them as a snack. Be sure to freeze a bunch for smoothies and to put on top of your oatmeal or pancakes.
Berries aren’t the only things available at this farm. You can also find flowers, peaches, pumpkins, and much more during the different harvesting seasons of the year. Keep coming back for more scrumptious produce!
Have you ever had the pleasure of picking berries at Goss Berry Farm in Mechanic Falls? Do you have a favorite berry farm in Maine? Let us know in the comments. To get the latest updates about what’s in season, follow Goss Berry Farm on Facebook.
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Have you ever wanted to camp on a farm? If so, pack up your tent and head out to this gem:
