Weekend Recap in Bangor
The Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race came back Saturday, and so did the cameras.
That face says everything.
Saturday's Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race was cold, fast, and unforgiving. This paddler found that out the hard way.
More than 400 photos from the day are now in a gallery online.
THIS WEEKEND IN BANGOR
The circus is in town. Literally.
Anah Shrine Facebook
The Anah Shrine Circus rolls into the Cross Insurance Center this weekend for three days of big-top fun. Multiple shows Saturday (10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 7 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m. and 3 p.m.), plus a late-night Club show Friday through Sunday at 9 p.m. for the adults in the room. Tickets at Ticketmaster.
The Queen Drag Show hits 128 Main St. Saturday night at 7 p.m. Doors should open around 6:30. Tickets available online. Good night out.
The House of Entertainment Facebook
Your Bangor Events Digest
April 24-May 1, 2026
Presented by:
🗓️ Your Bangor Event Digest: April 24th - May 1st, 2026!
Hello Bangor! Get ready for an exciting week packed with diverse events across our wonderful city. From community gatherings and workshops to live performances and sports, there's something for everyone. Dive into our daily rundown to plan your adventures!
Friday, April 24th
Bangor Contradance
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: Downtown Bangor
Swing into the weekend with a lively contradance! A fantastic opportunity to meet new people and enjoy traditional folk dancing.
Anah Shrine Circus: Club- Fri Apr 24th - Sun Apr 26th
Venue: Cross Insurance Center
Experience the magic and wonder of the Anah Shrine Circus! A spectacular show for all ages, running through the weekend.
James Austin Johnson
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: Cross Insurance Center
Don't miss a night of laughter with comedian James Austin Johnson. Get ready for an evening of unique humor and impressions.
Adult Drop-In Basketball
Venue: Bangor Parks & Recreation
Time: 6:00 PM
Enjoy a casual game of basketball! Perfect for adults looking to stay active and have fun.
Saturday, April 25th
Saturday Story Stop
Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: Bangor Public Library (via www.bangor.sevents.events)
Explore resources and upcoming activities at the Bangor Public Library. Click through to discover what's happening.
The Queen Drag Show
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: 128 Main St., Bangor
Prepare for an dazzling evening of entertainment at The Queen Drag Show! A vibrant performance you won't want to miss.
Marriage Full of Life Experience 2026
Time: 9:00 AM
Venue: 1033 Broadway, Bangor
Invest in your relationship at this enriching experience designed for couples. Gain insights and tools for a fulfilling partnership.
Black Girl Book Fair
Time: 12:00 AM (All Day)
Venue: Bangor
Celebrate literature and community at the Black Girl Book Fair. Discover new authors and support diverse voices.
Meet A Scientist: Celebrating Earth Day
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Binette Park, Old Town
Engage with scientists and learn more about our planet in celebration of Earth Day. A great educational opportunity for all ages.
Bangor Blitz Scavenger Hunt
Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: Bangor
Explore Bangor in a fun and interactive way with the Bangor Blitz Scavenger Hunt. Gather your team and uncover the city's hidden gems!
Maine Licensed Denturist Association Annual Conference
Time: 8:00 AM
Venue: Hollywood Casino, Bangor
Professionals in the field are invited to the annual conference for networking, learning, and industry updates.
Random Acts of Kindness Spree in Bangor
Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: Bangor
Spread positivity and make a difference in our community by participating in the Random Acts of Kindness Spree.
Bangor's European Market
Time: 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Venue: Ingrid's German Gift Shop - 117 Buck Street
Discover unique goods, delicious treats, and vibrant culture at Bangor's European Market. A delightful experience for shoppers and foodies alike.
Spring 2026 Belly Dance Hafla
Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: Spiral Studio, Bangor
Enjoy a beautiful showcase of belly dance performances. Celebrate the art and culture of this ancient dance form.
Evolve ~ An Embodied Movement & Reflection Experience
Venue: Spiral Studio, Bangor
Time: 4:00 PM
Connect with your body and mind through this immersive movement and reflection session. Find balance and self-awareness.
Sunday, April 26th
Beginner Pole
Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Curious about pole fitness? This introductory class is perfect for beginners looking to try something new and exciting.
Intro to Pole
Time: 12:00 PM
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Another great opportunity to get started with pole dance and fitness in a supportive and fun environment.
Burlesque Basics
Time: 1:00 PM
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Learn the fundamentals of burlesque in this fun and empowering class. Explore movement, confidence, and expression.
Circus Fitness
Time: 2:00 PM
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Get a unique workout inspired by circus arts. Build strength, flexibility, and agility in a dynamic class.
Sunday Community Jam
Time: 2:00 PM
Venue: 2 Feet Brewing
Bring your instruments or just your ears to this open community jam session. A wonderful chance to share and enjoy music together.
Evolve — A Spiral Journey
Time: 5:30 PM
Venue: Spiral Studio
Continue your journey of self-discovery and growth through this embodied movement and reflection experience.
Race Day - April 26th
11:45 AM
Venue: Bass Park
Head out for an exciting day of racing! Check the link for specific details on events and times.
Dance & Sound Bath Adventure
Time: 12:30 PM
Venue: Maine Yoga Adventures, Bangor
Embark on an engaging and playful adventure featuring dynamic dance and a calming sound bath. A unique way to relax and rejuvenate.
Monday, April 27th
Stained Glass for Beginners
Time: 9:00 AM
Venue: H.O.M.E. Inc. Stained Glass Studio, Orland
Unleash your creativity and learn the beautiful art of stained glass in this beginner-friendly workshop.
Monday Karaoke at Paddy Murphy's
Venue: Paddy Murphy’s
Time: 7:00 PM
Sing your heart out or cheer on local talent at Paddy Murphy's popular Monday Karaoke night.
Full S.T.E.A.M Ahead (Morning)
Venue: Bangor Public Library
Time: 11:00 AM
Engage young minds with exciting S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) activities designed to inspire curiosity.
Beginner Lyra and Aerial Silks
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Time: 6:00 PM
Soar to new heights and discover the grace and strength of aerial arts in this beginner class for lyra and silks.
Chimera Coffee Trivia
Venue: Chimera Coffee
Time: 7:00 PM
Test your knowledge and enjoy a fun evening of trivia at Chimera Coffee. Grab a coffee and challenge your friends!
City Council Workshop
Time: 05:15 PM
Venue: 73 Harlow St., Bangor
Attend the City Council Workshop to stay informed on local government discussions and decisions.
Tuesday, April 28th
Bouncing Baby Story Time
Time: 10:15 AM
Venue: Bangor Public Library
Bring your little ones for a delightful story time filled with songs, rhymes, and fun for babies and caregivers.
Tiny Tots Storytime
Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: Bangor Public Library
A special story time crafted for toddlers, offering engaging stories and activities to foster early literacy.
Songwriters' Open Mic
Time: 2:00 PM
Venue: 2 Feet Brewing
Share your original music or discover new local talent at the Songwriters' Open Mic night.
Tuesday Live Irish Sessions & Open Mic
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: Paddy Murphy’s
Enjoy authentic Irish music or take the stage yourself at this lively open mic and session night.
Pole Conditioning
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Strengthen your body and enhance your pole skills with this dedicated conditioning class.
Floor & Flow Class
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Explore fluid movement and ground-based techniques in this unique Floor & Flow class, perfect for dancers and movers.
Personnel Committee
Time: 05:15 PM
Venue: 73 Harlow Street, Bangor
The Personnel Committee will hold a meeting to discuss city personnel matters. Public attendance is welcome.
Advisory Committee on Racial Equity, Inclusion and Human Rights
Time: 06:00 PM
Venue: 73 Harlow St., Bangor
Join the Advisory Committee as they work towards fostering a more equitable and inclusive community.
Wednesday, April 29th
Tech Tutoring
Time: 2:00 PM
Venue: Bangor Public Library
Need help with your devices or software? Get personalized assistance at this helpful tech tutoring session.
Salt-Oke: Its not Karaoke, Its Salt-Oke
Time: 8:00 PM
Venue: Salt North Taproom
Experience a unique twist on karaoke! Come sing your favorite tunes and enjoy a fun night out.
Derry-Free Horror Book Club: Wolf Worm
Time: 7:30 PM
Venue: The Briar Patch
Join fellow horror enthusiasts to discuss "Wolf Worm" at this special book club. All are welcome, especially Stephen King fans.
City Council Budget Workshop
Time: 05:15 PM
Venue: 73 Harlow St., Bangor
The City Council will hold a workshop to review and discuss the upcoming budget. Your input is valuable.
School Committee
Time: 07:00 PM
Venue: 73 Harlow St., Bangor
Attend the School Committee meeting to learn about and contribute to decisions affecting Bangor's educational system.
Thursday, April 30th
Mosaic class
Time: 9:30 AM
Venue: H.O.M.E Inc, Orland
Unleash your inner artist in this mosaic class. Learn techniques to create beautiful tiled artworks.
Next Chapter Book Club
Time: 2:00 PM
Venue: Bangor Public Library
Join the Next Chapter Book Club for engaging discussions and to explore new literary adventures together.
Beginner Pole Flow
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Discover the art of seamless movement on the pole in this beginner-friendly flow class.
Chair Burlesque
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Explore a sensual and empowering form of burlesque using a chair as your prop. All levels welcome.
Pole Clinic Class
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Focus on specific techniques or challenges in this specialized pole clinic designed to refine your skills.
Trivia Night at Nocturnem Draft Haus
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: Nocturnem Draft Haus
Gather your team and head to Nocturnem Draft Haus for a challenging and fun trivia night.
Belly Dance Class
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: Eye Candy Dance & Fitness Studio
Learn the captivating movements of belly dance in this enriching class. All experience levels are encouraged.
Fire of 1911: 115 Years Later Walking Tour
Time: 4:00 PM
Venue: Bangor Historical Society
Commemorate the 115th anniversary of Bangor's Great Fire of 1911 with a special walking tour exploring its history and impact.
Public Forum: Urban Forest Management Plan
Time: 05:00 PM
Venue: 647 Main Street, Bangor
Participate in a public forum to discuss Bangor's Urban Forest Management Plan and its impact on our green spaces.
Downtown Parking Advisory Committee
Time: 05:30 PM
Venue: 73 Harlow Street, Bangor
Attend the Downtown Parking Advisory Committee meeting to discuss parking solutions and policies in the city center.
Friday, May 1st
Husson Softball vs. SUNY Delhi
Venue: Husson University
Cheer on Husson Softball as they face SUNY Delhi in what promises to be an exciting game.
Korean Swordsmanship Beginners Class: First Class Free Friday
Time: 7:30 PM
Venue: Kishintaikan Dojo
Try your hand at Korean Swordsmanship with a free introductory class. Discover a martial art that combines discipline and grace.
First Friday Art Walks
Venue: Downtown Bangor
Stroll through downtown and explore local galleries and businesses showcasing art by talented local artists during this monthly event.
Tech Tutoring
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Bangor Public Library
Get expert assistance with your technology questions and troubleshoot any issues you might be facing.
Commission on Cultural Development
Time: 08:30 AM
Venue: 73 Harlow St., Bangor
The Commission on Cultural Development meets to discuss initiatives and projects enriching Bangor's cultural landscape.
Editor's Note:
What a packed week we have ahead! From enriching workshops and community discussions to vibrant performances and sporting events, Bangor is buzzing with activity. Make sure to click on the event links for the most up-to-date details, times, and any registration requirements.
Food Truck Frenzy at The Furniture Gallery
April 24 - Brick & Embers
April 25 - Food Truck Day - 10am-4pm
April 27 - Thai Lotus
April 28 - Mainely Taco
April 29 - Brick & Embers
April 30 - Brick & Embers
Dreamer Food | 97 Allen St., Fairmount Neighborhood
Two nurses. One food truck. Now a real restaurant.
Anik Derphilibossian grew up in Armenia, was raised in Lebanon, and came to Maine in 2021 as a registered nurse. She missed the food from home, so she started cooking it for friends. Then strangers. Then she bought a food truck with her best friend and fellow nurse, Kara Calor.
Dreamer Facebook
Dreamer Food debuted on the Bangor Waterfront in 2023 and opened its brick-and-mortar restaurant at 97 Allen St. in the Fairmount neighborhood this past February. The menu runs Armenian and Lebanese, with shawarma bowls, falafel, hummus, baklava, and cheesecake. The reviews have been loud and consistent: people love it.
They're open Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The limited hours are by design. Both owners still work full-time as nurses. That's not a quirk, it's the whole story. They built this thing on nights and weekends while caring for patients. And inside the restaurant, there's a "Dreamer Wall" where customers can write their own dream and pin it up. It's corny in the best possible way.
If you haven't been to 97 Allen St. yet, this is your week.
Robin & Jonathan Sandau | Design Wall Housing
Most people in Bangor have driven past a boarded-up house and thought nothing of it. Robin and Jonathan Sandau see something different: a chance.
Design Wall Housing, the nonprofit the couple founded, takes vacant and derelict homes and renovates them into supportive housing for people experiencing homelessness. Their first project, a two-family home on Smith Street, sat boarded up for years before they wrapped their hands around it. The first tenants moved in last May.
Robin describes their mission plainly: “It’s really about helping people remember that they matter.”
This weekend, they’re running a bottle drive with Damon’s Beverage and Redemption in Bangor. The drive runs Friday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and they’re also looking for volunteers. You can drop off cans and bottles, show up to help, or just learn more about what they’re doing. Sometimes the best thing you can do for your community is show up with a bag of returnables.
Free College. Real Money. Right Here.
Governor Mills signed a supplemental budget in Bangor earlier this month that makes the state’s free community college program permanent, and sends $300 affordability checks to Maine residents. Eastern Maine Community College is right here in Bangor. If you know someone who has been putting off going back to school, now is a very good time to mention it.
Also, Husson University held their 16th annual Research and Scholarship Day last week, with 750 students presenting 357 unique projects.
Presented by:
The Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race, covered in our last issue, is one of the longest-running canoe races in the country. But how long is the course from start to finish?
Ticks are back. ER visits for tick bites in Maine are up roughly 25% in April compared to this time last year. If you’re heading into the woods or tall grass this weekend, check yourself and your kids when you get home. The UMaine Cooperative Extension has a tick identification and testing lab if you find one, at extension.umaine.edu/ticks.
Free catalytic converter etching at EMCC. Eastern Maine Community College partnered with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles this week to offer free VIN etching on catalytic converters, a program aimed at curbing theft. EMCC automotive students do the work as part of their hands-on training. The event has already passed for this week, but they run it twice a year at EMCC and Southern Maine Community College campuses, so worth bookmarking for next time.
Bangor put a pause on data centers. The City Council voted unanimously this month to ban new data center developments in Bangor for six months while officials figure out how the facilities would affect city infrastructure, water, and electricity. It’s a quiet vote with big implications, and worth watching.
New engineering jobs coming to Hammond Street. A Florida-based engineering firm, R Cubed Engineering, is setting up an innovation division at 1178 Hammond St., focused on light manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and federal contract work. Local jobs, local address. More to come on that one.
Food Resources
If you or someone you know needs a meal or groceries, here are some places operating in Bangor right now. Call ahead to confirm hours before you go.
Salvation Army Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen, 65 South Park St. Meals Monday through Friday, 11:30am to 1pm. Food pantry Wednesdays and Fridays, 9 to 11am (walk-in). 207-535-9572.
Manna Ministry, 95 Center St. Hot meals Monday through Friday, 4 to 5pm. Food pantry Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 3 to 4pm.
Brick Church, 126 Union St. Meals Monday through Friday, 4:30 to 5:30pm. Clothes and showers also available Tuesday and Thursday, 10am to 2pm.
Bangor Area Homeless Shelter, 263 Main St. Soup kitchen daily at 11:45am. Food pantry Sunday and Tuesday, 1 to 4pm (one visit per month).
Bangor Food Pantry, 28 High St. (at Hammond Street Congregational Church). Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30am to noon. Bangor residents only.
Bangor Region YMCA, 17 Second St. Food pantry Tuesdays 6 to 8am, Thursdays 6 to 7:30pm, Saturdays 12:30 to 2:30pm.
Have an announcement, job posting, event, or local news tip for Queen City Weekly? Reply to this email or reach us at [email protected]. Paid listings coming soon.
See you next Friday. — Ken, Editor
Queen City Weekly | Greater Bangor, Maine