Three days, three events - Weekend Spotlight
We're in the full throes of Halloween events, folks. This is the time of year when the professional attire you wear to work feels more like a costume than Dracula's cape or a Michael Myers mask waiting for you at home. But even if Halloween isn't your thing (we do try to be inclusive here at Maine Coast Life, but seriously ... how is that possible?), there's more than enough going on now that autumn is starting to boil over. Here are a couple of events to consider as you're building your weekend.
See the full events calendar here.
Halloween: After Dark
Horror fans, prepare for a night of thrills and chills. Halloween: After Dark comes to town on Friday, Oct. 23, from 5 to 11 p.m., at Bissell Brothers Brewery in Portland. Hosted by Night Frights LA, this 21-and-older event celebrates John Carpenter's 1978 slasher classic with a big-screen showing of "Halloween," independent horror shorts, local vendors, trivia, prizes, and a red carpet to strut your guts. The brewery also offers $5 pours of the annual Spooky Substance release and other Halloween-themed food and cocktail specials, so come hang with other genre enthusiasts for a night of pure fright. Admission is free, but tickets are required.
Howl-O-Ween dog adoption event
If you took a survey of all Maine residents and asked them to list their favorite things in life, it's almost guaranteed that two answers would top the list: dogs and beer. Howl-O-Ween brings a tail-wagging afternoon of adoption opportunities to Definitive Brewing Co. in Portland on Saturday, Oct. 24. Hosted in partnership with The Maine Dog Rescue, the event invites dog lovers to meet adorable pups searching for their forever homes. Enjoy the festive, dog-friendly atmosphere while sipping brews and getting to know your potential new best friend. A dog costume contest kicks off at 1 p.m., adding extra Halloween fun to the festivities. The event runs from noon to 4 p.m., and admission is free.
PMA Films: The Work in Progress with Ian Cheney
Fun doesn't always have to include alcohol. What's life without expanding your social consciousness? Explore the state of American democracy, identity, and community through "The Work in Progress," a new documentary directed by Maine filmmaker Ian Cheney. The Portland Museum of Art will be screening the film on Sunday, Oct. 25, at 3 p.m. The 100-minute documentary brings together strangers from different generations and backgrounds to discuss the country's challenges, shared experiences, and hopes for the future. Guided by questions from executive producer Robert Reich, these conversations offer a thought-provoking look at what unites Americans and what lies ahead. Stay after the screening for a discussion with Cheney.