In case you haven’t heard, the groundhog saw its shadow yesterday, so six more weeks of winter it is! The New York Times took a closer look at this often misunderstood rodent and highlighted the work of scientists at the Gilsland Farm Audubon Center in Falmouth. Whether you believe in the groundhog’s weather predicting skills or just enjoy an excuse to watch the Bill Murray movie, here’s our roundup for this weekend in Maine:

Something to Do: 

Are you looking for a new winter activity? Earn your turns  by giving ski touring a try at Mt. Abram with Inclusive Ski Touring! Featuring specialized ski gear that allows you to hike up the hill (instead of taking a ski lift), ski touring (or skinning) lets you get a good workout in while learning a new skill. This Sunday, join either the sunrise tour, which meets at 6:30 a.m. and hits the snow at 7 a.m., or the afternoon tour, which meets at 10:30 a.m. and leaves from the base of Mt. Abram at 11 a.m. 

When: 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday
Where: 308 Howe Hill Rd., Greenwood

Somewhere to Go: 

This Saturday, bundle up and head over to Orchard Ridge Farm in Gorham for New Moon Stargazing. The Orchard Ridge team will be setting up multiple telescopes around the farm for viewing constellations only seen in the winter sky. Plus, food and beverages will be available for purchase from the Farm Store, and Smokey and Brines will be selling barbecue to help keep the chill at bay. 

When: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday 
Where: 236 Sebago Lake Rd., Gorham

Something to Eat: 

The Frying Dutchman, located in the Public Market House in Portland, has been making waves with its Dutch-inspired french fry specials! Brave the cold this Saturday and treat yourself to their decadent brunch special featuring Dutch fries, sauteed spinach, a poached egg, and hollandaise sauce, paired with a mimosa mocktail made with Sweetser’s cider. 

When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday
Where: 28 Monument Square, Portland 

Something to Drink: 

At this point in the winter, we start to crave fresh, tropical flavors reminiscent of summer days. Thanks to the opening of smoothie and juice bar The Grateful Cup earlier this week, we don’t have to wait to fulfill that wish! With smoothies like Tropicali Blues and Raspberry Magnolia on the menu, as well as fresh juices, wellness shots, and salads, you’ll be feeling summery in no time. 

When: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily
Where: 46 Veranda St., Portland

Something to See: 

It’s not often you see scientific data and watercolor painting intertwined, but South Portland–based artist and scientist Jill Pelto has turned it into an artform! Her latest exhibit, Climate [In] Action, focuses on the effects of climate change in Maine, and is currently on view at Engine in Biddeford until February 10. This Friday, Pelto will be hosting a reception and workshop with Biddeford’s Climate Task Force that will include activities like making your own data art. 

When: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday
Where: 163 Main St., Biddeford

Want More?

Subscribe to our newsletters to catch The Maine Weekender in your inbox on Thursdays!