Community Events
Chamber members can submit events for publication by clicking the button below and completing the event submission form. Please limit event descriptions to 75 words or less.
ArtWaves MDI- Mommy and Me Ballet
Mommy and ME Ballet
Classes are held on Saturdays from 10-11 am in ArtWaves' Dance Studio.
An introduction to the foundations of classical ballet for young children alongside their caregivers. This class includes simple barre and center exercises, as well as creative movement activities. Students will explore dance in a supportive environment that fosters connection, family, and community.
Recommended dress code: Students should wear ballet slippers and form fitting clothing to best see body alignment. Hair should be tied back and out of face.
About your instructor:
Cate Pope is a dancer, choreographer, and performer from Mount Desert Island, Maine. She graduated from Bates College in 2025 with a B.A. in Dance Choreography and a concentration in Music and Culture. Cate began dancing at the age of three and has studied extensively in ballet, contemporary, and modern dance. She has trained with Robinson Ballet (2012 – 2021), as well as with Bossov Ballet, Broadway Dance Center, Joffrey Ballet, Nimbus Dance, and others.
During her undergraduate studies, she attended semester-long performing arts programs at Trinity La MaMa in New York City and Accademia dell’Arte in Italy. Since graduating, she has choreographed for MDI High School’s fall musical and currently choreographs for Connors Emerson’s show choir. She has also taught at the Summer Festival of the Arts and currently teaches at Two Shoes Dance. Cate continues to share her love for dance through teaching and creating work at the intersection of movement, music, and community.
Northeast Harbor Library -Pick Up Choir
All of us are built to sing! Join pianist, vocalist, and music educator Christina Spurling for this community sing-along. All of us are built to sing! Join the pick-up choir at the library! This program is all-ages; children 8 years old and younger may attend with a guardian. Register: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/16725297
Northeast Harbor Library -Author Talk
With "McNamara at War: A New History," former New York Times Washington bureau chief Philip Taubman and Pulitzer Prize–winning author William Taubman deliver a captivating and authoritative psychological portrait of Robert S. McNamara. Informed by newly discovered diaries, letters, and interviews with those closest to him, the authors uncover an emotionally tortured man—a man who mastered everything in life, until the Vietnam War mastered him. "McNamara at War is the winner of the 2026 New York Historical Zalaznick Book Prize in American History. Books will be available for sale and signing. Register: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/16538164
ArtWaves MDI- Introduction to Oil Painting with Rainey Rodriguez
June 19, Friday | 5:30 – 7 PM
June 20–21, Saturday & Sunday | 10 AM – 1 PM
Join ArtWaves Artist in Residence Rainey Rodriguez for a welcoming weekend introduction to oil painting designed especially for beginners and those with minimal painting experience. This Friday evening and weekend format allows participants to fully immerse themselves in the creative process, returning each day with fresh eyes while building skills and confidence in a relaxed community studio setting.
Through hands-on instruction and guided demonstrations, students will learn the foundations of oil painting, including underpainting, working with limited color palettes, paint application techniques, composition, and the traditional “fat over lean” approach used to create strong, lasting paintings. Rainey will also introduce students to the different brands of oil paints, brush types, painting surfaces, and mediums, helping demystify the materials and making oil painting approachable and enjoyable. https://www.artwavesmdi.org/event-6637118
ArtWaves MDI-Art Workshop
In this engaging two-hour workshop, students will explore the expressive possibilities of soft pastels through bold, gestural mark-making. Using the innovative Mi-Teintes Velvet paper—known for its uniquely textured surface—participants will create a dynamic landscape full of movement, color, and depth and bring home a 9 x 12 pastel painting.
For more information visit www.artwavesmdi.org
ArtWaves MDI-Layers of the Land – Abstracting the Acadia Landscape Part 1
In this hands-on workshop at ArtWaves MDI, participants will explore the textures, colors, and patterns of Acadia National Park through a curated collection of found natural objects—such as stones, driftwood fragments, dried grasses, bark, and sea-worn materials. Using these objects as visual and tactile references, we will examine how shape, repetition, contrast, and surface inform our understanding of place.
For more information visit www.artwavesmdi.org
ArtWaves MDI-Flash in the Pans Concert
Fun, festive evening featuring an art show along with a steel drum dance. Come visit the ArtWaves campus and leave with an amazing project and some fun memories!
For more information visit www.artwavesmdi.org
Northeast Harbor Library -PBS Documentary: The American Revolution
Join us for an excerpt screening of the new PBS Documentary by Ken Burns exploring the founding of the United States of America, with a focus on the spirit of service as a core American value. A conversation reflecting on the film and the role of service in civic engagement will follow, facilitated by Library Director Amy Wisehart and a representative of the Town of Mount Desert. Register: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/16859648
ArtWaves MDI-Layers of the Land – Abstracting the Acadia Landscape Part 2
This second session expands on the first workshop by focusing on living systems within Acadia’s ecosystem, again using found natural objects and visual references rather than field observation. Participants will examine materials such as feathers, shells, pine needles, lichen, and seaweed forms, discussing how these elements reveal patterns of adaptation, resilience, and interconnection. We will examine some of the indigenous species unique to Acadia National Park, with attention to their habitats. Through sketching and material exploration, participants will learn how to abstract organic forms—translating botanical and ecological structures into simplified marks, layered shapes, and repeated motifs
For more information visit www.artwavesmdi.org
Northeast Harbor Library -BHMF Opera Preview
Maestro Nathaniel Meyer of the New Opera Company of Boston will give a free behind-the-scenes look at the 2026 BHMF Opera Production - the Mozart double bill of Bastien-Bastiènne and The Impresario. Hear insights about the company's creative process writing the new libretto (the original was lost) and learn about the exciting award-winning cast of singers and actors, with striking analysis of the music and live performances by Isaac Bray, Katelyn Parker Bray, and pianist Christina Spurling. Register: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/barharbormusicfestival/2232364
Northeast Harbor Library -Author Talk
Join Emmy Award winning producer and history teacher David Felsen to discuss his new book "New York City Monuments of Black Americans: A History and Guide. New York City is blessed with an incredible array of public sculptures. One overlooked aspect of this collection is its monuments of Black Americans, each with its own remarkable story. With this book and presentation, David Felsen reveals the stories behind thirty inspiring monuments that have endured, as well as how they found their place in the city’s history. Books will be available for sale and signing. Register: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/16634275
Mahjongg Community Play
Join Mah Jongg players from all around MDI for a fun afternoon of social play, lite lunch, raffle and Chinese Auction! RSVP and payment prior to July 16th.
ArtWaves-Dance Discovery Week
Join in a welcoming, all-levels program for students in grades 5–12. Meeting 8/3-7, Monday - Friday from 9 AM–12 PM, dancers will explore the basics of ballet alongside modern and contemporary choreography in a supportive, encouraging environment.
Whether you’re brand new to dance or looking to build on your existing skills, this week-long intensive offers a chance to learn technique, improve coordination, and gain confidence in your movement. Dancers will develop skills they can carry with them while being encouraged to step outside their comfort zones.
Come ready to move, learn, and explore!
Meet your instructor: Cate Pope
Cate is a dancer, choreographer, and performer from Mount Desert Island, Maine. She graduated from Bates College in 2025 with a B.A. in Dance Choreography and a concentration in Music and Culture. Cate began dancing at the age of three and has studied extensively in ballet, contemporary, and modern dance. She has trained with Robinson Ballet (2012 – 2021), as well as with Bossov Ballet, Broadway Dance Center, Joffrey Ballet, Nimbus Dance, and others.
During her undergraduate studies, she attended semester-long performing arts programs at Trinity La MaMa in New York City and Accademia dell’Arte in Italy. Since graduating, she has choreographed for MDI High School’s fall musical and currently choreographs for Connors Emerson’s show choir. She has also taught at the Summer Festival of the Arts and currently teaches at Two Shoes Dance. Cate continues to share her love for dance through teaching and creating work at the intersection of movement, music, and community.
https://www.artwavesmdi.org/event-6626955
ArtWaves En Plein Air Painting
Event Description: Experience the magic of Mount Desert Island as you paint En Plein Air.
A basic review of outdoor set-up, palette organization, composition, and atmospheric color theory will be covered; however, most of the time spent together will be “hands-on” in the field with individual instruction at four select locations on the Island’s beautiful coves and shores.
The half-day sessions provide you the opportunity to work in the mornings with the instructor, leaving you the afternoons to continue to work independently and process the day’s lesson. Pack a lunch and paint all day!
All Levels Welcome. Experience with drawing from observation is helpful.
https://www.artwavesmdi.org/event-6624705.
10 Aug 2026, 8:30 AM – 13 Aug 2026, 12:30 PM
Your Instructor
Christine grew up in Poughkeepsie, NY. She received an A.B. in English from Bryn Mawr College in 1991. In 1995, she earned a Certificate in Painting and Printmaking from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and was awarded a Louis S. Ware Memorial Scholarship for European Travel. Soon after, Christine was awarded her first major exhibition through the Fleisher Challenge Competition in Philadelphia. While Artist-in-Residence at the Fleisher Art Memorial from 1997 to 2002, she began teaching painting. She moved to Brooklyn, NY in early 2003, to earn a master’s degree in fine arts from Brooklyn College. Between 2009 and 2019, Christine traveled to and painted in Havana, Cuba; County Cork, Ireland; Oldwick, New Jersey; Mount Desert Island, Maine; Tuscany, Italy; and Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. In March 2020, she returned to Puerto Rico and sheltered-in-place there during the Coronavirus pandemic for five months. In 2023, Christine received a grant from the Schaevitz Foundation and attended a printmaking residency at Scuola Internazionale di Grafica in Venice, Italy. She lives and work in Brooklyn, NY and paints in Maine in the summers.
Artwaves-MDI Ceramic Dinner Plates Workshop
Summer is served! Create a set of truly one-of-a-kind ceramic dinner plates in this fun and inspiring three-part pottery workshop! Perfect for beginners and experienced makers alike, this class will guide you through the process of designing, building, decorating, and glazing your own handmade functional art.
Using slab construction techniques, you’ll learn how to hand build beautiful plates for serving or dining with organic shapes and personal style. We’ll explore surface design ideas from the very beginning, so your pieces become both functional and expressive.
For more information visit www.artwavesmdi.org
ArtWaves MDI-Wire Tree Sculpture Workshop
Join artist and sculptor Ryan Kelley for a two-hour workshop where you'll learn to create your own wire tree sculpture. Ryan will guide you through the process of transforming wire into a unique tree, mounted on a rock you provide (about the size of an adult closed fist, or roughly 3.5" x 3.5").
If you don't have a suitable rock, we can provide one for you.
Price includes $15 materials fee. All participants must be 21 years+ to sip alcohol | BYOB
For information visit www.artwavesmdi.org
ArtWaves MDI- Create a Ceramic Wall Niche
Create a ceramic wall niche filled with warmth, texture, and personal style in this inspiring hand building workshop.
Designed to hold a contain what you value, a ring, a tea light candle, these decorative wall pieces feature pierced patterns that allow light to shine through, casting beautiful shadows and creating a cozy atmosphere in any space.
This workshop is beginner friendly and no clay experience is needed. Students will be guided step-by-step through the process of transforming raw clay into a finished ceramic piece while learning foundational slab construction and handbuilding techniques.
For more information visit www.artwavesmdi.org
Friends of Acadia-Plant Sale
Help support the Wild Gardens of Acadia by shopping at the Wild Gardens plant sale on June 13th from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church in Bar Harbor. Native Plants, Perennials, Veggie Seedlings, Annuals, and more. Proceeds from the sale fund the maintenance and operations of the Wild Gardens of Acadia, which display more than 400 of Acadia National Park's native plants spread over 13 habitats. For more information, visit the Events page at www.friendsofacadia.org
Northeast Harbor Library-Sports Gear Swap
Free gear provided by community donors and assistance mending your much loved belongings. Accepting advance donations of sports gear in good condition during open hours starting May 16. Repairs offered will depend on final list of volunteers, but currently include appliances, bicycles and small furniture. Offered in collaboration with Mount Desert Sustainability Committee and A Climate to Thrive. More info and donation guidelines: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/15857510
ArtWaves MDI-Make Your Own Mosaic Pieces Workshop
What if you could create your own mosaic pieces ? Each student will work with clay to create and paint thin tiles appropriate for mosaics. Instead of relying on commercial materials, students will learn how to design and make custom ceramic components that reflect their own ideas, stories, colors, and textures.
Participants will be introduced to the basics of glazing bisque ceramic tiles as well as hand-forming clay tiles using a variety of decorative and surface design techniques. Through carving, texture, stamps, layering, words, imagery, and colorful glazes, students will create original mosaic elements that cannot be found anywhere else.
For information visit www.artwavesmdi.org
Northeast Harbor Library -Climate Presentation
Lisa Mechaley (a lifelong sustainability educator and naturalist) and Andy Revkin (an environmental journalist, including 21 years at the New York Times) will draw on decades of experience in education, news media and music to describe fresh ways to engage with audiences, boost community resilience and foster clean energy progress. Too often, the goal is telling a better story - a one-way process - when what’s most needed is better conversations. Lisa will describe teaching models that engage students and teachers in a co-learning journey. Andy will offer ideas gleaned in his many years of hosting difficult discussions that can make your online experience more productive. And he’ll offer some musical ideas as well. Register: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/16751992
ArtWaves MDI-Art Workshop
Transfer reality to artistry with ink, wax and watercolor on delicate rice-paper. Learn ancient techniques, play with layering color and go home with two wonderful paintings.
For more information visit www.artwavesmdi.org
ArtWaves MDI-Intro to Choreography
An exploration of contemporary and modern techniques with a focus on choreography. The class begins with a warmup that includes stretching, light cardio and across the floor sequences. Students will then learn and create choreography, emphasizing collaboration, creativity and community.
Modern / Contemporary: Students should wear athletic clothing that’s comfortable for full range of movement. We will dance barefoot and occasionally in socks. Hair should be tied back and out of face.
More info available at www.artwavesmdi.org
ArtWaves MDI-Intro to Ballet
An introduction to classical ballet techniques for dancers of all levels. This class begins with barre exercises and moves to center work including across the floor combinations. Students will develop a strong understanding of ballet positions and terminology, while building strength, coordination, and musicality.
Recommended dress code: Students should wear ballet slippers and form fitting clothing to best see body alignment. Hair should be tied back and out of face.
More info available at www.artwavesmdi.org
ArtWaves MDI-Mix the Right Color the First Time, Every Time in Watercolor
Interested in learning more about color mixing in watercolor - such as how to match greens with what you see in nature ? This is the workshop for you! No prior painting experience necessary.
Artist Suzy Kopf will demonstrate color theory exercises to get you confident about mixing up your desired colors the first time, every time. Participants will create their own color charts and have time to make a painting from a Maine themed still life set up applying what they learned. All painting materials provided, just bring a snack for the break. For more information visit:https://www.artwavesmdi.org/event-6593732?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=6/5/2026
ArtWaves MDI- Botanical Painting: Maine’s Wildflowers
Enjoy Maine’s June wildflower blooms with this approachable introduction to the history and methodologies of botanical painting.
Artist Suzy Kopf will demonstrate 3 scientific approaches of painting plant matter in watercolor, cover the fascinating global history of this tradition and introduce some contemporary approaches in depicting nature. Leave with a completed piece or a good start on your next mantle artwork with the confidence to keep going! No prior painting experience necessary.
All painting and drawing materials are supplied. Just bring a snack for the break and enjoy ArtWaves tea selection. For information:
https://www.artwavesmdi.org/event-6595748
ArtWaves MDI- Watercolor Collaging Mount Desert Island’s Landscapes
Come replicate your favorite Mount Desert vista in watercolor collage! Combining the ease of collage with the soft washes of watercolor, this technique offers endless possibilities for the experienced artist and novice alike. In this workshop artist Suzy Kopf covers color matching, creating realistic textures with watercolors and the basics of using paper scraps to make a whole new artwork. Bring in your own photo to work from or choose from one of ours. Leave with a completed piece or a good start on your next mantle artwork with the confidence to keep going! No prior drawing experience necessary; tracing is encouraged for this technique.
Child participants should be confident with exacto knives and must be supervised by a guardian. All materials for painting and collaging are provided. Just bring a snack for the break and enjoy ArtWaves tea selection! https://www.artwavesmdi.org/event-6564609
ArtWaves MDI- Drawing Maine: Colored Pencil Still Life
In this still life drawing workshop, participants will explore the foundations of using colored pencils to build rich, dimensional color through thoughtful layering. Working from a Maine themed still life set up, class members will learn how to gradually develop hue, value, and texture using colored pencils. Artist instructor Suzy Kopf will cover a variety of techniques including burnishing, blending, and color mixing directly on the paper to create depth and luminosity. Special attention will be given to observing subtle shifts in shadow, highlight, and reflected color.
This class is ideal for beginners as well as artists looking to strengthen their drawing practice with colored pencil. By the end of the session, you’ll leave with a finished study and a clear understanding of how to create depth through layered color in this exciting, and extremely approachable medium. For more information :
https://www.artwavesmdi.org/event-6595707
Northeast Harbor Library -Movie Night
Kick back, relax, and enjoy a free movie screening selected and hosted by librarian and movie collection curator Kate Young. Gathering on the fourth Wednesday of each month (through May) this series will include a mix of nostalgic favorites and recent hits projected on our 15 ft screen. Free popcorn provided; outside snacks welcome. End time will vary depending on the movie. Preview the selection of films and reserve your seat at nehlibrary.org/events or call 207-276-3333.
Northeast Harbor Library -Live Jazz Music
Sunday Sessions is a group of musicians dedicated to performing - and sharing through education - creative improvised music. Grounded in blues, jazz, groove, and original takes on popular music, Sunday Sessions performs shows and presents clinics across the state of Maine. Featuring Matthew Lawson (trumpet), Shane Ellis (saxophone), Dan Granholm (trombone), Greg Snakard (piano), Will Miller (bass), and Beau Lisy (drums). Registration required: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/16639883
Northeast Harbor Library -Driving Safety & Aging
How do aging-related changes in health impact driving safety? How does Maine address medical concerns in driver licensing? How can older adults remain safely mobile behind the wheel and otherwise? Get the answers to these questions and more in this free presentation by Dr. Tom Meuser from the Maine Mature Drivers Project. Designed to inform older adults, their family, and the professionals who serve them. Register: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/16677142
Northeast Harbor Library - Open Mic
Gather round at our monthly open mic; an eclectic mix of music, poetry, storytelling and performance. Coffee and light refreshments will be available by donation to benefit the library. Advance registration is appreciated but not required. (https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/15794883)
The Coffeehouse meets on the third Friday of each month, January through May. (Jan. 16; Feb. 20; Mar. 20; Apr. 17; May 15)
Northeast Harbor Library -Author Talk
Linda Buckmaster and Elizabeth Garber will be reading and talking about their work as “writing buddies” for over fifteen years. With the publication of Linda’s fourth book, Journey Waters. Poems, Prose, Places, she and Elizabeth will be talking about their parallel writing careers over the years—supporting each other, sharing research, initiating public literary events, DIY writers’ retreats, and their current work. Discussion with the audience is encouraged. Register: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/16634189
Community School-Children’s Craft Fair
The Children's Craft Fair will be hosted by The Community School for Place-Based Education located at 585 Sound Drive on Mount Desert Island. The event will take place on Saturday, May 2nd from 10am - 3pm and is open to all area crafters ages 4 - 13 years old.
The Community School for Place-Based Education is an independent Place-Based Forest Kindergarten, Elementary and Middle School, cultivating a sense of self, place and community, located on an 80 acre campus in the heart of Mount Desert Island on the coast of Maine.
Please direct any questions about the Craft Fair to Autumn Soares at Autumn@thecommunityschool.me.
Registration closes Saturday, April 4th.
ArtWaves MDI -Suncatcher Workshop
Suncatchers ~Playing with Stringers and Fused Glass In this glass fusing sun catcher workshop we will cover the basics of glass crafting and material science. We will be playing with fire where you will get a mini taste of flame working with stringer bending. Culminating in your very own piece of art that you can add copper wire and make it wall hangable. The firing process will be covered but it lasts overnight, students will come back to pick up their art at a later time. Each student will get 2 x 4 inches of kiln estate with some leftover space for little experiments, perhaps wearable. For more information:
https://www.artwavesmdi.org/event-6642229
Northeast Harbor Library -Reading
Join Barbara Kent Lawrence for a live reading and discussion of her new book "Both Sides of the Pond: My Family's War (1933-1946). In this intensively researched war story of the author’s family, we also hear the stories of other ordinary people who survived extraordinary circumstances. Register: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/15420353
ArtWaves MDI- Figure Drawing: Long-Pose Portrait Session
This open figure drawing session features a live clothed model in a series of 20-minute poses in the same position. You are welcome to reposition to get a different view.
There is no instruction just friendly fellow artists and tea. Easels, drawing horses, paper, charcoal, and basic supplies are available as needed.
Teens, sculptors, and painters welcome.
$20.
https://www.artwavesmdi.org/event-6651756
Northeast Harbor Library -Ecology Lecture
Maine State Horticulturist Gary Fish discusses the current invasive species in Maine, highlighting their impacts and how we can work together to slow their spread. Attend in-person or online: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/16188222
Acadia Community Theater-FROZEN
Join us for this beloved tale of adventure, friendship, and the true meaning of love, featuring all your favorite songs and characters. Shows will be two weekends in April, April 17, 18, 24, and 25 at 7:00 pm and April 19 and 26 at 2:00 pm. at the Criterion in Bar Harbor. Tickets and info at acadiatheater.net
Acadia Community Theater-FROZEN
Join us for this beloved tale of adventure, friendship, and the true meaning of love, featuring all your favorite songs and characters. Shows will be two weekends in April, April 17, 18, 24, and 25 at 7:00 pm and April 19 and 26 at 2:00 pm. at the Criterion in Bar Harbor. Tickets and info at acadiatheater.net
Northeast Harbor Library -Tool Swap
Tools cluttering up your garage or workshop? Give them a second life and bring them to the library to share with others. The Tool Swap is a drop-in event providing tools for free to everybody; if you want it, it’s yours! There is no requirement to bring a donation if you want to take something home. The library will accept advance donations of clean tools in good working condition during open hours from March 28th until 10:30 am on April 25th. This program is a collaboration between the Northeast Harbor Library and the Sustainability Committee of the Town of Mount Desert.
Acadia Community Theater-FROZEN
Join us for this beloved tale of adventure, friendship, and the true meaning of love, featuring all your favorite songs and characters. Shows will be two weekends in April, April 17, 18, 24, and 25 at 7:00 pm and April 19 and 26 at 2:00 pm. at the Criterion in Bar Harbor. Tickets and info at acadiatheater.net
Northeast Harbor Library -Movie Night
Kick back, relax, and enjoy a free movie screening selected and hosted by librarian and movie collection curator Kate Young. Gathering on the fourth Wednesday of each month (through May) this series will include a mix of nostalgic favorites and recent hits projected on our 15 ft screen. Free popcorn provided; outside snacks welcome. End time will vary depending on the movie. Preview the selection of films and reserve your seat at nehlibrary.org/events or call 207-276-3333.
Acadia Community Theater-FROZEN
Join us for this beloved tale of adventure, friendship, and the true meaning of love, featuring all your favorite songs and characters. Shows will be two weekends in April, April 17, 18, 24, and 25 at 7:00 pm and April 19 and 26 at 2:00 pm. at the Criterion in Bar Harbor. Tickets and info at acadiatheater.net