June is the kickoff to the one of the best times of year in Maine. Actually, all seasons are wonderful in the Pine Tree State, but at least for this one you don't have to be packing a hearty sweater "just in case."

To make the most of your June visit to Black Point Inn, I have compiled a (very abridged) list of local events that will bring out your inner adventurer:

June 5: First, get your month started with the First Friday Art Walk in Portland. Mingle with the locals as one of the city's main streets shuts down to be exclusively pedestrian. Local artists flood the sidewalks with their works to display and sell, galleries open their doors, and street performances are at least two to a block. Once you've walked yourself up an appetite, make your way to one of the dozens of local restaurants in the neighborhood. For a guide & map, check out this website: http://www.liveworkportland.org/first-friday-art-walk-new

Photo courtesy of Creative Portland

June 8-13: The Kennebunkport Festival is a weeklong extravaganza dedicated to food, wine, art, and of course, the beautiful town of Kennebunkport. Because the festival is so long in duration, you have many opportunities to participate in the festivities. Our own Chef William Benner is even participating: on June 10th, he will be taking part in The Art of Dining. During The Art of Dining, a private Kennebunkport resident opens their kitchen to a local chef who will prepare an intimate meal for guests, with a signature cocktail and a backdrop of carefully selected local artwork. To explore more about this amazing week, visit www.kennebunkportfestival.com

A lively evening during the 2014 Kennebunkport Festival. Photo courtesy of http://kennebunkportfestival.com/

June 11: Are looking for a way to work off all that delicious food you've consumed? Do you want to do good for others while doing good for yourself? If so, the annual Twilight 5K takes off at nearby Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) to benefit the Maine Cancer Foundation. The race's route can't be beat, as you run along the South Portland coastline and pass one of our many local lighthouses. For more information, visit: http://twilight5k.com/

How many races take you on such a beautiful route? Photo courtesy of twilight5k.com

June 12-14: The Old Port Festival is an event that locals look forward to all year, located right in downtown Portland. Radio stations bring in some of the best up-and-coming musical acts, as well as feature our own homegrown musical talent. Vendors take to the streets, and there will be lots of free activities that are fun for the whole family. While the city really shuts down on the 14th,  June 13th is the Walk the Working Waterfront event that lets you explore at your own pace. Word of advice: don't try to drive in the Old Port area that day, foot traffic rules the scene. Check out the website to learn more http://www.oldportfestival.net/

Exchange Street comes alive.  Photo courtesy of mainetoday.com

June 16: After a bit of a rainy start to our spring here in Maine, weall are ready to see some beautiful flora and some sunshine. This is why we are looking forward to the Peony Bloom & Ice Cream Social at the Maine Audobon Society. This event is some natural fun for the whole family. Come for some delicious local ice cream, and then stroll around the Audobon landscape. This space overlooks a tranquil cove and has sprawling open fields that will be overflowing with lush and vibrant peonies. Bring your camera. To learn more: http://maineaudubon.org/events/peony-bloom-ice-cream-social/

Photo courtesy of the Maine Audobon Society.

June 21: Ah! The summer solstice. There are a few options of events going on this day to help you herald in the "official" start of summer. First of all, local company SailMaine is having an open house. Located on directly on Portland's bustling waterfront, SailMaine will be offering demos for a variety of water sports, and you have the opportunity to try it all out for yourself.  http://www.sailmaine.org/8th-annual-open-house-june-21/

Then, the second annual Make Music Portland will be taking over the city. This event is part of a world wide festival of sound called Fête de la Musique that involves over 120 countries around the world. The downtown region will be abuzz with live music from our extremely talented local population. To learn more about Portland's participation, visit: http://makemusicportland.org/

Cool poster, huh? Courtesy of makemusicportland.org

June 25-27: The Greek Heritage Festival has been a Portland staple for over a decade. And it's been around that long for good reason. Whether you are just stopping by to pick up some amazing Greek cuisine on your way home, or sticking around to dance the night away, this festival is a Portland must-do. For a menu guide and event times, please visit: http://www.holytrinityportland.org/festival.asp

Baklava? Yes please! Photo courtesy of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Portland ME

June 28: Taste of the Nation. Once again setting up shop in the iconic and beautiful Fort Williams Park, this event will delight your inner foodie. Be sure to get your ticket ASAP, this event sells out fast. In the past, our own Chef Benner has been a part of this event, so we know from experience just how awesome Taste of the Nation can be. Find out what it is all about at their website ce.strength.org/portlandme

Be sure to bring your appetite. Photo courtesy of http://ce.strength.org/portlandme

Phew, I think you have a few event options to get you started on your summertime in Maine. If you take part in any of these, let us know.

By Lena C., Black Point Inn Social Media Coordinator