Memorial Day weekend in Midcoast Maine is more than just a long weekend—it's a meaningful time to pause, honor those who served, and embrace the beginning of a new season along the coast.

From parades that wind through charming village streets to the long-awaited return of lobster shacks, ice cream stands, and farmers markets, this is one of the most cherished weekends of the year for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re setting up chairs along the parade route or grabbing your first lobster roll of the season, here are some of the ways to enjoy the weekend in true Midcoast style.

Seasonal Reopenings: Welcome Back, Coastal Favorites
Memorial Day often signals the return of our favorite flavors. If you’ve been counting down the days, now’s the time to enjoy:

• McLoons Lobster Shack (Spruce Head Island)
  Steamed lobster dinners, buttery rolls, and harbor views—this spot is a local summer rite of passage.

• Five Islands Lobster Co. (Georgetown)
  A feast for the senses: fresh seafood and some of the best waterfront views in Maine.

• Graffam Bros. Seafood Shack (Rockport)
  Grab fresh-cooked seafood right across from their market. It’s quick, delicious, and a local lunchtime favorite.

• Young’s Lobster Pound (Belfast)
  Known far and wide for its quality seafood and relaxed vibe—order to-go or ship lobsters! 

• Farmers Markets
  Browse farm-fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, handmade goods, and spring flowers in Camden, Rockland, or Belfast.

• Ice Cream & Snack Shacks
  We love grabbing a scoop at River Ducks right here in Camden!  Soft-serve, sundaes, and snacks are back! Pro tip: arrive early to beat the lines—especially on a sunny weekend. We love grabbing a scoop at River Ducks in Camden after work! 

 

 

 

 

 

Memorial Day Parades & Ceremonies

Midcoast Maine towns honor the meaning of Memorial Day with heartfelt ceremonies and community gatherings. Here's a look at the planned events—please double-check local listings as details may shift:

Boots on the Ground Ceremony
Saturday, May 25 at 11:00 AM | Knox Museum, Thomaston
A powerful and moving outdoor tribute hosted by the Knox Museum to honor fallen service members. Expect a symbolic display and community remembrance.

Camden

• 8:30 AM | Public Landing: Ceremony with prayer, speech, wreath laying, and TAPS

• 9:15 AM | Parade begins at Union Street

Rockport

• 10:45 AM | Parade starts near the Post Office and heads toward Graffam Bros.

Lincolnville

• 12:15 PM | Parade steps off from Lincolnville Central School

Rockland

• 10:45 AM | Bay Winds North Wind Ensemble Ceremony at Chapman Park

• 1:00 PM | American Legion Post 1 hosts a community BBQ at 335 Limerock Street

Belfast

• 10:30 AM | Lineup at Reny’s Plaza

• 11:00 AM | Parade heads down Main Street to the waterfront

Thomaston

• 4:00 PM | Watts Hall Memorial Day Concert
  Featuring Dvoƙák’s Requiem performed by the Down East Singers with orchestra and soloists

Start Your Summer, the Midcoast Way

As boats return to the harbors and the scent of salt air mixes with grilled seafood, Memorial Day weekend is a time to reflect and reconnect.

Whether you're watching a parade with a flag in hand, sampling the season’s first lobster roll, or attending a concert in a historic hall, this weekend is a celebration of remembrance, community, and coastal living.

From all of us at Dwelling in Maine—wishing you a safe, peaceful, and memorable Memorial Day weekend.