This year, we’re reimagining River Days—spreading the fun across four Fridays from June through September, plus one Saturday paddle. Why? Because the river deserves the spotlight. By focusing on engaging, river-centric events throughout the summer, we’re doubling down on the original purpose of the festival: to celebrate the Kennebec and highlight the exciting future of the Skowhegan River Park.
Instead of cramming everything into one weekend, we’re spreading out the experiences, prioritizing Friday energy downtown, and offering more chances to connect with the river all summer long.
Thank you to our generous leading River Days sponsors—Skowhegan Savings Bank, Franklin Savings Bank, Hight Family of Dealerships, and Brookfield Renewable—for making this celebration possible. Their support helps bring our community together and shine a spotlight on the Kennebec River, our downtown, and the exciting future of the Skowhegan River Park. We’re grateful for their commitment to Skowhegan’s momentum and summertime magic!
Schedule Of Events:
Paint Skowhegan
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Various Locations
Calling for local artists! We want YOU to help us Paint Skowhegan during Skowhegan River Days!
What will you be doing? Artist’s will chose a location based on the map below and paint (any 2D medium) the location within the timeframe listed above. River Fest attendees will travel between listed location and vote for the their favorites!
The People's Choice painting will be donated to the Main Street Skowhegan Dinner in the Park Fundraiser. All finished pieces will be displayed in the gallery with an opening celebration on Thursday, August 21st from 4-6 p.m.
Bites & Sites: The Downtown Skowhegan Food Tour Sponsored by Franklin Savings Bank
Tours at 2 PM & 4 PM - 65 Water Street, Skowhegan
Discover the flavors of Skowhegan on a guided walking tour featuring locally sourced bites and behind-the-scenes stories from our vibrant food scene. Perfect for foodies, visitors, and locals alike—come hungry and leave inspired. Stops will include Joe's Flat Iron Cafe, The Miller's Table at Main Grains, Crooked Face Creamery, The Maine Meal, The Bankery, and Unwined. Tickets are $75 and include free samples at all stops, and a branded tote bag! Register here
The Paddling Film Festival World Tour
4 PM - 9 PM | Riverfront Greenspace (151 Water Street,Skowhegan)
Experience the thrill, beauty, and grit of life on the water with a curated selection of paddling films from around the globe. This outdoor screening brings together adventure lovers for an evening of storytelling, local food, a vendor fair, and a riverside beer garden hosted behind Unwined-Skowhegan and sponsored by Key Appliance.
