Maine Stories

As the moon rises over Carrabassett Valley on Saturday, June 27, the Bangor Symphony Orchestra (BSO) will strike its opening notes at the 7th annual Kingfield POPS outdoor music and arts festival.

Conductor Xiao-Lu Li will lead the 65-member orchestra through a program of classical, popular and patriotic music from a stage at the Kennedy Farm field with a scenic backdrop of forest and mountains. The evening will be capped with a fireworks display.

Before the orchestra takes the stage, a lineup of local and regional musicians will treat spectators to the sounds of bluegrass, folk, rock, jazz, classical and steel drum tunes from the moment the gates open at 4:30 p.m. Many spectators bring lawn chairs, blankets and a picnic, but food can also be purchased from one of the local vendors on site for al fresco dining.

The Festival of the Arts will take place in the village of Kingfield from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission to this event is free for all. Visitors can browse the work of more than 40 artists and artisans exhibiting photography, jewelry, stained glass, blown glass paintings, metal works, wood crafts, and spinning yarn.

Local musicians will be on hand playing live music throughout the day. The inaugural Road Jam 10K running race and 1K fun walk begins at 9:00 a.m.

Tickets for the Kingfield POPS concert are $20 in advance and $25 at the gate. Children 17 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. For more information or to buy tickets, visit kingfieldpops.com or call (207) 778-4215.