Invite 72 // Dec 11

We got a shout-out on this week's Maine Calling radio show (thanks Silvia!). You can check out the recording at the link above or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc, to hear from other outdoor enthusiasts about finding fun in winter.

This newsletter is entirely word of mouth. Opportunities like this are huge for getting these events in front of people like you. If you find yourself with an opportunity to share this resource with others, please consider it. Now, on to the good stuff!

✌️ MJ

Disclaimer Time: Nature is unpredictable and events change. Always double-check the organization's event page before heading out.

Skate with Santa & Friends

Thu, Dec 12 | Cape Elizabeth | Paid

Head over to the Cape Elizabeth ice rink for festive skating with holiday tunes, hot chocolate, decorations, and Santa + elves. Proceeds from the event support the ongoing development of this great community resource.

​Learn more​

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Tiger Hill Community Forest Harvest Tour

Sat, Dec 14 | Sebago | Free

Join Loon Echo Land Trust for a Tiger Hill Community Forest tour to learn how forestry can be applied as a conservation tool.

​Learn more​

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Full Moon Hike

Sun, Dec 15 | Jefferson | Paid

Explore the trails at Hidden Valley Nature Center by moonlight on this guided winter hike. Having spent several nights at HVNC, I can almost guarantee you'll be accompanied by the sound of owls and other nocturnal creatures.

​Learn more​

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December Forest Playgroup

Wed, Dec 18 | Falmouth | Free

A forest playgroup is an outdoor meetup for families with 2-5 year olds. This month's meetup takes place at River Point Conservation Area in Falmouth.

​Learn more​

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Welcome to Winter

Thu, Dec 19 | Auburn | Free

Winter Kids is hosting its annual winter kick-off, which features free ski, snowboard, and snowshoe rentals for kids and other necessities like sledding and a hot chocolate bar at Lost Valley Ski Area.

​Learn more​

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Winter Solstice Lantern Walk

Sat, Dec 21 | Harpswell | Free

What better way to celebrate the year's darkest days than with a cozy lantern-lit walk at Mitchell Field in Harpswell? Several other similar events are happening statewide. Google "Solstice Lantern Walk Maine" to find them.

​Learn more​

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Portland Bike Party: Soltice Giving Ride

Sat, Dec 21 | Portland | Free

Winter doesn't stop Portland Bike Party from hosting epic group rides, including this holiday-themed ride, which doubles as a winter gear drive for Maine Needs.

​Learn more​

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Seaside Santa Dash

Sat, Dec 21 | Kennebunk | Paid

Register today for this 5k beach run featuring runners in Santa and elf suites hitting the pavement.

​Learn more​

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Climb for a Cure

Thu, Dec 26 | Carrabassett Valley | Donation Based

A moonlit climb, snowshoe, or skin up the slopes at Sugarloaf to support cancer research and treatment in the state.

​Learn more​

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Better with friends. Some of life's best outdoor experiences are shared with others. Share this newsletter with a friend to inspire your next group adventure by forwarding this email or sharing a link to subscribe.

Previously Featured & Upcoming

​Gardens Aglow | Wed, Nov 27 - Tue, Dec 31 | Paid​

​News Years Eve at Maine Huts and Trails | Tue, Dec 31 - Wed, Jan 1 | Paid​

​Inclusive Ski Touring: Open to All Program | Sun, Jan 5 - Sun, Mar 16 | Paid​

​Beginner Cross Country Ski Trip at Medawisla Lodge | Mon, Jan 20 - Thu, Jan 23 | Paid​

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Trail Log: Share your Experience

Have you attended any of these recent activities? Use the quick check-in links(30 seconds or less) to log your attendance and share your experience.

📝 Opening Day at Thompson's Point Rink - Fri, Nov 29​

📝 Weekly Bird Walk at Fields Pond - Fri, Dec 6​

📝 Millinocket Marathon & Half - Sat, Dec 7​

📝 Portland Trails Holiday Dash 5K - Sun, Dec 8​

📝 Santa Sunday - Sun, Dec 8​

Your responses help us decide which events to feature again and motivate the newsletter's continued creation.

The Maine Outsider is your invitation to get outside. Our mission is to connect you with outdoor organizations offering impactful events and experiences around the state.

We monitor 300+ organizations but can't know everything. If you're hosting an event or have a tip about an upcoming experience, use our tip line to let us know.

Thanks for reading. Now, get out there!