
Summer isn't over yet! We still have a few weeks of warm, sunny weather to enjoy outdoor activities in the Kennebec Valley. Whether you're looking for a low-key community event or an adrenaline-packed adventure, here are some of the top end-of-summer activities our real estate agents recommend.
Augusta is known for its craft beer, and the Kennebec River Brewfest is the perfect opportunity to enjoy it. Scheduled for August 8, 2026, the event will feature samples of more than 100 unique beers, along with some other alcoholic beverages. There will also be food trucks on-site serving burgers, burritos, and so much more.
Tickets for the Kennebec River Brewfest start at just $35 per person and include a souvenir tasting glass and unlimited tastings. You're sure to discover a new favorite brew.
If you enjoy riding or even just watching motorcycles, then you have to stop by Triumph Demo Days at Paul Blouin Performance. Scheduled for August 7th - 8th, this event gives you the opportunity to ride some of Triumph's most versatile bikes, including on-road and off-road models. You must hold a valid motorcycle license to ride, and full road gear is required for safety.
The first 20 visitors to this event receive exclusive Triumph swag. If you don't have a license or don't wish to ride, there will still be opportunities to network with other enthusiasts and learn more about the brand.
If you're itching to squeeze in more time on the water, rent a kayak from Webb & Sons Rentals. Their shop is located less than a half mile from Maranacook Lake, so you can make the quick drive over, then spend the afternoon paddling away. They offer 4-hour rentals beginning at both 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
In addition to kayaks, Webb & Sons also rents:
Just make sure you set aside a little time to look at Readfield homes for sale while you're in the area.
Take a day and drive up to the Skowhegan State Fair, which happens to be the nation's oldest consecutively run agricultural fair! Scheduled for August 13 - 22, the fair offers something for everyone, including:
Of course, one of the biggest attractions is the fair food. You'll find vendors selling fried dough, corndogs, snow cones, and other favorites. Old Mill Pub usually has a stand, as do Cappza's Pizza and The Apple Farm.
The Winthrop Arts Festival is in its 38th year! This year, the event is scheduled for Saturday, August 15 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Attendees can walk the downtown Winthrop sidewalks and enjoy countless art exhibits, from paintings to abstract sculptures.
The Winthrop Arts Festival is a great place to purchase photography, drawings, or other artistic creations for your new home. There are often vendors selling fabric crafts and notecards, so you might want to do a little early holiday shopping.
When is the best time to visit these events before summer ends?
Most of these events are packed into the first three weeks of August, so plan ahead if you want to catch several. The Kennebec River Brewfest and Triumph Demo Days both take place August 7-8, the Winthrop Arts Festival follows on August 15, and the Skowhegan State Fair runs August 13-22, giving you the most flexibility to fit it into your schedule.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for the Kennebec River Brewfest?
While walk-up tickets may be available, popular tastings events like this one often sell out, especially for early access or VIP options. Tickets start at $35 and include a souvenir glass plus unlimited tastings, so it's worth checking the official Brewfest website to purchase ahead of time and guarantee your spot.
Can I go kayaking on Maranacook Lake even if I don't own my own equipment?
Absolutely. Webb & Sons Rentals is located less than half a mile from the lake and offers 4-hour rental blocks starting at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. In addition to kayaks, they also rent canoes, paddleboards, and paddleboats, making it easy to spend a full day on the water no matter what you're in the mood to paddle.
Summer is definitely the season to venture outside and engage with the local community. We hope you get a chance to enjoy some of these fun events and activities in the coming weeks. Don't hesitate to contact us if you're still looking for Augusta homes for sale. Our agents are happy to help.