Join us for a summer evening of live music with The Soul Benders at the Franklin Street Parklet on Wednesday, July 31st! Presented in partnership with WERU Community Radio, the show kicks off at 7 PM. Bring a chair, grab some friends, and enjoy soulful tunes in the heart of downtown Ellsworth!
About Franklin Street Parklet
Stop by Franklin Street Parklet anytime to relax, chat, eat lunch, work, and more. The Parklet design is an evolving project with new programming each year. Learn more below, and share your input on what you want the Parklet to be.
Show Dates: July 10–30th
16 State Street | Free + open to all
Curated by Abbie Read
Opening Reception: Thursday, July 10 | 5–7 PM
Books and plants both tell stories — layered, living, and always evolving. This upcoming exhibition celebrates that connection through stunning handmade works by the Midcoast Maine Book Arts Group.
Expect paper infused with petals, bindings that breathe like leaves, and creative explorations of nature’s resilience. It's sure to be a beautiful show!
On Friday, 5/9/2025, Heart of Ellsworth unexpectedly lost a $30,000 federally-funded historic preservation grant, but we’re moving forward - with your help! Earning a federal designation will bring critical support for preserving Ellsworth’s historic buildings and keeping our downtown vibrant. Your donation will help us keep this important work on track.
Heart of Ellsworth is leading an initiative to nominate Downtown Ellsworth as a National Register of Historic Places Historic District. This project builds on a 2023 reconnaissance survey and aims to preserve and protect the historic and architectural character of the district while fostering economic and cultural growth.
The designated area includes approximately 47 properties across 6.5 acres on Main Street, State Street, Water Street, and portions of Franklin and Hancock Streets.
With your help, we can protect Ellsworth's historic character!
Courthouse Gallery Fine Art Presents "William Irvine: Soundings"
July 5th - August 4th
Irvine, who recently turned 94, produced a remarkable 30 oil paintings, as well as eight porcelain plates and vases he created with Blue Hill potter Mark Bell. There will be an Artist Reception on Wednesday, July 9th from 5-7pm. The show is free and open to the public.
Residents and visitors of all ages are invited to level up their summer at their local community hub between July 7 and August 21. This season of free public programming is one of the library’s most dynamic and collaborative to date—designed to spark curiosity, foster creativity, and deepen connections with the local environment.
George Nixon Black Jr.'s 183rd Birthday Party At Woodlawn
Friday, July 11th
Join Woodlawn for a family friendly birthday party for Nixon Black's 183rd birthday. Nixon loved dogs, especially Saint Bernards, so they are throwing him a dog themed birthday party.
This event is outside only and will be canceled in the case of bad weather. Please RSVP so that they have enough supplies.
FBC Monday Music - Outdoor Concert Series At Tidal Falls
July 21st - Aug. 4th
Monday Music is back! At 6:00pm on Monday, July 21st, The Sugarsnaps we will be kicking off Frenchman Bay Conservancy's concert series at Tidal Falls!
Bring your blankets and chairs, grab a bite to eat from one of the food trucks, and enjoy an evening of music with the beautiful reversing falls as a backdrop.
It's Christmas in July at your Grand. Get your raffle tickets for a chance to win a tree full of treasures from local businesses. All proceeds benefit Your Grand. (Parkas or beachwear optional.)
Call For Events: Art Of Ellsworth - Maine Craft Weekend
We're excited to be coordinating the 8th Annual Art of Ellsworth: Maine Craft Weekend, happening October 3–5, 2025! Want to be part of the celebration? Submit your event to be included in this vibrant weekend showcasing Ellsworth’s creative community. The deadline to submit is July 21st.
Check out the Farmers Market at its new location 25 Pine Street parking lot of Fogtown and Artsworth!
News From City Hall
Be in the know about road closures, parking information and more by following updates from City Hall on their website. Attend and/or watch City Council Meetings by following their YouTube channel as well!
Many of you have told us how much downtown Ellsworth means to you, how a vibrant downtown has enriched your life and increased your sense of pride and connection to this place.
