Sebago Days returns with full weekend of family fun

A beloved summer tradition will return later this month as Sebago Days celebrates its 47th year with three days of family activities, live entertainment and community events while also helping commemorate the Town of Sebago's bicentennial.

The 47th Sebago Days weekend of fun will run
from Friday, July 17 to Sunday, July 19 at
Sebago Elementary School in Sebago and will 
feature a carnival midway, car show, road races,
food vendors, children's activities and fireworks.
COURTESY PHOTO

Scheduled for July 17 to July 19 at Sebago Elementary School, the annual festival is organized entirely by volunteers and has become one of the Lakes Region's largest community celebrations. This year's event will take on added significance as Sebago marks 200 years since the town's incorporation in 1826. Festival organizers have planned several special features to recognize the milestone, including an expanded fireworks display and presentations highlighting Sebago's rich history.

Residents and visitors can expect a weekend filled with carnival rides, live music, a parade, a classic car show, road races, children's activities and local food vendors, along with opportunities to reflect on the town's two centuries of history and community spirit.

The festivities begin on Friday afternoon July 17 when the midway opens with rides provided by Cushing Amusements. Organizers said the carnival offers attractions for both younger children and thrill-seekers, making it a popular destination throughout the weekend.

Friday evening's entertainment will feature Motor Booty Affair, a nationally touring tribute band that performs music from the disco era. The concert has become one of the weekend's marquee events and is expected to draw a large crowd.

Saturday's activities begin with one of Sebago Days' longest-running traditions – the Grand Parade. Starting at 10 a.m. July 18, the parade will feature floats, antique vehicles, local businesses, civic organizations, first responders and community groups traveling through town. Parade organizers will present awards in several categories, including best themed float, best antique vehicle, best commercial vehicle and most unique Jeep.

Children are also invited to participate in the Kiddie Parade, decorating bicycles, wagons, strollers and other nonmotorized rides before joining the festivities.

The annual Sebago Days Car Show is also scheduled for Saturday, July 18 and is expected to attract dozens of antique, classic and custom vehicles from across Maine. Awards will recognize entries in categories such as Best Paint, Best Rat Rod, Best Pickup, Best Muscle Car and Best of Show.

In recognition of Sebago's bicentennial, organizers are planning one of the largest fireworks displays in the festival's history. The enhanced show is intended to honor the community's 200-year legacy while providing a memorable finale for the weekend's celebration. Historical displays and presentations will also offer attendees a chance to learn more about the people, places and events that have shaped Sebago over the past two centuries.

Sunday's schedule shifts its focus to families and community activities. The day begins with the Sebago Days 5K, which welcomes runners and walkers of all ages. Young children will also have the opportunity to participate in a free toddler dash.

One of Sunday's most popular attractions is the Touch-a-Truck event, where children can climb aboard and explore construction equipment, emergency vehicles and other specialty trucks while learning about the jobs they perform.

Families can also enjoy a petting farm, bingo, children's activities, community exhibits and a variety of local vendors throughout the day.

Food vendors will serve a wide selection of fair favorites throughout the weekend, while local

organizations and businesses will have booths showcasing products, services and community programs.

What began nearly five decades ago has grown into one of the town's signature events, bringing together residents, seasonal visitors and families for a weekend celebrating community spirit. This year, the festival also serves as an opportunity to honor Sebago's past while celebrating its future. Despite its growth, organizers have maintained the festival's hometown atmosphere by relying on volunteers who spend months planning the annual event.

Last year, the Sebago Days Committee received the Spirit of America Award in recognition of its volunteer service and dedication to the community.

For many families, Sebago Days has become a summer tradition, offering an opportunity to reconnect with neighbors, support local organizations and enjoy a weekend of entertainment in the heart of town. This year's bicentennial celebration promises to make the annual festival even more memorable as the community celebrates 200 years of Sebago's history.

Admission to the festival grounds is free, although carnival rides and some activities require tickets or separate registration. A complete schedule of events and additional information is available at SebagoDays.com. <