We’ve got a culture overload this weekend with so many things going on between CIFF screenings locally, a couple of killer road trips to see music and to taste new brews, and finally, a reason to chow down on Maine’s most celebrated dish—lobster!

Camden International Film Festival

Friday, September 17 through Sunday, September 19—Midcoast

The best documentaries of the past year are screening at Camden International Film Festival from September 16-26 this year, but this is Weekend Spotlight, so we’ll just focus on the weekend screenings. Here is the schedule for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. And here are the individual films and Shorts. The festival is divvying up the selections between The Strand Theatre and Journey's End in Rockland as well as the Shotwell Drive-In in Rockport. FMI: Tickets

Live Edge Music Festival

Saturday, September 18—Jefferson

Hidden Valley Nature Center is opening up its thousand-acre preserve to a fun-filled day of live music featuring Maine bands, great local food, and craft beer from 12 to 6 p.m.  Check out the 30 miles of trails for a hike, a mountain bike ride, or a canoe beforehand. Then stick around for Katie Daggett & Ed DesJardin, Sirumem Belly Dance Troupe, 12/OC, Jamie Saft, New Zion Trio and
Primo Cubano. Pro tip: this is a dog-free event. To hear the first band on time, get there 30 minutes before to catch the parking shuttle. General admission is $20. FMI: Tickets

Killer Road Trip: Maine Brew Fest

Saturday, September 18—Sunday River

September seems to be the month for the resurgence of brewfests! Sunday River is hosting one from 1 to 5 p.m. with more than 100 breweries and cideries participating. Go on a scenic chondola ride from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or do a VIP tasting an hour earlier before everyone else gets in from 1 to 2 p.m. There will be live music with Skosh from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. and fireworks at 8 p.m. For tickets and other info visit: Maine Brew Fest

Maine Lobster Week

Sunday, September 19—Statewide

Maine Lobster Week starting Sunday, September 19 goes through to September 25—which happens to be National Lobster Day. Organized by the same people who put together Maine Restaurant Week, this is a way for lobster shacks, diners, or any restaurant that routinely serves lobster to be part of this promotional campaign and to serve a variety of lobster dishes at a lower price point or in a three-course prix-fixe menu. Not only does it encourage diners to try a dish they’ve never had, but it also helps boost the livelihoods of lobstermen throughout the state. FMI and to see what restaurants are participating visit: https://mainelobsterweek.com

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com