FORT FAIRFIELD, Maine — The Maine Potato Blossom Festival, a cornerstone of Aroostook County’s summer traditions, is set to kick off its 2025 celebration with exciting new additions thanks to a dynamic collaboration with Spud Speedway. The Festival celebrates its 78th year honoring the region’s long-storied agricultural heritage, and is hosted in Fort Fairfield from July 12-20. It promises an unforgettable week filled with live music, delicious food, thrilling races and family-friendly events.
Under the new leadership of Festival organizer Jane Towle, the Maine Potato Blossom Festival is focused on growth and innovation. Towle, a seasoned event planner, has been working with Spud Speedway’s owners Jim Gamage and Troy Haney to introduce a variety of new events to Fort Fairfield’s week-long celebration. This collaboration is bringing fresh ideas and energy to the Festival, with exciting new experiences that are sure to enhance the event’s already vibrant atmosphere.
“We’re thrilled to add new activities in conjunction with Spud Speedway this year,” said Towle. “Their enthusiasm and creativity have been contagious, and together we’re developing a range of new events that will appeal to both locals and visitors alike. We’re dedicated to celebrating our long-standing heritage in Fort Fairfield, and also creating lasting memories for our community with new events. I’m also very grateful to be working with a fantastic Festival Committee of seasoned volunteers as well as many new faces. They are all hard at work initiating and organizing behind the scenes, while remaining true to our theme this year to “Make the Festival Blossom!”
Exciting new events and highlights include:
Central Aroostook Chamber BBQ Cookoff & Spud 100 Race. The Festival will kick off at Spud Speedway on July 12 with the popular Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce BBQ Cookoff, where local chefs and grill masters will compete for top honors. The event will also feature the thrilling Spud 100 race, part of the R&R Street Stock Tour, bringing high-speed action to the track. This exciting start will set the tone for the entire week of Festival activities in Fort Fairfield.
Drive-In Movie Nights with a Tribute to Veterans. On Wednesday and Thursday nights, the Festival will present a drive-in movie experience in Fort Fairfield, sponsored by the Fort Fairfield VFW, Spud Speedway and Machias Savings Bank. Everyone is invited to enjoy movies under the stars, with a special focus on honoring veterans. Each night will feature a short video tribute, paying homage to those who have served while making this a memorable and meaningful event for all.
Agricultural tours featuring Molly the Trolley. Tourists and locals alike will enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful countryside on Molly the Trolley narrated by a knowledgeable tour guide, visiting special sites focusing on our rich agricultural history.
1st Annual Closest to the Pin Challenge. Bring your best golf skills, both men’s and women’s divisions.
Best Potato Recipe Competition. Who can take home the prize for the best recipe, featuring world famous Maine Potatoes!
Festival Week events. In addition to these new events, the Maine Potato Blossom Festival will continue its tradition of featuring live music, food trucks, competitions, a spectacular parade, fireworks and much more in beautiful downtown Fort Fairfield. The week-long celebration will offer something for Festival attendees of all ages.
A celebration of agriculture and community:
Both the Maine Potato Blossom Festival and Spud Speedway share deep roots in Aroostook County’s potato industry, and this collaboration is a testament to the region’s agricultural heritage and strong community spirit. By combining the Festival’s long-standing traditions with Spud Speedway’s innovative approach to the kickoff event, the team is set to create a Festival experience that is both nostalgic and exciting.
“We’re excited to be part of the Maine Potato Blossom Festival,” said Troy Haney. “This Festival means so much to the people of Aroostook County, and we’re proud to be working together to bring something new to the table that will make this year’s celebration even more special.”
Mark your calendars for July 12th through July 20th and stay tuned for more exciting details as the Festival approaches. The Maine Potato Blossom Festival promises to be a week to remember, with a perfect blend of old traditions while making room for new adventures.
For more information, including event schedules, ticket details and vendor opportunities, please follow us on social media @mainepotatoblossomfestival.
