30 May 2024
PERRY — The countdown has begun for the much-anticipated third annual Rhubarb Festival, set to take place on June 1 from 12-5 p.m. at Kendall Farm in Perry. This eagerly anticipated spring event promises a day filled with vibrant art, delicious rhubarb creations, live music, and family-friendly activities.
One of the highlights of the Rhubarb Festival is the annual art competition, which engages local schools and students in creating artwork for posters and t-shirts. This year’s Festival theme is “Think Pink” and Hayden Sabbatus of Calais Middle High School clinched the coveted first place with her captivating depiction of rhubarb leaves emerging from pink boots. Hayden was awarded a $100 gift certificate to a locally owned business of her choice, which she graciously split between Rachel Ashley Jewelers and Crumb’s Cafe. Hayden will also receive a commemorative T-shirt featuring her winning design. Congratulations, Hayden!
Megan Ford of Shead High School secured the runner-up position with her crisp rhubarb X design and was awarded a $50 gift card to Sweeties Downeast in Eastport. Both winners, along with all participating student artists, were recognized for their contributions with certificates of participation and neon rhubarb festival wristbands for admission. A big thank you to all of the student artists who submitted their entries this year!
The Rhubarb Festival art submissions, curated under the guidance of art teachers Bobbi Tardif of CMHS and Sara Myrick of Shead, were on display at the Eastport Arts Center throughout the month of April, showcasing the creativity of Washington County’s talented youth.
Beyond the art showcase, the festival promises an enticingly diverse array of activities and experiences for attendees of all ages. Live music by local band Oatmeal Bear, rhubarb-themed demonstrations, craft and food vendors, rhubarb linoleum leaf printmaking, an obstacle course, and local brews from Horn Run Brewing will keep visitors entertained throughout the day. Attendees can also savor gourmet rhubarb creations from local cooks and participate in the highly anticipated rhubarb stalk eating competition.
Admission to the Rhubarb Festival is by donation, and attendees are reminded that smoking, vaping, and pets are not permitted on-site.
For the latest updates and schedule details, please visit www.kendallfarmcottages.com/rhubarbfestival.As part of the weekend festivities, attendees are encouraged to extend their stay in Downeast Maine and join the Down East Hospice Volunteers for the 33rd Anniversary Cobscook Bay Race on Sunday, June 2 in Pembroke. Down East Hospice Volunteers, the sole volunteer hospice in Washington County, has been serving our communities since 1981. This event, celebrating 43 years of compassionate volunteer Hospice Care, offers 10K, 5K, and Kids Fun Run options.
For registration and more information, visit www.cobscookbayroadraces.org or https://runsignup.com/cobscookraces.