Every late summer, the North Woods comes alive with incredible food and community spirit. The scent of slow-roasted pork fills the crisp mountain air along Route 15, drawing locals and visitors to the annual Blue Ridge Riders Pig Roast.
On Saturday, September 5, 2026, the Blue Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club hosts its 17th Annual Pig Roast. This beloved community gathering takes place in the heart of Rockwood, Maine.
If you love authentic outdoor cookouts, you must mark this date on your calendar. It is a fantastic tradition where locals, visitors, and outdoor enthusiasts connect.
Best of all, every single dollar raised goes directly toward local trail conservation. Here is your guide to this exciting Labor Day weekend event in Somerset County.
The Spirit Behind the Annual Pig Roast
The Blue Ridge Riders Pig Roast is much more than a delicious dinner. Indeed, it serves as the club’s primary annual fundraising event.
Dedicated volunteers work tirelessly throughout the year to maintain an extensive trail network. Their trail network spans more than 35 miles of scenic terrain.
These trails connect the Moosehead Lake region to Maine’s Interconnected Trail System, including ITS 66 and ITS 88. Because of this dedication, winter riders enjoy world-class groomed trails each season.
Ticket sales and raffle donations provide essential funding for trail equipment and bridges. The proceeds also cover heavy fuel costs and safety signs across the woods.
Consequently, attending this cookout helps preserve these gorgeous public trail corridors for everyone.
Event Schedule and Location Details
The entire community will gather at Moosehead Sled Repair & Rental on Saturday, September 5, 2026. You can easily find the venue at 4008 Rockwood Road right in Rockwood.
Here is the official schedule for the day:
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12:00 PM: Raffle ticket sales and prize viewing areas open.
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5:00 PM: Volunteers serve the hot, slow-roasted pig roast dinner.
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6:00 PM: Official drawings begin for high-value raffles and the 50/50 jackpot.
Plan to arrive early in the afternoon. That way, you can socialize, view the incredible prizes, and purchase your tickets.
What Is on the Menu?
Prepare your appetite for a feast of tender, pit-roasted pork. The meat cooks slowly over open heat for hours until it is juicy and perfectly seasoned.
Additionally, the dinner includes a rich spread of classic homestyle side dishes. You can expect hearty baked beans, fresh coleslaw, warm dinner rolls, and tasty pasta salads.
Furthermore, local bakers frequently supply an assortment of homemade desserts to complete your meal. It is pure comfort food made with genuine Maine hospitality.
High-Stakes North Woods Raffles
Raffle tickets are always a major draw at this event. Generous merchants and regional outfitters donate items specifically suited for rugged outdoor living.
Past and anticipated prizes frequently include:
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Professional gas-powered chainsaws and firewood processing tools.
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Portable gas generators and heavy-duty battery power banks.
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High-end outdoor camping, fishing, and hunting gear.
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Themed lottery scratch ticket baskets with big payout potentials.
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Gift certificates to popular local dining spots and outfitters.
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A 50/50 cash drawing where one lucky winner takes home a large prize.
Because tickets sell rapidly, make sure to browse the prize tables when doors open at noon.
Why Rockwood Trails Matter
Rockwood sits directly across from the iconic Mount Kineo cliff face. In the winter, the town transforms into a thriving snowmobile hub.
The Blue Ridge Riders maintain the critical link between Greenville, Jackman, and Pittston Farm. Their trail groomers run all night through sub-zero temperatures to flatten moguls and clear downed trees.
Moreover, the club cooperates closely with private landowners and the Maine Snowmobile Association. This relationship ensures uninterrupted public trail access through private timberlands.
Without this volunteer group, navigating the surrounding backcountry would be impossible for many outdoor travelers.
Plan Your Labor Day Weekend Adventure
Labor Day weekend is one of the most picturesque times to explore the Moosehead Lake region. The weather stays comfortably warm during the day, while evenings turn pleasantly cool.
Between event activities, you can enjoy several scenic excursions around Rockwood:
1. Hike Mount Kineo State Park
Take a short passenger boat shuttle from the Rockwood public landing across to Mount Kineo. Hike the Indian Trail to reach the historic fire tower on the summit. The trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of Moosehead Lake.
2. Rent Watercraft on Moosehead Lake
Rent a pontoon boat or kayak to tour the tranquil coves of Moosehead Lake. You can easily book water rentals right at
Moosehead Rental & Service Guide: Your Local Resource
3. Spot Native Maine Wildlife
Drive along Route 15 during early morning or dusk to catch sight of wild moose feeding in roadside bogs. Bring your camera along for memorable wildlife photography.
Local Lodging Near the Event
Book your accommodations well in advance, because Labor Day weekend fills up very quickly throughout the region.
Consider staying at one of these top-rated local properties:
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Moose River Lookout: A luxury, waterfront vacation rental located directly on the Moose River with a private dock and mountain views.
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Misty Morning Cottages: Cozy, lakeside cottages offering peaceful waterfront views facing Mount Kineo.
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The Birches Resort: A classic North Woods wilderness lodge featuring private log cabins, wilderness tours, and dining.
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Rockwood Cottages: Waterfront cabins featuring private boat docks and direct access to Moosehead Lake.
Important Contact Information
Stay connected with event coordinators and local activity providers using the verified directory below:
Event Hosts & Trail Operations
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Host Organization: Blue Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club
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Mailing Address: P.O. Box 345, Rockwood, ME 04478
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Club Inquiries Phone: (207) 205-0413 or (207) 695-2020
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Email: [email protected]
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Official Website: Blue Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club
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Social Updates: Blue Ridge Riders on Facebook
Event Venue & Equipment Rentals
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Venue Location: Moosehead Sled Repair & Rental
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Physical Address: 4008 Rockwood Road, Rockwood, ME 04478
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Rental Shop Phone: (207) 534-2261
Regional Tourism & Trail Associations
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Regional Visitor Support: Destination Moosehead Lake
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Visitor Center Phone: (207) 695-2702
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State Trail Network: Maine Snowmobile Association
Join the Celebration This September
The Blue Ridge Riders 17th Annual Pig Roast represents the authentic spirit of Maine’s North Woods. You will enjoy mouth-watering food, win great gear, and meet wonderful people.
Most importantly, you will help protect miles of vital winter trails. Gather your family and friends for a fantastic Saturday in Rockwood. We look forward to seeing you there!
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