Are you ready for the most vibrant summer kickoff in Downeast Maine? Then you should mark your calendar immediately for Saturday, June 6, 2026. This is because the spectacular 5th Annual Rhubarb Festival is returning to Perry, Maine. Furthermore, this highly anticipated event promises incredible food, live entertainment, and unforgettable memories. Whether you love rhubarb or feel skeptical, this celebration will change your mind completely.
Experience the Magic of Kendall Farm
The entire festival takes place at the historic Kendall Farm Cottages & Event Barn. Consequently, this gorgeous venue sits right in the heart of Washington County.
Essential Event Details
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Date: June 6, 2026
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Time: 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
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Location: Kendall Farm Cottages & Event Barn, 20 Kendall Lane, Perry, ME 04667
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Admission: Entry is by donation to support local community initiatives.
Discover the Fascinating History
Local visionary Georgie Kendall started this beloved festival back in 2022. Initially, she grew up attending local church suppers with her grandmother, Leona. Leona was a legendary baker who made incredible pies with traditional lard crusts. Surprisingly, the rhubarb pies were always the last desserts left on the table. Georgie loved the tart vegetable and could not understand why people avoided it. Therefore, she dreamed of creating an event to educate the community. Today, that beautiful dream brings hundreds of enthusiastic visitors to Perry every June.
Embrace the Wild 2026 Theme: “Rhubarb is Sexy”
This year features a bold and playful new theme. Specifically, the 2026 theme proudly proclaims that “Rhubarb is Sexy.” Festival organizers encourage everyone to dress up in vibrant shades of pink and green. As a result, you can show off your style and celebrate this beautiful vegetable. Get ready for incredible photo opportunities across the gorgeous farm property. In addition, your colorful outfits will make the festival grounds look absolutely spectacular.
Exciting Schedule of Events and Activities
The festival features an amazing lineup of activities from noon until evening. Fortunately, the event will run smoothly rain, sleet, or shine.
Ongoing Attractions (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
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Artisan & Farm Market: Browse local craft, food, and farm vendors inside and outside the historic barn.
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Obstacle Course: Take the kids to the farmhouse front lawn for a free, self-guided obstacle course.
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Face Painting: Visit Marissa Stokes on the front lawn for beautiful custom face painting designs.
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Art Projects: Join talented artist Sarah Duff on the front lawn for creative, hands-on craft activities.
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Rhubarb Garb Styling: Meet Amy Ray at the Bingville Shop deck for unique festival styling assistance.
Exclusive Historical Tours and Tastings
This year features an exciting collaboration with Roosevelt Campobello International Park. Meanwhile, experts will host special historical presentations inside the beautiful blue cottage down the hill.
1:30 PM and 3:30 PM: Eleanor’s Tea
First, enjoy a cup of Eleanor Roosevelt’s favorite tea blend. Afterward, listen to a fascinating short talk about her incredible life and enduring legacy.
2:30 PM and 4:30 PM: FDR Happy Hour
Similarly, you can sip a refreshing, specially crafted mocktini. Meanwhile, you will learn captivating facts about the history and impactful leadership of Franklin Delano Roosevelt.
Masterclasses and Live Demonstrations
Meanwhile, you can expand your culinary and gardening skills at the festival blacksmith shop. Expert presenters will share their valuable secrets all afternoon.
Gardening and Nutrition
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1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Learn professional rhubarb planting and care instructions from Ellen Johnson of Lamb Cove Farm.
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12:00 PM – 12:45 PM: Discover unique nutritional benefits during the “A Year of Rhubarb” seminar by Laurie Bowen. Laurie represents the esteemed University of Maine Cooperative Extension.
Baking and Culinary Arts
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1:00 PM – 1:45 PM: Watch Ronie Strout create wicked good, quick, and easy rhubarb desserts.
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2:00 PM – 2:45 PM: Attend a lighthearted, practical etiquette class with the delightful Lorraine Gilmore Peters.
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3:00 PM – 3:45 PM: Learn to bake a delicious ginger rhubarb crumble with master baker Richard Fulghum.
Crafts and Libations
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4:00 PM – 4:45 PM: Master the complex art of homemade rhubarb winemaking with expert winemaker Mike Look.
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5:00 PM – 5:45 PM: Finally, watch expert mixologist Josh Spencer mix clever, upscale rhubarb cocktails.
Live Music, Competitions, and Main Stage Entertainment
Simultaneously, the main stage at the garage keeps the energy high all day long. The fabulous EMCEE Joan K will guide you through every exciting moment.
Music Lineup
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12:00 PM – 1:45 PM: Enjoy lively Celtic tunes from the talented Rhubarb Ramblers, featuring Andy and Adam.
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2:00 PM – 3:45 PM: Listen to a captivating live musical performance by Patrick Cormier.
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4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Unwind to the wonderful, rhythmic background sounds of local band The Crows.
Major Highlights and Contests
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4:00 PM: Watch the intense, hilarious Rhubarb Stalk Eating Competition. Brave participants will compete for fantastic local prizes.
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4:20 PM: Next, listen closely as organizers announce the lucky winners of the festival raffle.
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4:30 PM: Afterward, cheer for your favorite pink and green outfits during the Rhubarb Garb Fashion Show.
Essential Tips for Festival Visitors
To maximize your fun, please prepare properly for an outdoor farm experience.
Quick Visitor Checklist
Bring Cash: Many vendors only accept cash for their unique, handmade products.
Pack Outdoor Gear: Bring sunscreen, bug repellent, walking shoes, and a comfortable lawn chair.
Bag Your Goods: You will definitely need a sturdy bag to carry home your delicious rhubarbuterie boards.
Leave Pets Behind: Finally, remember this is strictly a pet-free, smoke-free, and vape-free community event.
Contact Information and Connect with Us
Do you have questions about the upcoming festivities? Then you should contact the event coordinators directly.
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Host Venue: Kendall Farm Cottages & Event Barn
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Physical Address: 20 Kendall Lane, Perry, ME 04667
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Inquiries: Please reach out via the official website contact portal to message Georgie Kendall.
In conclusion, join us on June 6, 2026, for an absolute masterpiece of Downeast culture, food, and community spirit!
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