2025 Historic Rangeley Programs & Events
Outdoor Heritage Museum OPENS for the 2025 Season
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 - 10AM-4PM
Rangeley’s rich outdoor history, traditions, and personalities come alive in this special museum located in the charming village of Oquossoc. The Museum, named "Best Sporting Museum in New England" by Yankee Magazine, is a “can’t be missed destination for visitors of Western Maine.” Come view our new exhibit for 2025; Wish You Were Here; Historic Hotels and Sporting Camps of the Rangeley Region.
The Museum's Store will also be open! Shop the unique collection of books, local & Maine made gifts & cards, and our new Historic Rangeley branded items, including apparel & hats.
Tour the Outdoor Heritage Museum's Exhibits & Collections: $8 per Adult (FREE for Members, Active Duty Military, and Kids 12 and under)
FREE Admission Weekend FOR ALL RANGELEY REGION LOCALS
Saturday May 24 - Sunday May 25, 2025 - 10AM - 4PM
at the Outdoor Heritage Museum
Come view our NEW EXHIBIT for 2025; Wish You Were Here; Historic Hotels and Sporting Camps of the Rangeley Region.
The Museum's Store will also be open! Shop the unique collection of books, local & Maine made gifts & cards, and our new Historic Rangeley branded items, including apparel & hats.
Tour the Outdoor Heritage Museum's Exhibits & Collections: $8 per Adult--FREE for RANGELEY REGION LOCALS, Members, Active Duty Military, and Kids 12 and under.
Just bring proof of residency for free admission if you’re a resident of Rangeley, Rangeley Plantation, Sandy River Plantation, Dallas Plantation, Oquossoc, or Wilson’s Mills!
An Evening With Maine Preservation
Tuesday June 3, 2025 — 5:30PM
at the Outdoor Heritage Museum
Meet the staff of Maine Preservation and learn about their programming and services for individuals, organizations, businesses, and communities. They will provide an overview of how to identify and support significant buildings and share technical and funding resources towards those efforts. The presentation will include a variety of case studies that illustrate the benefits of successful preservation projects across the state. A Q&A session will follow. For more information on Maine Preservation, visit mainepreservation.org.
Doors open at 5pm - Museum galleries will be open for touring
Free admission - Space is limited, please call 207-864-3091 or email info@historicrangeley.org to reserve your seat
LUPINE FESTIVAL
Saturday, June 14, 2025 – 10:00AM - 4:00PM
at the Outdoor Heritage Museum
Shop local and Maine arts, crafts, and antiques vendors on the grounds of the Outdoor Heritage Museum! The Museum and its Store will also be open!
Admission to the Festival is FREE.
Tour the Outdoor Heritage Museum's Exhibits & Collections: $8 per Adult (FREE for Members, Active Duty Military, and Kids 12 and under)
Are you a vendor interested in participating? Download our application here.
WALKING TOURS
JULY and AUGUST
Downtown Rangeley, Saturdays at 11AM, Meet at Rangeley History Museum
Oquossoc Village, Wednesdays at 11AM, Meet at Outdoor Heritage Museum
Explore the history of Rangeley and Oquossoc on foot with a knowledgeable tour guide. These one-hour tours offer a unique perspective of the region's past, discovering the sites of the region's earliest buildings and businesses in downtown Rangeley and Oquossoc Village. See images from the Historic Rangeley collections and transport yourself back in time to the region's gilded age, all while getting a bit of exercise and exploring these charming village neighborhoods. Each tour is approximately one mile round trip. Tours are operated weather-permitting.
$5 for non-members / FREE for members
Free for children 18 and under
Tours are limited to 10 individuals so please arrive early to reserve your space
Well-behaved dogs welcome!
JULY 3rd in the Park
Thursday, July 3, 2025 – 10:00AM-4:00PM
Rangeley Town Park
The park will be alive with music, events, and all kinds of family fun. Stop by our booth and check out our special museum shop merchandise - all sales proceeds support Historic Rangeley, which operates the Outdoor Heritage Museum and the Rangeley History Museum.
Annual Meeting at the Rangeley Inn
Tuesday, July 8, 2025 - 6PM
at the Rangeley Inn
Join us for the Annual Meeting of the Rangeley Lakes Region Historical Society (also known as Historic Rangeley!). This year, the meeting will take place at the historic and beautiful Rangeley Inn & Tavern. The Society's annual business meeting will be followed by some updates on Historic Rangeley programs and events, as well as a short presentation on the fascinating history of the Rangeley Inn featuring images from the Historic Rangeley collection.
Doors open at 5:30PM, Program starts at 6PM. Free Admission. Enjoy crudites and a cash bar.
Open to the public - please register in advance by calling 207-864-3091 or emailing info@historicrangeley.org.
WORKSHOP: Make Your Own Fishing Creel/Gathering Basket
Monday, July 14, 2025 9AM TO 5PM
at the Outdoor Heritage Museum
In this course, participants will weave their very own fishing creel/gathering basket. The instructor will walk the participants through every step of the process, ensuring everyone leaves the workshop with a finished basket!
This class is for all skill levels, from seasoned weavers to novice basket makers, our instructor will guide you through the weaving process, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all. You will gain a skill for life.
The fishing creel baskets are approximately 13"W x 10"H x 8"D, each with a wooden lid. Each basket will be made out of premium reed, a wooden lid, hinges, and a cotton strap.
8 hour class.
$145 per person/$130 per person for Members. Fee includes materials for making the pack basket.
Bring your own lunch or order one from nearby Oquossoc Grocery
SPACE IS LIMITED TO 20; RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY
To register: email mlandry@historicrangeley.org to receive a credit card payment link, or call 207-864-3091.
OQUOSSOC DAY
Saturday, August 16, 2025 — 10:00AM - 4:00PM
at the Outdoor Heritage Museum
A fun-filled day on the grounds of the museum during the popular village-wide “Oquossoc Day.” Shop 40 vendors offering art, antiques and crafts. The Outdoor Heritage Museum and its Store will be open as well!
Admission to the Festival is FREE.
Tour the Outdoor Heritage Museum's Exhibits & Collections: $8 per Adult (FREE for Members, Active Duty Military, and Kids 12 and under)
Are you a vendor interested in participating? Download our application here.
Evening at the Museum: The Life & Works of Edwin Roland Starbird presented by William B. Krohn
Friday, August 22, 2025 - 6:30PM
at the Outdoor Heritage Museum
Edwin R. Starbird (1853-1921): Photographer of Maine's Woods, Wildlife, and People
William B. Krohn
In this fascinating presentation, historian William B. Krohn will describe the life and works of Edwin Roland Starbird, a talented portrait and landscape photographer who worked in the late 1800s through early 1900s. Operating out of Farmington for much of his career, Starbird visited the waters and woods of western Maine multiple times. In addition to a biographical sketch of Starbird, this presentation will explore the images captured by Starbird, emphasizing his work in the greater Rangeley Region.
Doors open at 6PM. Enjoy a cash bar and free tours of the museum before the presentation.
$10 non-members / FREE for members
Space is limited - please register in advance by calling 207-864-3091 or emailing info@historicrangeley.org.
FALL FESTIVAL
Saturday, September 20, 2025 — 10:00AM - 4:00PM
at the Outdoor Heritage Museum
In celebration of the coming of cooler days, shop local and Maine arts, crafts, and antiques vendors on the grounds of the Outdoor Heritage Museum! The Museum and its Store will be open as well!
Admission to the Festival is FREE.
Tour the Outdoor Heritage Museum's Exhibits & Collections: $8 per Adult (FREE for Members, Active Duty Military, and Kids 12 and under)
Are you a vendor interested in participating? Download our application here.
PAST EVENTS…
Mountain Holly Days
Saturday, December 7, 2024 - 10AM - 3PM
Join us in celebrating “Mountain Holly Days”, a timeless Rangeley tradition. Visit us at the Outdoor Heritage Museum in Oquossoc and tour the museum at NO COST, then check out the unique items in the gift shop—enjoy 10% off all items!
All purchases support Historic Rangeley, a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
Classic Holiday Film Night at RFA Lakeside Theater
Saturday, December 7, 2024 - DOORS OPEN at 6PM, FILM STARTS at 7PM
We're thrilled to be hosting and sponsoring a holiday film night on December 7th at the Rangeley Friends of the Arts Lakeside Theater. Doors open at 6pm for a pop up holiday market where guests can purchase unique holiday gifts from Historic Rangeley's museum store. The film starts at 7PM - don't miss seeing this classic on the big screen!
Free Admission ($5 Suggested donation per person)
Rangeley Lakeside Theater, 2493 Main St., Rangeley, ME
Doors open at 6PM for Historic Rangeley pop-up market
Film starts at 7PM
Concessions will be available for purchase too!
All purchases support Historic Rangeley, a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
Holiday Pop Up
Saturday, December 14, 2024 - 10AM - 3PM
The Outdoor Heritage Museum’s store will be open for your last minute Holiday shopping—all items are 10% off!
And, at no cost, tour through the museum’s fascinating collections & exhibits documenting our region’s rich history.
All purchases support Historic Rangeley, a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
Small Business Saturday
Saturday, November 30, 2024 - 10AM - 3PM
Come visit the Outdoor Heritage Museum in Oquossoc to help celebrate Small Business Saturday.
The store will be open & stocked with unique gift items—especially for anyone on your list who loves Rangeley! And, at no cost, tour through the museum’s fascinating collections & exhibits documenting our region’s rich history.
All purchases support Historic Rangeley, a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
Cemetery Tour at Evergreen Cemetery
Monday, November 4, 2024 - 4PM-5PM
Visit the gravesites of some notable persons of our past, hear their stories & learn about their contribution to Rangeley’s rich history.
FREE event
Please register by sending an email to: info@historicrangeley.org
Presented by: the freshmen Humanities I students
in collaboration with: Historic Rangeley
FALL FESTIVAL
September 14, 2024 10AM-4PM
Join us and shop local and Maine arts, crafts, and antiques vendors on the grounds of the Outdoor Heritage Museum! The Museum will be open for tours and be sure to visit the Beer Garden! Vintage Dogs Maine will be here with their specialty hot dog food truck too!
Admission to the Festival is FREE; $8 adult admission to see the Museum (FREE for Members and Kids 12 and under).
EVENING AT THE MUSEUM: KENNEDY SMITH;LAWLESS POACHER, OR LAWFUL PIONEER? with WILLIAM B. KROHN
Friday , August 23, 2024 – Doors open at 6:30PM, presentation starts at 7PM
Historian, author, and retired wildlife scientist Dr. William B. Krohn presents his research on Kennedy Smith: guide, pioneer, and founder of three of Maine’s earliest sporting camps (Tim Pond, Big Island Camps [now Megantic Fish & Game Club], and Round Mountain Pond Camps. Don’t miss this fascinating exploration of a 19th century western Maine character!
Doors open at 6:30PM for touring museum galleries. Cash bar.
FREE admission for RLRHS Members. $10 Admission for general public.
Space is limited to 30 - please register in advance to ensure your seat: email mlandry@outdoorheritagemuseum.org or call 207-864-3091.
OQUOSSOC DAY
Saturday, August 17, 2024 – 10:00AM - 4:00PM
Outdoor Heritage Museum, 8 Rumford Rd., Oquossoc, ME
A fun-filled day on the grounds of the museum during the popular village-wide “Oquossoc Day.” Shop 40 vendors offering art, antiques and crafts. The Outdoor Heritage Museum will be open for tours and don’t forget to visit the gift shop as well. Vintage Dogs Maine will be here with their specialty hot dog food truck too!
Admission to the Festival is FREE; $8 adult admission to see the Museum (FREE for Members and Kids 12 and under).
EVENING AT THE MUSEUM; INDIGENOUS SENSE OF PLACE WITH JAMES ERIC FRANCIS, SR
Friday, August 2nd, 2024 – Doors open at 6:30PM, presentation starts at 7PM
Outdoor Heritage Museum, 8 Rumford Road, Oquossoc, ME
Our popular Evening at the Museum series is back and we’re thrilled to host James Eric Francis, Sr. as our first speaker this season. James is a multi-media artist, a historian, and the Director of Cultural and Historic Preservation for the Penobscot Nation. He will be speaking about his research on Maine’s indigenous people and their relationships with the landscape, as well as his work in creating an indigenous places Rangeley Region map for the Rangeley Lakes Region Historical Society and Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust.
Doors open at 6:30PM for touring museum galleries. Complimentary glass of wine or beer!
FREE admission for RLRHS Members and Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust members. $10 Admission for general public.
Space is limited to 30 - please register in advance to ensure your seat: email mlandry@outdoorheritagemuseum.org or call 207-864-3091.
HISTORIC WALKING TOUR OF DOWNTOWN RANGELEY
Saturdays in July and August at 11AM
Explore the historic landscape of downtown Rangeley with a knowledgeable guide and learn the fascinating story of Rangeley’s charming downtown during the19th and 20th centuries. See historic images of Rangeley dating back 150 years as you take a pleasurable jaunt through town!
Weather-permitting. 45 minutes. $5 per person suggested donation, to benefit the Rangeley Lakes Region Historical Society.
Tour departs from the Rangeley History Museum, 2472 Main St., Rangeley, ME 04970
More information to come!
HISTORIC WALKING TOUR OF OQUOSSOC VILLAGE
Tuesdays in July and August at 11AM
Walk charming Oquossoc Village with a knowledgeable guide as you learn about the history of this remote but busy little village throughout the last two centuries. See historic photographs of the buildings that are still with us in 21st century, as well as those that have been lost to history. Get a little exercise as you immerse yourself in Oquossoc’s built landscape of the past.
Weather-permitting. 45 minutes. $5 per person suggested donation, to benefit the Rangeley Lakes Region Historical Society
Tour departs from the Outdoor Heritage Museum, 8 Rumford Rd., Oquossoc, ME 04964
More information to come!
WORKSHOP: MAKE YOUR OWN GUIDE PACK BASKET
Monday, July 15, 2024 9AM TO 5PM
In this course, participants will weave their very own 17” tall pack basket. The instructor will walk the participants through every step of the process, ensuring everyone leaves the workshop with a finished basket! A variety of colors of straps and reeds will be available so you can personalize your basket. As you weave, learn about the history of the pack basket - an important utilitarian item based on indigenous design and used in the Maine woods for hundreds of years. You can use your finished pack basket during your outdoor adventures, for stowing farmer’s market and craft fair finds, and more!
8 hour class. $135 per person/$120 per person for Members. Fee includes materials for making the pack basket.
Bring your own lunch or order one from nearby Oquossoc Grocery
SPACE IS LIMITED TO 20; RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY
To register: email mlandry@outdoorheritagemuseum.org to receive a credit card payment link, or call 207-864-3091.
ANNUAL MEETING OF THE RANGELEY LAKES REGION HISTORICAL SOCIETY (HISTORIC RANGELEY)
Tuesday, July 9, 2024 – 6:00PM (Doors Open at 5PM)
Bald Mountain Camps, 125 Bald Mountain Road, Oquossoc, ME
Join us for the Historical Society’s Annual meeting! After a short business meeting, Rangeley historian Gary Priest will give a presentation on his research of the history and built landscape of Oquossoc village. Priest will highlight the fascinating locations featured on the Historical Society’s new guided Historic Walking Tour which he developed from his years of researching Rangeley Region history. Priest’s talk will focus on Oquossoc in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, telling the story of a busy lumber and tourism hub complete with hotels, restaurants, shops, a train station and steamboat landings!
Cash Bar; Complimentary light hors d’oeuvres
FREE ADMISSION - OPEN TO THE PUBLIC BY RESERVATION - SPACE IS LIMITED!
CALL 207-864-3091 OR EMAIL MLANDRY@OUTDOORHERITAGEMUSEUM.ORG TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE
MEMBERS: Information on voting will be emailed to you and available at outdoorheritagemuseum.org approximately four weeks in advance. More information on voting, ballots, and background materials can be requested by emailing mlandry@outdoorheritagemuseum.org or calling 207-864-3091. To vote at the meeting, members must be in good standing. Dues can be paid online here: https://www.outdoorheritagemuseum.org/membership-1
JULY 3RD IN THE PARK
Wednesday, July 3, 2024 – 10:00AM-4:00PM
Rangeley Town Park
The park will be alive with music, events, and all kinds of family fun. Stop by our booth and check out our special museum shop merchandise - all sales proceeds support the Rangeley Lakes Region Historical Society, which operates the Outdoor Heritage Museum and the Rangeley History Museum.
LUPINE FESTIVAL
Saturday, June 15, 2024 – 10:00AM - 4:00PM
Outdoor Heritage Museum, 8 Rumford Rd.,Oquossoc, ME
Admission to the Festival is FREE; $8 adult admission to see the Museum (FREE for Members and Kids 12 and under).
Are you a vendor interested in participating? Download our application here.
FREE ADMISSION to the OUTDOOR HERITAGE MUSEUM FOR ALL RANGELEY REGION LOCALS
Saturday May 25 - Sunday May 26, 2024
Just bring proof of residency for free admission if you’re a resident of Rangeley, Rangeley Plantation, Sandy River Plantation, Dallas Plantation, Oquossoc, and Wilson’s Mills!
Outdoor Heritage Museum OPENS for the 2024 Season
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - 10AM-4PM
Rangeley’s rich outdoor history, traditions, and personalities come alive in this special museum located in the charming village of Oquossoc. The Museum, named "Best Sporting Museum in New England" by Yankee Magazine, is a “can’t be missed destination for visitors of Western Maine.” Come view our new exhibit on the Rangeley Boat and check out all the fun programs and events we’ll be hosting all season long (see below). Don’t forget to visit the museum shop, which features books, apparel, art, glassware and a wide variety of gifts.