FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Logger Fest 2026 returns to Fort Kent, Maine
Three-day festival celebrates the logging industry and the people who built northern Maine
FORT KENT, Maine (AP) — The Greater Fort Kent Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the return of Logger Fest 2026, a three-day celebration of the logging industry and the communities of the St. John Valley. The event will take place May 15–17 in downtown Fort Kent and at Lonesome Pine Trails.
Now in its second year, Logger Fest brings together loggers, truckers, families and visitors from across Maine and beyond for a weekend of competitions, entertainment and community pride.
“Logger Fest is about so much more than a festival,” said Beth Marin, executive director of the Greater Fort Kent Area Chamber of Commerce. “It is a celebration of the men and women whose work has shaped this region for generations. The logging industry is the backbone of northern Maine, and Logger Fest is our community’s way of saying thank you.”
What to expect
Friday, May 15 begins with a free Logger’s Lunch at 11 a.m. at the Sly Brook Snow Riders Club, sponsored by NorState Federal Credit Union. The afternoon features lumberjack and Jill competitions and vendor booths at Lonesome Pine Trails, followed by live entertainment and cornhole at JD’s Tavern. The evening concludes with the Light Parade at 8:30 p.m., traveling from Market Street to Rock’s Diner. All area businesses and organizations are encouraged to participate with lighted floats.
Saturday, May 16 serves as the centerpiece of the weekend. Log loading and cable throwing competitions will take place at Lonesome Pine Trails, along with performances by the Axe Women of Maine and a Tigercat simulator experience. Vendor booths and food trucks will be available throughout the day.
In the afternoon, the Logger Fest street party will take place on Main Street near JD’s Tavern. Activities include arm wrestling, tug of war, inflatables, a petting zoo, face painting and live music. Fireworks will conclude the evening.
Sunday, May 17 begins with the Logger’s Breakfast at Rock’s Diner starting at 6 a.m. The day continues with the Logger Fest Golf Tournament at Fort Kent Golf Club. The four-person scramble is open to all skill levels at a cost of $240 per team.
Proceeds from the tournament will be reinvested locally to support the Forestry Operations and Heavy Equipment programs at the St. John Valley Technical Center, helping prepare students for careers in industries essential to the regional economy.
Admission and event guidelines
Admission is $10 for individuals ages 12 and older. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free. A wristband provides access to the Ski Tow venue throughout the weekend and must remain on at all times for re-entry.
The beer garden area is restricted to those age 21 and older. A valid ID is required. No personal coolers are allowed at event venues.
A community event with regional impact
Logger Fest is supported by sponsors and volunteers representing the logging industry, regional businesses and the broader Aroostook County community.
The logging industry employs thousands of workers across northern Maine. When related industries such as trucking, equipment operation and wood manufacturing are included, forestry plays a major role in the regional economy. Maine is the most forested state in the nation, with nearly 90 percent of its land covered by trees.
“Logger Fest exists to recognize the hardworking men and women of this industry and to celebrate an industry that continues to support our communities and shape our way of life,” said Lana Voisine, Logger Fest committee member and vice president of the Chamber.
About the Greater Fort Kent area
Located at the northern terminus of U.S. Route 1 and across the St. John River from Clair, New Brunswick, the Greater Fort Kent area features a strong Acadian culture and a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities.
The region is also home to the University of Maine at Fort Kent, which will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2028.
Event details
- Event: Logger Fest 2026
- Dates: May 15–17, 2026
- Locations: Downtown Fort Kent and Lonesome Pine Trails
- Admission: $10 (ages 12+), free for children under 12
- Golf registration: fortkentgolfclub.org/loggerfest-tourney
- Email: fkloggerfest@gmail.com
- Phone: 207-231-2630
- Facebook: Logger Fest
Media inquiries
Members of the media may request press credentials, interviews and photos by contacting Macey Thibodeau at fkloggerfest@gmail.com or by calling 207-231-2630.