There is exciting news about the upcoming Washington County Fair pageants. This year marks the second annual event, building on the success of its inaugural pageant, when Shayna Cook was crowned as Miss Washington County Fair, Harper McLean as Teen Washington County Fair, and Madison Gardner as Junior Miss Washington County Fair. Their grace, poise, and dedication served as an inspiration to all.

Jayna Smith

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Ferry Point Bridge will once again be adorned with the American and Canadian flags in the days leading up to the International Homecoming Festival, setting the stage for this year’s Opening Ceremony on Wednesday, August 6.

Jayna Smith

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Get ready to celebrate at this year’s International Homecoming Festival parade, kicking off at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 9. The parade will begin from Calais Motor Inn and proceed through downtown Calais before crossing into St. Stephen.

With the 2025 theme "We Hug It Out," organizers are planning a festive and heartwarming event that celebrates unity and connection across the border.

Volunteers recently worked a road toll in Calais to help raise funds for this year’s International Homecoming Festival. Contributions are still welcome and can be made by mailing a check to IHF, c/o City of Calais, PO Box 413, Calais, ME 04619.  (IHF photo)

Wednesday, August 6

10 a.m.-4 p.m. CDN – Around the Block Quilt Show at St. Peter's Anglican Church, 20 Church Street. Come and enjoy the work of the St. Croix Cotton Mill Quilters and their hand-quilting friends from the Anglican Parish of St. Stephen. Selected vintage quilts on loan from the Charlotte County museum will be on display.

11 a.m.-dusk CDN – Troy’s Amusements presents the festival Mini-Carnival. Rides, cotton candy, candy apples, and more. Open daily during festival at Border Arena, King Street.

Barbara McArthur of Alexander recently celebrated her 100th birthday with a surprise party held at her family home. In honor of the milestone, she was presented with a Centenarian Certificate of Honor from the Town of Alexander, along with Alexander’s Golden Cane — a symbol of longevity and community esteem. Her name was also added to the Golden Cane Plaque, commemorating her place in the town’s history.  

Jayna Smith

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Young athletes in the greater-Calais area have an exciting opportunity to sharpen their soccer skills this summer, thanks to a collaboration between Calais Parks and Recreation and Brazilian United. The two organizations have teamed up to offer a week-long soccer camp focused on skill development, teamwork, and respect — both on and off the field.

Jayna Smith

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The annual Street Fair, always a tradition of International Homecoming Festival, is set to return to downtown Calais with all the excitement and charm festivalgoers have come to expect. Hosted by the St. Croix Valley Chamber of Commerce, this year’s fair promises to attract hundreds of residents and visitors for a day full of food, fun, and local flair on Saturday, August 9, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Nature lovers of all ages are invited to experience the beauty of late summer in Downeast Maine with three guided walks sponsored by Friends of Moosehorn, Fundy Audubon, and Maine Master Naturalists. These free public events offer a unique opportunity to explore local trails and coastal habitats, observe wildlife, and learn from knowledgeable naturalists.

Jayna Smith

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The cross-border tradition that defines the International Homecoming Festival parade has hit an unexpected roadblock this year. The Municipal District of St. Stephen’s (MDSS) council voted Thursday, July 31, to cancel the Canadian side of the parade — without notifying U.S. Chairperson Andrea Walton, who learned of the decision through a Facebook post.