Schedule
Schedule of Activities
A free family event.
Plan your day at the High Peaks Outdoor Heritage Festival! Check out the schedule for a full listing of demonstrations, discussions, musical performances, and family activities happening throughout the day at the Lottery Tent, Demonstration Arena, Starbird Building, Gazebo, and beyond. The Maine Moose Permit Lottery Drawing will kick off at 1:00 PM. Don’t miss out on the fun!
Our schedule is evolving, so please check back often. Note: Admission is free. Most activities are free.
Family Activities
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store: Cheer on young contestants in the Youth Moose Calling Contest. Try your hand at 4-H Archery. Test your aim at the Dunk Tank and maybe soak a Game Warden! Learn the art of Gyotaku fish printing. And that’s just the beginning! We’re still adding more family-friendly activities to make this day unforgettable.
Live Music
The Gazebo will be rocking all day with performances from Arizona Rose & the Rich Ric Band, bringing their unique blend of soulful melodies and lively rhythms, followed by the high-energy sounds of Hot Damn. Later, settle in for some classic bluegrass vibes with Mainly Grass. Don’t miss this chance to soak up the tunes and share in the fun—come listen, dance, and celebrate the spirit of the outdoors with us!
Demonstrations, Panels & Talks
Step right up for an engaging series of demonstrations and panel discussions! With exciting talks on the way, including Big Woods Bucks, Arthur Haines, NAVHDA, Hunting the West with Russ Lambert of Colorado Outfitters, Wild Game Culinary Seminar with Denny “Wild Cheff” Corriveau, and Daniel Vitalis, you won’t want to miss out —join us!
Explore Our Programs, Vendors & Food
Discover the full lineup of panels, talks, and interactive sessions at the High Peaks Outdoor Heritage Festival, where you can learn from experts about outdoor skills and conservation. Explore our wide variety of local artisans, outdoor specialists, and community organizations featuring unique crafts and gear, and satisfy your appetite with a diverse selection of food vendors offering everything from classic comfort foods to local specialties. Click below to learn more about all our programs, vendors, and food offerings.
There’s something for everyone at the HPOHF!
Demonstrations, Panels & Talks
Our panels, discussions, and talks bring together leading voices, expert guides, and passionate storytellers from the world of outdoor adventure.
- Calling Demo & Youth Moose Calling Contest: Witness the excitement of moose calling with a live demonstration, then cheer on young contestants as they compete in the Youth Moose Calling Contest. This interactive event is fun for all ages and highlights the unique culture of Maine’s moose country. Open to ages 5 – 12. Prizes for the top three.
- Big Woods Bucks: Discover Hal Blood’s secrets of tracking and hunting in Maine’s legendary big woods. The Big Woods Bucks team shares expert tips, stories, and strategies for pursuing trophy bucks in challenging terrain. This talk is a must for anyone passionate about whitetail hunting and the traditions of the North Woods.
- Sebasticook Chapter of North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA) Demonstration: Experience the impressive skills of versatile hunting dogs in action. NAVHDA trainers and their canine companions demonstrate obedience, tracking, and retrieving, showcasing the unique partnership between hunter and dog. Great for families and anyone interested in sporting dogs.
- Wild Game Culinary Seminar with Denny “Wild Cheff” Corriveau: Join celebrity chef Denny Corriveau for a wild game cooking seminar. Watch as he prepares delicious dishes using local ingredients and wild game, and pick up tips to elevate your own camp or kitchen cuisine.
- Daniel Vitalis: Daniel Vitalis, host of WildFed on the Outdoor Channel, will present an episode from his newest season at the festival. After the screening, Daniel will share his passion for wild foods, sustainable harvesting, and culinary adventure. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a leading voice in the movement to reconnect with nature and embrace a wilder way of life.
- Arthur Haines: Wild Edibles & Traditional Skills: Ethnobotanist Arthur Haines shares his expertise on wild edibles and traditional outdoor skills. Learn how to identify, harvest, and prepare wild foods, and gain insight into the rich natural heritage of Maine’s forests and fields.
- Hunting the West with Russ Lambert of Colorado Outfitters: Explore the adventure of Western big game hunting with Russ Lambert. Learn about planning, gear, and techniques for hunting elk, mule deer, and more in the Rockies. Ideal for hunters dreaming of their next big adventure.
- Ask the Pros: Join a powerhouse panel featuring Maine’s top guides and outdoor experts—including host Roger Lambert, Master Maine Guide with Maine Guide Service, and panelists Joe Kruse of Lake Parlin Lodge and The True North Lifestyle, Brandon Lane of Allagash Guide Service and the Maine Professional Guides Association, Lee Schanz of Schanzs Guide Service and Big Woods Bucks, and Ben Allen of Epic Adventure—as they reveal the secrets, strategies, and stories behind legendary moose hunts. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting, this event offers a unique opportunity to learn from the best, ask your burning questions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts who share your passion for Maine’s wild places.
- From Field to Camp: Processing and Packing Out a Moose: Join John Altman and the Hunting ME team at their Northwoods-style camp for an informal, hands-on experience in field processing and packing out a moose. Learn about breaking down and quartering a moose, essential tools and equipment, and how to properly cool and haul meat using Stone Glacier packs-with opportunities to try on weighted packs representing different moose cuts. This ongoing, interactive session offers expert guidance and a chance to win a Stone Glacier meat pack, empowering you to confidently tackle big game fieldwork.
- How to Film Your Hunt: Curious how to film and document your hunt like a pro? Stop by the Hunting ME camp throughout the festival for helpful tips, hands-on advice, and engaging conversation about capturing your moose hunt on camera. Whether you’re new to hunting videography or looking to polish your skills, this interactive session will help you tell your story and preserve your adventures.
- Meet & Greet with Zachary Fowler: Drop by anytime to meet Zachary Fowler, whose engaging demonstrations and interactive sessions will be running continuously throughout the festival. Zach is excited to connect with you and share his love for the outdoors.
- Gyotaku Demonstration: Discover the ancient art of Gyotaku-traditional Japanese fish printing-with live demonstrations happening all day long. Watch Zach Fowler in action, learn the step-by-step process, and even try your hand at creating your own unique fish prints. This hands-on, family-friendly activity is a perfect blend of art and nature for all ages.
- Dunk Tank with Game Wardens & Local Hotshots: Have a splash and support a good cause at the dunk tank, featuring Maine Game Wardens and local personalities. Step up, take your best shot, and enjoy some lighthearted fun while raising funds for community programs.
- Meet & Greet Augustus the Moose: Don’t miss your chance to meet Augustus the Moose, the festival’s beloved mascot. Perfect for photo ops and family fun, Augustus will be making appearances throughout the day to delight guests of all ages.
- Pancake Breakfast: Start your festival day right with a hearty pancake breakfast, served hot and fresh by local volunteers. Enjoy classic Maine hospitality and fuel up for a full day of outdoor adventure and activities.
- Beer Garden: Relax and unwind in the festival’s Beer Garden, featuring a selection of local brews. It’s the perfect spot to catch up with friends, enjoy live music, and soak in the festival atmosphere.
General Vendors
Our general vendor area showcases a diverse selection of local artisans, outdoor gear specialists, and creative merchants. Whether you’re searching for handcrafted goods, the latest in outdoor equipment, or one-of-a-kind souvenirs, you’ll find something to inspire your next adventure. Take your time to explore, chat with vendors, and support the vibrant community that makes our festival special.
- AAA New England
- Aurora Roofing & Solar
- Backcountry Hunters
- Bangor Savings Bank
- Big Woods Bucks
- BMC Guide Service
- Care & Share Food Closet
- CES
- Colorado Outfitters
- Crafty Gram’s Studio
- Daggett Overhead Doors
- Dead North Adventures
- Dickens Leatherworks
- DNA Tracking
- Duen Knives
- Eisenhaur Photography
- Epic Adventures
- Eve’s Garden
- Farmington Lions
- Fowler’s Makery & Mischief
- Franklin County Chamber of Commerce
- Franklin County Republicans
- Franklin Savings Bank
- Gun Owner’s ME
- High Peaks Alliance
- Howe Brook Outfitters
- Jack’s Trading Post
- Kora Shriners
- LEAP
- LeafFilter
- Maine Cardworks
- Maine Ext. Homemakers
- Maine Forest Service
- Maine Game Warden Fo.
- Maine Professional Guide Association Education Fund
- Maine Professional Guides
- The Maine Sportsman
- Maine Trappers Association
- Maine Women Hunters
- Maine Woods Whittling
- Malibu Maine
- The Man Cave
- Masons
- Minikins
- Mix Maine Media
- Moose Horn Guide Service
- Mountainside Power Sports
- Natural Resource Council
- NAVHDA Hunting Dogs
- OMM Outfitters
- On Track Outdoors
- Operation Reboot
- Origin
- The Pursuit Hunt
- Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce
- Rangeley Region Guides and Sportsmen’s Association
- Reel Recovery
- Ride for a Cure
- Ripley & Fletcher
- Skowhegan Sportsman
- Sportsman’s Alliance
- The Cabin
- The True North
- University of Maine at Augusta
- University of Maine at Farmington
- University of Maine at Orono
- United Insurance
- Washington County CC
- WildCheff
- Wilton Fish & Game
- Wood-Mizer
Food Vendors
From classic comfort foods to locally inspired specialties, our vendors offer a delicious array of options to fuel your day of adventure. Whether you’re craving a quick snack, a hearty meal, or something sweet, you’ll find a variety of tastes to satisfy every appetite.
- 207 Foodies LLC
- American Legion
- Backwoods Roasting LLC
- Danmark Consessions
- Farmington Fire Department
- Fresh Ella’s Ice Cream
- Hungry Mama LLC
- JH Concessions
- King & Queen French Fry
- Legacy Doughnuts
- MandM’s Ice Cream
- Red Barn, Inc.
- Smokin’ Pig
- Tex-Mex Express Authentic Mexican food
- Tripp’s Farmhouse Cafe
- Turcottes To Go
- Wilton Lions Club
- Ye Olde English Fish & Chips
Maine Moose Permit Lottery
One of the most anticipated moments of the High Peaks Outdoor Heritage Festival is the Maine Moose Permit Lottery Drawing, kicking off at 1:00 PM at the Farmington Fairgrounds. This annual event is a huge draw for outdoor enthusiasts across the state and beyond, as it determines who will receive one of Maine’s coveted moose hunting permits for the 2025 season.
In 2024, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife issued 4,105 permits, including 2,645 antlered and 1,460 antlerless permits.
Come and Experience Fowler’s Mischief & Makery
Fowler’s Makery and Mischief is your go-to destination for outdoor adventure, creativity, and survival inspiration! Founded by Zachary Fowler, winner of History Channel’s Alone Season 3, Fowler brings his off-grid lifestyle and incredible survival skills to life through his YouTube channel, where nearly 1 million subscribers tune in to watch him “Catch, Cook, & Create” across North America.
From outdoor cooking to wilderness living, Fowler’s videos are packed with fun and practical tips that will inspire your next adventure. Want to meet Fowler in person? Come say hi and join the adventure—he’d love to connect with you!
