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Plus: Biddeford finances under fire; local live music; and more.‌
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February 04, 2026

Covering the communities of Biddeford, Saco and Old Orchard Beach

Winter in Maine can feel long and dreary, with constant storms and freezing temperatures making it difficult to get outside. But Punxsutawney Phil predicted six more weeks of winter, so we'd all better make the most of it! 


Luckily, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Maine this month, starting with Biddeford's annual WinterFest this weekend. Enjoy late-night sledding, an adults-only afterparty, and family-friendly activities all weekend long. Check out other fun events in your area in this week's newsletter.


In this week's newsletter: Read about a downtown parking plan controversy in Biddeford, a possible state vote on transgender athletes in girls sports, and late tax filings in Biddeford.


As always, feel free to email me with story ideas and photos! 


Thanks for reading,

- Sydney Richelieu

MORE NEWS

An owl enjoys the snow on Monday, captured by local photographer Jay Hopkins. Send in your photos for a chance to be featured in this newsletter!


Biddeford council approves $20,000 parking plan implemented by former officials

Biddeford owes IRS over $520,000 for late tax filings

Koi Asian Cuisine closes in Biddeford

6 Maine events this week include Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival

As ICE keeps people home, leaders in Maine brace for evictions

Maine couple scammed out of $1.3M sue financial adviser

Why Maine could soon vote on transgender athletes in girls sports

First months of Maine winter have been colder and snowier than recent years

Are heart attacks from shoveling snow common? | Fact brief

Arundel to consider mobile home rent stabilization after residents’ pleas for help

BIDDEFORD NEWS
SACO NEWS
OLD ORCHARD BEACH NEWS
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COMMUNITY VOICES/AROUND TOWN

The City of Biddeford is inviting residents to share their feedback on recreation needs and priorities in Biddeford through a short public survey. The survey is designed to inform future decision-making on the use of the $6 million General Obligation Bond approved by voters in November 2025 to fund improvements to the City’s recreation facilities.


Community engagement on the Recreation Bond will continue throughout the spring, including planned ward meetings, a public hearing, and interactive outreach at upcoming community events. These efforts are intended to ensure residents have multiple opportunities to participate in the decision-making process. See the survey and read more here.

THINGS TO DO

For live music, head to Mick's Sports Bar on Thursday, Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. for an evening of country music with Henry Lowery. Bring a friend, grab a cocktail, and enjoy some twangy tunes!


If you love beer, don't miss a free sip and learn with Nonesuch River Brewing at Brew England in downtown Biddeford on Friday, Feb. 6 from 4-8 p.m. Try some of Nonesuch Brewing's best beers, and learn about the science behind what makes beer taste so good! 


WinterFest is here! Get your slide on at the adults-only sledding and after-party social with Biddeford Recreation and Brickyard Hollow on Friday, Feb. 6 from 6-9:30 p.m. on Adams Street in downtown Biddeford. Then, enjoy family-friendly activities all weekend long! 


Get crafty at a special Valentine's Day gift making workshop at the Hive in Saco on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., promoted by Banded Brim Hat Bar. Make a special gift for yourself or your valentine! Patch up a hat, bag, jeans, tote, or bring your own item.

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Sydney Richelieu is a community news reporter for the Biddeford region and previously reported for the Biddeford-Saco-Old Orchard Beach Courier. Sydney grew up in Kennebunk and is a graduate of Emerson College. She can usually be found at a coffee shop, concert, or hiking trail when not reporting. Send feedback and suggestions to Sydney. You can support this newsletter by encouraging friends and family to sign up and explore our other newsletters. 

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