PERRY — The fifth annual Rhubarb Festival will take place from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 6 at Kendall Farm in Perry in the Way Downeast region.
This year’s festival poster features student artwork selected from 10 entries submitted by Calais Middle/High School students under the direction of art teacher Bobbi Tardif. First place was awarded to Exie Crowe for a whimsical rhubarb stalk in a chaise longue. Second place went to Madeline DelMonaco for a “rhubarb roadster” and third place to Khloe Milburn for a bold, Japanese-inspired rhubarb anime warrior.
Crowe received a $100 gift certificate to Paynted in Woodland. DelMonaco received a $50 gift certificate to Crumbs’ Cafe in Calais and Milburn received a $25 gift certificate to My Favorite Things 2 in Calais. All student participants also received two festival wristbands and a pink handkerchief.
This year’s festival will feature an expanded schedule from noon to 6 p.m. with activities and entertainment throughout the day. Attendees can enjoy face painting, a self-directed obstacle course, a rhubarb-themed art project, raffle drawings and the annual rhubarb stalk eating competition. Returning favorites include mocktails paired with rhubarbuterie boards, along with live local music, demonstrations and a variety of food and craft vendors.
New this year is the Rhubarb Garb Fashion Show, inspired by the 2026 theme “Rhubarb is Sexy.” Attendees are encouraged to wear rhubarb-inspired outfits — think pink and green — and can enhance their look at the festival before joining the show for a chance to win prizes for most creative, most beautiful and sexiest.
Participants can create their own looks using personal materials, at the festival or by visiting Amy at Bingville Style Shop in Eastport, who will be available to help “zhuzh up” rhubarb garb.
Organizers are currently seeking volunteer bakers and cooks to contribute rhubarb dishes to the popular tasting table.
For more information about the event, vending, or contributing as a baker, contact Georgie Kendall at 207-214-1124 or [email protected].
For schedule updates, visit www.kendallfarmcottages.com/rhubarbfestival.
Attendees are also encouraged to take part in the 35th annual Cobscook Bay Run/Walk benefiting Down East Hospice Volunteers, taking place Sunday, June 7 in Pembroke. To register or donate visit runsignup.com/cobscookraces. Down East Hospice Volunteers provide invaluable support to the Way Downeast community.
