CARIBOU, Maine – Caribou’s popular summer tradition, Thursdays on Sweden Street, returns June 6 with old favorites and newcomers.
Launched in 2013, Thursdays on Sweden Street has become Caribou’s way of bringing more folks to that part of downtown throughout the summer. This year, Parks & Recreation Superintendent Gary Marquis is putting some new touches on a series that locals and visitors have enjoyed.
Caribou businesses Northern Maine Brewing Company and Par & Grill Restaurant will return to host outdoor cafes on July 25 and August 8, respectively. But this year, the cafe offerings have expanded to include Orono Brewing Company on June 6, Battery Steele Brewing of Portland June 20 and the Bangor-based Geaghan Brothers Brewing Co. July 11.
“It adds a different flavor [to the events]. We’re trying to change things up a little,” Marquis said.
Unlike past years, this summer’s Thursdays will not feature different themes but Marquis and city staff plan to add some northern Maine touches.
Just prior to June 6, Marquis will place 16-inch pots of annual flowers atop eight old-fashioned Aroostook potato barrels throughout Sweden Street. The flowers will come from Caribou-based Goughan’s Farm.
Caribou Public Works will be washing Sweden Street and repaint street lines before the kickoff, Marquis said.
If the weather forecast remains clear and sunny, there should be a strong turnout, Marquis said, especially after the threat of rain canceled several nights last year.
“Everybody’s getting excited,” Marquis said. “We’re hoping that the weather will cooperate. That’s when people really turn out.”
The musical line-up will feature entirely local bands: Shamrock (June 6), Marionette (June 20), Jerry T Band (July 11), Star City Syndicate (July 25) and Adam Ouellette & Company (August 8).
Per tradition, the July 25 event will be held in conjunction with Caribou Cares About Kids at Caribou Wellness & Recreation Center, 55 Bennett Drive.
All Thursdays on Sweden Street events begin at 6 p.m., including the kickoff June 6. Marquis said that at least 45 to 55 vendors, ranging from craftors to community groups, have signed up.
