A Day of Outdoor Adventure and Tradition
On July 2, 2025, the heart of Maine’s High Peaks region pulsed with excitement and community pride as over 5,000 people gathered for the annual High Peaks Outdoor Heritage Festival and the much-anticipated Maine Moose Lottery. Hosted by the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce and the High Peaks Alliance, this year’s celebration was a resounding success, thanks to the dedication of countless volunteers, demonstrators, and local partners.
Farmington, known as the gateway to the High Peaks, transformed into a vibrant hub of outdoor activities, hands-on demonstrations, and family-friendly fun. Festival-goers enjoyed everything from wildlife exhibits and sporting demonstrations to local food vendors and live entertainment. The highlight of the day was the Maine Moose Lottery, where over 4,000 coveted permits were drawn for the 2025 Maine Moose hunt—a tradition that continues to unite hunters and outdoor enthusiasts from across the state.
“The spirit of collaboration and community was on full display in Farmington, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who played a part,” said JP Fortier, Executive Director of the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce. “Events like this are only possible through the hard work and generosity of many. Thank you for helping us celebrate Maine’s outdoor heritage and making this festival a truly memorable day for our community.”
Community Support Makes It Possible
The festival’s success was a true team effort. Special thanks go to the Town of Farmington and its dedicated Police, Fire, EMS, and Public Works departments, whose support ensured a safe and welcoming environment for all. The Franklin County Agricultural Society, including Neal Yeaton, Eddie Hastings, and Rupert Pratt, also played a crucial role in making the event possible.
Behind the scenes, a tireless planning committee—featuring volunteers like Shannon Smith, Al Kaplan, John Rogers, Katherine and Jerry Woodman, and many more—worked for months to bring the festival to life.
This year’s festival was generously supported by Franklin Savings Bank as the presenting sponsor, along with Bangor Savings Bank, LL Bean, United Insurance Group, Inc., Fowler’s Mischief & Makery, Mix Maine Media, Mountain Side Power Sports, Central Maine Power, University of Maine at Farmington, and Ripley & Fletcher Used Cars.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the many volunteers who kept things running smoothly throughout the day, and to Kelsea and Jennings Pinkham for their help with post-event clean-up.
Giving Back: Dunk Tank Raises Over $1,000 for Youth Program
One of the festival’s most popular attractions, the dunk tank, raised $1,070 for the Rangeley Region Guides & Sportsmen’s Association’s Junior Maine Guide Program. This fun and spirited activity supports the next generation of outdoor stewards. Special thanks to the brave local leaders and officials who took the plunge, including Sgt. Ryan Close, Chief Ken Charles, Chief Richard Caton IV, Warden Kris MacCabe, Forest Ranger Kent Nelson, and Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Commissioner Judy Camuso.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the sun set on a day filled with laughter, learning, and community connection, organizers announced that the 2026 Maine Moose Lottery will be hosted in Acton, Maine. The tradition of celebrating Maine’s outdoor heritage will continue in a new community, so stay tuned for more details on next year’s festival!
