National Maine Day

National Maine Day is observed annually on December 21, recognizing the unique culture, history, and natural beauty of the 23rd state to join the Union. This celebration highlights everything that makes the Pine Tree State special, from its rugged Atlantic coastline and maritime traditions to its vast forests and blueberry fields.

History of National Maine Day

This holiday is part of a series of National State Days introduced by the National Day Calendar in 2017 to honor each state in the order they entered the Union. Maine officially became a state on March 15, 1820, as part of the Missouri Compromise, separating from Massachusetts to balance the ratio of free and slave states. Before statehood, the region had a long history of settlement by the Wabanaki Confederacy and later by French and English colonists who established fishing and trading posts along the coast.

The date December 21 was assigned to Maine within the National Day Calendar’s schedule, distinct from the actual statehood anniversary in March. It provides a specific moment near the winter solstice to appreciate the state’s hearty character. Historically, Maine has been a center for maritime industry, logging, and textile manufacturing, eventually evolving into “Vacationland,” a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts and artists seeking inspiration from its dramatic landscapes.

Why is National Maine Day important?

Maine holds a distinct place in the American imagination as a symbol of rugged independence and natural splendor. It is the northeastern-most state in the U.S. and is the first place in the country to see the sunrise during certain times of the year, specifically from the summit of Cadillac Mountain. This geographical uniqueness is matched by its vast wilderness; it is the most heavily forested state in the nation, with roughly 90% of its land covered in trees, earning it the nickname “The Pine Tree State.”

Economically and culturally, Maine is a powerhouse of specific industries that define its identity. It produces nearly 90% of the nation’s lobster supply, making it the undeniable lobster capital of the United States. Additionally, it is a leading producer of wild blueberries. Beyond food, the state has a rich literary legacy, serving as the home and setting for the works of renowned authors like Stephen King, whose novels have made the fictional towns of Maine famous worldwide.

• It celebrates the state’s vital contribution to the U.S. seafood industry.
• The day honors the preservation of massive stretches of American wilderness.
• It recognizes the unique “Down East” dialect and cultural resilience.
• The observance highlights Acadia National Park, a crown jewel of the northeast.
• It acknowledges the state’s role in literary and artistic history.

How to Celebrate National Maine Day

The most authentic way to celebrate is through food, specifically by enjoying a classic Maine meal. If you have access to fresh seafood, preparing a steamed lobster dinner or a lobster roll is the ultimate tribute. For dessert, wild blueberry pie or anything made with maple syrup fits the theme perfectly. If you are not a cook, look for Maine-produced goods like Moxie soda or whoopie pies, which are the official state treat, to bring a taste of New England to your table.

For a cultural approach, dive into the works of Maine’s renowned artists and writers. You might spend the evening reading a Stephen King thriller or a poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who was born in Portland. If you enjoy the outdoors, even if you are not in Maine, wearing flannel and sturdy boots—perhaps from the iconic Maine-based company L.L. Bean—while taking a walk in the woods can help you channel the state’s outdoorsy spirit.

• Prepare a dinner featuring lobster, clams, or clam chowder.
• Read a book by a Maine author like Stephen King or E.B. White.
• Wear flannel, boots, or outdoor gear to embrace the “lumbersexual” aesthetic.
• Eat a whoopie pie or a slice of wild blueberry pie.
• Plan a future trip to visit Acadia National Park or Portland.

National Maine Day Dates Table