Former Worumbo Mill site to host more events in Lisbon this summer

LISBON — The former Worumbo Mill site in downtown Lisbon Falls will host more activities and events this summer under the direction of a new nonprofit.

Friends of Worumbo was created in 2022 to manage and oversee activities at the new Worumbo Riverfront Event Center, located on the Androscoggin River. The nonprofit will be responsible for developing and maintaining the space.

Crews are installing emergency lighting and electricity on the site. Later this year, new sod will be put down to cover the event area. In the future, Friends of Worumbo also plans to add a pavilion, permanent bathrooms and road access around the site.

Christine Cain, councilor, owner of Olive Pit Brewing and member of Friends of Worumbo, said the nonprofit aims to make the former mill site the premier events center in the heart of Maine. She said Friends of Worumbo aims to be an event scheduler, not an event planner.

Still, the nonprofit is looking for community ideas for activities and events which can be hosted at the event center.

The site will be host to Lisbon’s new farmer’s market, which is planned to start June 4. Organizer Angelica Bundy of Lisbon said vendors will offer plants, wood crafts, meats and herbal remedies. She is working to find local farmers interested in selling fresh produce.

On June 17, the Maine Blues Festival will also return to Lisbon Falls for the second year. The main stage will be set up at the Worumbo Riverfront Event Center, with other music venues scattered throughout the downtown.

Other events at the site this summer include Smokey’s Greater Show Carnival during the Moxie Festival from July 7-9, Positive Change Lisbon’s concert series that begins July 15, the first Maine Surf Music Festival on Sept. 2 and the first Worunbo 5k run and walk Oct. 21.

The Surf Music Festival and the 5k run and walk will be fundraisers for Friends of Worumbo.

Friends of Worumbo is looking for community volunteers to help with general labor, marketing and event staffing. Those interested can reach out via their Facebook page.