May When You Breathe in Hope
Every year, in eager anticipation, we await the arrival of spring—the return of light, the chorus of migrating birds filling the air with song. And every year, on the coast of Maine, we wait.
April, with its lengthening days, kindles a tender sense of hope. But in Maine, spring does not truly arrive until May.
May is a heady month. Afternoon light stretches low and golden through still-bare trees until, almost overnight, the landscape transforms. Branches shimmer with the brightest chartreuse green, and suddenly the world feels dreamlike. The air is sweet with lilac, honeysuckle, and apple blossoms. Daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths burst into vivid color across the landscape, while in the woods, tender ferns unfurl and illuminate the forest floor.
As the tree leaf out, the woods become a cool and shady retreat. In May, the forests of Maine do not simply bloom—they glow.
May is a month to breathe in hope.
In the realm of human awakening, we kicked off our summer series at the Fifth Maine Museum with our dear friend Chris Moore and his band Yard Sauce. Their dynamic and diverse offerings matched only by the depth of their talent. It was a beautiful night at the beloved Fifth Maine, In the very same week, we welcomed Senate candidate Graham Platner to Peaks Island. Both events felt equally inspiring — opportunities to gather with our neighbors in real time, to hold our hearts and minds wide open to what is possible.
Like the spring blossoming all around us, I feel a movement toward what is real, true, and beautiful. There is hope in this moment — a reminder to look deeply and lovingly toward our communities and to move, however awkwardly, imperfectly, or haltingly, toward creating a more perfect union.
We’ll bring both old and new traditions to Peaks Fest this year. On Friday night, we welcome Brenda Castles for a screening of her film Plight of the Bumble Bee, accompanied by a live performance of the film score by Irish musicians and tradition bearers Brenda Castles and Eamon O’Leary.
Plight of the Bumble Bee is a short film that dives into the world of bees, exploring their connection to Irish religion, folklore, and biodiversity. It highlights their vital role in our ecosystems, the challenges they face, and the ways we can help secure their survival — and, ultimately, our own.
Then on Sunday, we’ll gather for a good old-fashioned potluck supper and contra dance at the Lions Club to celebrate the Summer Solstice. The mighty Owen Marshall and Liana Wolk will provide the driving force behind this joyful community event. If you attended last year’s dance at the Lions Club, you already know how special it was — and we hope you’ll help spread the word. This is a true community celebration: free, open to all, and rooted in togetherness. Bring a dish, bring a beverage, and bring a friend.