Summer Storytelling Series: Batson River Brewing & Distilling

The Maine Irish Heritage Center is bringing the cherished Irish tradition of storytelling back to Maine this summer!

In days gone by neighbors would gather at night in the local ceili house, the home of a storyteller. They came for conversation, and to hear stories of their community, its history, old tales handed down by the ancestors, some music. These gatherings helped build community and preserve the culture and values of the Irish people.

We invite you to join us this summer at one of our storytelling events! Bring a story, a poem, a song, or simply come to listen and enjoy an evening among friends—or friends-in-the-making.

But wait, “Does my story/poem/song have to be Irish?” Absolutely not! These events are celebrations of the oral tradition of every culture, and we would love to hear anything you want to tell!

Event Details:
Location: Batson River, Portland, Maine
Time: 6:30pm-7:30pm
Host: Cathy Furness
Story Guidelines:
Stories, songs, or poems should be 10 minutes or less
A timekeeper will help us keep things moving
No hate speech – creative freedom is welcome, but kindness and inclusivity are essential
All are welcome – come to share or simply to listen
Storytelling is central to Irish culture—as it is to so many cultures around the world. These outdoor events are part of MIHC’s mission to share this tradition across Maine while also supporting local businesses and gathering spaces. Let’s build community together, one story at a time.

About Batson River:
At Batson River, everything we do is inspired by Maine’s outdoor heritage. From the vibe you feel when you first walk through the door to the curated cocktails we take so much pride in pouring, we’re here to bring all the fun, style, and energy of the Maine outdoor experience to downtown Portland.