Your Guide to Early Bird Shopping Around Maine Starting This Saturday
What is Early Bird?
One town that always gets into Early Bird is Damariscotta. Having lived in that area for the vast majority of my life I thought Early Bird was as common as Black Friday. It wasn't until I made an offhand comment about Early Bird and someone looked at me like I had several heads that it wasn't as common as I had thought.
Early Bird does vary from town to town but it's essentially when all the local businesses open their doors extra early for some fantastic discounts. Almost like Small Business Saturday before that truly took off.
Early Bird-Damariscotta
The small midcoast town in years past has hosted a traditional Early Bird day with many shops opening at 6 am. Like in 2020, in 2021 they're mixing things up with the Not-So-Early Bird Sale this Saturday, November 6th.
In an effort to protect shoppers and workers while the pandemic still continues the event will be spread out throughout the day and not condensed into just the morning hours. That way the small shops aren't as crowded.
Be sure to stop at the table outside of Newcastle Realty to participate in the raffle. All prizes are from participating merchants in the area such as King Eider's Pub, Fernalds, Penalty Box, and more! For more information click here.
Early Bird-Freeport
Freeport is one of Maine's top shopping destinations so it's no wonder this area participates in Early Bird fun! Just like Damariscotta, Freeport's event will take place this Saturday, November 6th. Looking for Sperry's? Sperry is offering BOGO 50% off PLUS 50% off a 3rd pair! For the little ones, you'll get 20% off your purchase at Island Treasure Toys and more!
Keep your eye out for their Early Bird Ambassador who will be surprising shoppers with gift cards to local businesses. Full details can be found here.
Early Bird-Ellsworth
Ellsworth is also hosing Early Bird. Amy's Salon & Spa is offering 20% off Aveda products, Darlings Automall and Darlings Chevrolet will be offering 50% off an oil change/tire rotation certificate, and so much more. You can truly find something for everyone on your list. More details on Ellsworth Early Bird can be found here.
Early Bird-Brunswick
The following weekend over to Brunswick for their Downtown Early Bird Sale on Saturday, November 13th starting at 6 am. Cool As A Moose is offering 20% off the entire store all day, the iconic Wild Oats Bakery & Cafe is offering gradual discounts with 20% off gift cards from 8 am to 9 am, 15% off 9 am to 10 am, and 10% off 10 am to 11 am. Don't forget Maine's favorite chocolate, Wilbur's of Maine offering 15% off regular-priced items all day. Get the full details here.
Early Bird-Reny's
One of Maine's beloved retailers, Reny's will have their very own Early Bird sale, but to know the details you have to sign up to become an "Adventurer" on their e-mail list.
Keep your eyes peeled for other Early Bird events over the next few weeks and happy shopping!