For the seventh year in a row, Kennebunkport has ushered in summer with its Fine Living Festival. A celebration of all that embodies fine life, the Fine Living Festival honors incredible food, wine, and art, all within the confines of a quintessential coastal New England town. Each year the festival grows better, and 2011 is sure to eclipse this year’s event – despite its plethora of outstanding events.
A View from St. Ann's
This annual five day festival begins on the first Wednesday of June with the influx of talented artists into Kennebunkport, Maine, where they quickly disperse to paint in the open air. These incredible artists are know collectively as the Plein Air Painters. The opportunity to watch these skilled individuals at scenic venues continues for four days, so you can’t miss them. The next great event is truly a once in a lifetime experience. Imagine a specially crafted dinner for 12-16 by a famous chef flown in from across the nation. But it’s not just a dinner – it’s a gourmet feast paired with wine and inspired by an incredible piece of art, hosted in one of Kennebunkport’s incredible private mansions.
On Thursday, visitors experienced the Artist-In-Residence program at Kennebunkport bed and breakfasts, inns, and hotels, watched the filming of Chef’s Kitchen, and attended the acclaimed Festival Preview. Hosted by Tattinger, it was a chance view work from the festival artists while sampling an array of fine champagne and mingling with winemakers, chefs, and artists.
Friday yielded more wonderful events, while still leaving opportunity to shop, dine, and enjoy the scenery that makes Kennebunkport an incredible vacation destination. In the evening, St. Ann’s opened its doors for the Twilight Soiree, a chance to see one of the most 
gracious historic buildings in Kennebunkport and enjoy delectable hors d’oeuvres, sample fine wines and champagnes, and view more fine art.
Saturday brought more gallery exhibit openings and art viewing opportunities, as well as the Grand Tasting. Hosted by Cellardoor Winery, the tasting was blessed with incredible weather - perfect for a riverside wine tasting, incredible nibbling, and fine art viewing – and, of course, mingling with other foodies, artists, and visitors and residents of Kennebunkport. The evening brought the finest event for your early summer vacation – the Chef’s Gala, a multi-course dinner accompanied by wine, music, and dancing.
Sunday brought the opportunity to tour Kennebunkport inns and other Kennebunkport lodging establishments, as well as view great artwork and chat with their astounding creators.
So make sure not to miss the Kennebunkport Fine Living Festival 2011, and now that summer has officially begun, book your Maine summer vacation at the Maine Stay Inn and Cottages today.
opened its doors last week in Wells, Maine. A few short miles from Kennebunkport Maine, Yank’s sits on Route 1 – prime real estate, if you ask me! So while you’re out and about, look for their charming sign and pop in for a simple, but phenomenal, meal or snack. While dogs cooked to perfection on their flattop grill is George’s specialty, they offer the option of steamed as well. Chicken tenders and veggie dogs feature prominently on the menu, making Yank’s Franks perfect for the whole family. A slew of toppings are available for your dog, but ask for their signature style (relish, onions, and mustard) – and you can’t go wrong! I would never have guessed that raw onions would be a hit on a hot dog, but boy, was I misinformed. And be sure to 
follow it up with a “Cool Dog,” a hot dog inspired ice cream sandwich.
