September
Monthly Roundup
Welcome to the Monthly Roundup, your go-to guide for what’s happening at the University of Southern Maine and across the Greater Portland area each month! From campus performances, concerts, and student events to local festivals, cultural happenings, and activities throughout the region, this series will keep you connected to what’s new, what’s next, and what’s worth checking out across our Portland and Gorham campuses and beyond.
What’s next at USM
USM’s largest resource fair, hosted annually by the Office of Student Engagement and Belonging. Explore what campus and community life has to offer as departments, student groups, organizations, and local businesses come together to welcome incoming students.
Join Recreation for a single-elimination Super Smash Brothers Tournament with prizes for first, second, and third place. Food and other gaming stations will be open throughout the event.
USM’s annual on-campus student hiring event. Meet face-to-face with departments currently hiring for federal work-study and department-funded student positions. Student Financial Services will be on-site to help determine work-study eligibility and answer questions.
Celebrate the start of the semester with fall-themed activities, games, music, and food as part of Homecoming Weekend! Students, families, friends, alumni, faculty, and staff are all welcome.
September 2026 in Southern Maine
Maine PoutineFest
Sept. 19 | 11:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Join thousands of food lovers for a celebration of poutine featuring top Maine restaurants, live music, family-friendly activities, and vote for the People’s Choice Best Poutine award. This event sells out quickly!
Cost: $55
Location: Thompson’s Point, Portland
Cumberland Fair
Sept. 27–Oct. 3
A classic Maine fair experience featuring rides, exhibits, and outdoor events. Cash only for admission — ATMs available at the gates.
Cost: $15
Location: Cumberland County Fairgrounds, Cumberland
Common Ground Country Fair
Sept. 25–27
MOFGA’s 50th annual celebration of rural living features over 1,000 exhibitors and speakers, highlighting organic agriculture, sustainable living, and vibrant communities. This one is a bit farther out, but we promise it’s worth the drive.
Cost: $17–$25
Location: Common Ground Education Center, Unity
Did you know…
The opening weeks of college are one of the most important times for building relationships, connecting with campus resources, and developing a sense of belonging. Research shows that a strong sense of belonging is linked to better academic performance, lower stress, and a greater likelihood of graduating.
Spotted on campus this month
Spotted in Gorham
Guitar, monitor, and amp in hand—the essentials for a great first semester. Welcome to campus, Huskies!
