More than 2,500 people attended the inaugural First Tracks: Northeast Snow Show on Nov. 7-8 at Thompson’s Point in Portland, bringing together winter sports enthusiasts, Maine outdoor businesses and ski areas to kick off the 2026-27 winter season. Organized by Maine Outdoor Brands and Thompson’s Point, the two-day event featured more than 60 vendors, presentations by winter sports experts, gear demonstrations and outdoor films.
Jenny Kordick of Maine Outdoor Brands said, “We couldn’t be more thrilled with First Tracks’ first year, from the turnout to the vendor experience to the caliber of speakers. Extra touches made it feel like a true celebration of winter: films on the big screen, free gear repairs and a Kids Zone that kept the whole family engaged. Our outdoor community is strongest when we collaborate, and this weekend proved it.”
Among the weekend’s highlights was a standing-room-only presentation by meteorologist Keith Carson and Donny Pelletier exploring the upcoming winter season. Additional programming featured Maine ski industry professionals discussing snowmaking and mountain operations, as well as demonstrations, winter recreation workshops and screenings from the Maine Outdoor Film Festival.
“The inaugural First Tracks Show was a success on all fronts,” said Chris Carleton of Allspeed Cyclery & Snow, one of the vendors. “Everyone I spoke to, from patrons to vendors, was blown away by the quality of the event. This event gave both brands and patrons something that our state has been missing: a celebration of Maine-based winter outdoor recreation. We can’t wait to participate again.”
“What an incredible first show! The energy throughout the event was amazing, with a great crowd, enthusiastic participants, and outstanding vendors. The feedback and overall experience were overwhelmingly positive, and there was a real buzz in the air. It was exciting to see so many people come together to celebrate Maine’s incredible outdoor recreation opportunities and all that winter has to offer. My hat is off to Maine Outdoor Brands for putting together such a fantastic inaugural event and getting First Tracks off to a tremendous start,” said Jeff McCabe, director of the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation.
First Tracks will return in November 2027 with more details to follow.
About First Tracks: Northeast Snow Show
First Tracks: Northeast Snow Show is Maine’s winter kickoff sports and outdoor lifestyle expo, bringing together outdoor recreation brands, ski areas, retailers, service providers, organizations and winter enthusiasts for two days of gear, demonstrations, educational programming and community at Thompson’s Point in Portland. First Tracks is organized by Maine Outdoor Brands and Thompson’s Point.
