“The Big Chill” First Planning Meeting Notes

Representatives of Heart of Biddeford, Nibblesford Cheese Shop, and Round Turn Distilling recently gathered interested partners to plan a new WinterFest market-style event on Sat., Feb. 7, 2026 above Portland Pie (13W-2).

It would run from 11 a.m.–10 p.m. with food, drinks, makers, art, and an evening dance party. The group outlined a full-day schedule, vendor recruitment strategy, permitting needs, volunteer opportunities, and logistics for parking, seating, and ticketing. A working title of “The Big Chill” and a tagline of “Raise Your Spirits” is currently in use while final event naming continues. The event will be free to attend, “snow or shine,” and aims to highlight greater Biddeford food and beverage businesses alongside regional makers and artists. Keep reading below for a full report!

“The Big Chill” (working event title)
Date/Time: Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
Location: Event space above Portland Pie (donated for the day)

The event will flow through three broad phases:

• 11 a.m.–4 p.m.: Daytime market featuring makers, crafters, small businesses, food, and art.

• 4-6 p.m. – Late Afternoon Transition: Possible art opener or low-key programming to bridge day into evening.

• 6–10 p.m.: Dinner foods, alcohol service, and an evening social/dance component.

Event will be held snow or shine.

Funding for the DJ, Insurance, Security, Permits still TBA. One potential source is a small fee for exhibitors, though part of the goal is to keep this event as free as possible.

Vendor & Artist Participation

• HOB will release a call for makers, crafters, sellers, and small businesses, including individualized outreach, through DM’s or paper delivery.

• Participants may choose day, evening, or full-day slots.

• Food and drink vendors will be limited to Biddeford and Saco, while makers may come from a wider region.

HOB Coordination & Logistics

HOB will take the lead on securing:

• Required alcohol permits

• Event insurance

• Security

• State approvals related to food and alcohol (with Jules coordinating conversations around hard alcohol)

Customers will purchase tickets onsite to exchange for beverages (related to how the event is permitted), but probably food purchases will happen at each vendor.

Note: A discussion is needed to identify funding for permits, insurance, and security, as well as DJ Remy.

Parking, Access & Wayfinding

• Goal is to secure free or low-cost parking garage access for the day.

• Partners agreed on strong “Event This Way” directional signage throughout the downtown.

• A trolley loop may be considered if feasible.

Event Environment

• Create a comfortable seating/lounge area, potentially with plants from Moon Lady Plants or similar partners (near Tulu).

• The Brightr platform (from the Holiday Stroll) may be used again for vendor check-ins and customer engagement.

Volunteers

Teams, UNE students, and other community groups will be approached for volunteer roles.

Next Planning Meeting

Monday, Dec. 15, 6 p.m. at HOB (205 Main St, Ste 103, Biddeford ME 04005)