The Monhegan Abundance Festival is centered the start of the island's lobstering season which runs from Oct. 1 to June 7. Participants are encouraged to observe the island's long tradition of Trap Day, which begins at dawn when the captains load the boats with their traps and commence their nine month lobster season as a united fleet.

“It is truly a sight to behold. The tradition is palpable in the air,” said Tara Hire, a year-round resident.

The celebration will begin on Sept. 30 and run through Oct. 2. Festivities include a fermented foods workshop presented by Tara Hire of Monhegan Wellness. She will demonstrate how to make several fermented foods, speak to their health benefits and provide a tasting. Fiore Artisan Olive Oil & Vinegars and Breakwater Vineyards will provide a joint tasting of their products. Both companies are local to the Midcoast area.

Other highlights include a cookbook signing at the Monhegan Memorial Library by Maine author, Elise Richer, tours of the Historical and Cultural Museum, a tour and tasting at the island's brewery, Monhegan Brewing Company, planting demonstrations by the Island Farm Project and a delicious offering of locally harvested foods prepared and served by the Trailing Yew Hotel.