FAQ
What is First Tracks?
First Tracks is Maine’s winter kickoff show — a weekend at Thompson’s Point in Portland celebrating everything outdoor and snowsports before the season begins. Explore 55+ brands on the exhibitor floor, catch clinics and talks at the Speaker Stage, demo gear, grab a bite at the Beer Garden, and catch a screening at the Maine Outdoor Film Festival — all in one place.
Who is organizing First Tracks?
First Tracks is organized by Maine Outdoor Brands (MOB), a Maine-based non-profit organization supporting the outdoor industry, and Thompson’s Point, Portland, Maine’s go-to waterfront event site.
When are the show dates and times?
First Tracks runs Saturday, November 7 and Sunday, November 8, 2026, at Thompson’s Point in Portland, Maine. The show floor is open 10 AM–6 PM on Saturday and 10 AM–4 PM on Sunday.
Why should I consider coming to both days?
Each day brings something different — Saturday evening features the Maine Outdoor Film Festival, and the Speaker Stage lineup changes day to day with new clinics, panels, and talks. Plus, the first 300 entrants each day get a free lift ticket to Black Mountain of Maine, so there are two chances to win one.
How can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available now at firsttrackssnowshow.com/tickets. They’ll also be available for purchase on site. Cash, credit card, and tap to pay will all be accepted.
What do I need to show to enter?
Just your ticket confirmation email — you don’t need to print it out, showing it on your phone works fine.
For 1-day passes, do I have to choose which day I’ll come?
No — you don’t need to choose your day up front. You can decide later and use your 1-day pass on whichever day works best for you.
Can I join the volunteer team for the show?
Yes! Interested volunteers can fill out this form to get started.
What brands will be on the exhibitor floor?
Over 55 outdoor brands and organizations will be set up inside Brick South, spanning gear, apparel, ski resorts, outdoor nonprofits, and more. See the full list on our Exhibitors page.
Will gear & gifts be available for purchase?
Yes — many exhibitors will have gear available to try and buy right on the show floor, on top of the hands-on demos in the Demo Zone. With the holidays right around the corner, we expect it to be a great spot to knock out some gift shopping for the outdoor lovers on your list, in addition to gearing up for winter yourself.
Do I need to register or pay to access the programming?
No separate registration is needed — the Speaker Stage and all programming at Halo at the Point are included with your First Tracks ticket. The Maine Outdoor Film Festival on Saturday evening is the one exception, since that’s a separate ticketed event.
What’s this about free lift tickets?
The first 300 show entrants on Saturday and Sunday score a FREE day pass to Black Mountain of Maine.
I heard about Free Gear Repair, how does that work?
Maine GearShare will be offering FREE gear repair with your show ticket. Simply bring your gear with you, drop it off at the Maine GearShare booth, then enjoy the show while your gear gets new life. Examples of common repairs are busted zippers or holes in a winter coat that need patching. Not sure? Bring it anyway and the Maine GearShare staff will do what they can!
Is this for all ages?
Yes — First Tracks is a family-friendly event. Kids 10 and under get in free, and the Kids Zone has activities running all weekend.
Will I need ID?
You won’t need ID to enter the show, but you will need to show valid ID if you’re purchasing alcohol at the Beer Garden (21+).
Will there be food?
Yes — food trucks and concessions will be on site throughout the show.
Will there be alcohol?
Yes — the Beer Garden, sponsored by IKON Pass, will be open throughout the show. You must be 21+ with valid ID to purchase alcohol.
What is the venue?
First Tracks takes place at Thompson’s Point in Portland, Maine. The Brand Expo and exhibitor floor are inside Brick South, and the Speaker Stage, programming, and Film Festival are next door at Halo at the Point.
Where can I park?
Event parking is available on site on a first-come, first-served basis for $10. Additional parking is available at Orthopaedic Associates on Sewall Street for $5, with shuttle service running from Sewall Street to Thompson’s Point — or it’s just a 5-minute walk if you’d rather skip the shuttle.
Can I bike there? Take public transportation?
Yes! There are many ways to get to Thompson’s Point — see their transportation page for full details.
What if I’m looking for overnight lodging?
Use this reservation link for 20% off at the following hotels, conveniently located adjacent to the show: Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Thompson’s Point and Moxy Portland Thompson’s Point.
Note that overnight parking rates will apply through the hotel.
Is the venue accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes — the venues are wheelchair accessible, and there are ADA parking spots on campus.