For over a decade, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens has opened its doors and hosted Mainers at no cost to them during Maine Days. This year, 10,000 free tickets will be released on Monday, May 12, for the three-day event taking place on May 30, 31, and June 1. Guests can enjoy the usual botanical delights, miles of hiking trails, the ever-popular giant trolls, and this year, a special spring edition of The Caterpillar Lab—a living caterpillar exhibit.

"This weekend is one of my favorites of the year. I love seeing our Maine neighbors coming out in droves to enjoy their botanical garden," shared Gretchen Ostherr, President & CEO. "The gardens are already looking beautiful; by late May, folks will be in for a treat."

Tickets will be available online at MaineGardens.org starting at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 12, on a first-come, first-served basis, and limited to eight per household. There will be a small number of tickets for sale each day for non-Mainers who visit the peninsula. Mainers looking for free tickets should select “Maine Day” tickets on the Gardens calendar. Please note that a valid Maine ID will be required for entry. Free Maine Days tickets are not eligible for exchange or refund. The Gardens will be open rain or shine. Carpool with another Maine family and friends and make a day of it on the Boothbay peninsula, exploring local shops, restaurants, and galleries.