Community Events
National Drinking Water Week Events
Since 1988, the drinking water community has come together to recognize Drinking Water Week—a national celebration of the vital role clean, safe drinking water plays in our daily lives.
At Portland Water District, we’re proud to bring that celebration to our community each year by hosting a series of free, family-friendly events that highlight the journey of your water—from source to tap.
This year, join the celebration with:
Water Walk & Talk
May 5th, 2026 | 1:30 p.m.
Join us for a Water Walk & Talk along one of the most important landscapes in our region. This roughly 3-mile, out-and-back trail features gentle inclines and rewards participants with a scenic view of Sebago Lake—our community’s drinking water source.
Along the way, Portland Water District staff will share how the surrounding forests act as a natural filtration system, helping deliver clean, high-quality water to the lake. Participants will also learn about PWD’s forest management goals and the importance of protection zones around Lower Bay in safeguarding water quality for generations to come.
This walk is a great opportunity to connect with nature, learn more about where your water comes from, and see firsthand how thoughtful land stewardship protects this vital resource.
Sebago Lake Water Treatment Facility Tour
May 6th & 13th, 2026 | 10 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.
Tour the largest water treatment facility in the state, the Sebago Lake Water Treatment Facility, where water is produced for 1/6 of Maine’s population. At Portland Water District, we’re not just treating water—we’re perfecting it. Every day, using a blend of ozone, ultraviolet light, and chloramine disinfection, we treat, test, and deliver 22 million gallons of clean, fresh drinking water to consumers.
During your tour, you’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at our laboratory, where our scientists explain how they test and ensure the quality of your water. This is an excellent opportunity to discover how our innovative processes keep your water crystal clear and healthy.
Disclaimer: Please be advised that this tour can take up to an hour and a half and involves approximately 0.6 miles of walking, including 55 stairs. It may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility.
Explore On Your Own
Did you know you can visit the Sebago Lake Land Reserve year-round?
Enjoy a peaceful walk on one of the many trails using our trail map available here:
It’s your chance to experience firsthand the forest that protects the source of your drinking water.
Clean Water Week Events
The first full week of June is Clean Water Week in Maine. Established in 1983, Clean Water Week raises awareness of the improvements made in the quality of Maine’s waterways. Wastewater treatment facilities have significantly impacted the quality of our waterways since the passage of the Clean Water Act in 1972.
At Portland Water District, we’re proud to bring that celebration to our community each year by hosting a series of engaging, behind-the-scenes events that highlight the journey of water after it goes down the drain—and the dedicated work that returns it safely to the environment.
This year, join the celebration with:
East End Wastewater Treatment Facility Tour
June 10th & 17th, 2026 | 10 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.
We invite you to take a tour of the largest wastewater treatment facility in Maine and learn more about the important role wastewater treatment plays in preserving our waterways.
Please note that tours can take up to an hour and a half and involve walking outside and climbing stairs.
Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong Screening
June 13th, 2026 | 12:30 p.m.
What really happens after the water goes down the drain?
Filmed over two years at our East End Wastewater Treatment Facility, Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong takes you inside the often unseen world of wastewater—highlighting the people and systems working around the clock to protect public health and our environment.
Stay tuned for more event details.
Questions?
Contact Kaitlin Tibbets, Community Outreach Specialist