PORTLAND, Maine — The Portland Symphony Orchestra is returning after a one-year hiatus to the Eastern Promenade for Maine's largest Independence Day celebration.
Brian Corcoran, CEO of the event organizer, tells the Portland Press Herald that the goal is to make "Portland Pops" a long-term sustainable event by combining traditional corporate sponsorships with expanded ticket sales and a fundraising gala.
The PSO performed on the Eastern Prom as part of the Stars and Stripes Spectacular from 2010 to 2017. But the musicians took last year off because organizers couldn't afford the $30,000 fee.
The event with music, fireworks and street vendors draws about 50,000 people to the Eastern Promenade. That doesn't include others who watch from boats and other nearby locations.
