Kennbunkport Festival returns despite controversy

KENNEBUNKPORT (WGME) – The annual Kennebunkport Festival is back on despite controversy surrounding its typical host company.

Each year, the Kennebunkport Festival solidifies summer and tourism season.

Typically, the Maine Media Collective publishing company hosts the event, but amid allegations of sexual harassment against its former CEO, the company pulled the plug, but in this community, the show must go on.

Emily McConnell, alongside community members and local businesses rallied to put the week-long festival together.

Monday night, dozens showed up at the Striper Waterside Restaurant and inn to support the first event.

“The fact that its continuing under new management says a lot about how important it is to the community,” McConnell said.

Organizers say the controversy surrounding sexual harassment allegations may have left a bad taste in the mouth of patrons, but funds from Monday night's event go directly toward feeding less fortunate children.

Full Plates Full Potential is one of festival’s beneficiaries.

The founder says while supporters enjoy the festival's food, they're providing just that to children.