Bangor hosts several special events throughout the year including a highly celebrated car show as well as stage productions throughout the city. Of special note is Bangor's American Folk Festival in August. This event is one of the largest venues for new and legendary folk music talent throughout the world. For details, visit the folk festival's website at: http://www.americanfolkfestival.com/.
Bangor's rich history is deeply connected to Maine's lumber and fishing industries which thrived well into the first-half of the 20th century. Vast stretches of forest and numerous inland waterways surrounding Bangor helped the city to become a center of commerce for natural resources. Bangor-made furniture soon became a mainstay of America's growing furniture industries well into the 20th century.
Bangor has also played a prominent role in American history. Like Augusta, Bangor served as both a trading post and defensive fortification against attacks from French Canadian forces as well as raids by Native American warriors during the Colonial era. During the Civil War, the majority of Maine's recruits for the Union army came from the Bangor area. Today, Bangor has taken a prominent place as testing ground for research and technological advancements emerging from the University of Maine's main campus at Orono. Similarly, UMaine's artistic and cultural influence have found a welcome home in Bangor.