Private & Corporate Event Space | Portland, Maine

LET US INTRODUCE OURSELVES

At The Downtown Social, we’re more than just a Maine event venue—we’re a place where real connection happens. Designed for gathering, celebrating, and sharing great food and drinks, our venue brings people together through experiences that feel authentic, relaxed, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re hosting a private event or joining one of our community nights, we craft each moment with intention—from our chef-curated menus and licensed bar catering to the cozy, inclusive vibe that makes guests feel right at home.

We believe in events that enrich—not exhaust. Our gatherings are lively, meaningful, and end early enough for you to enjoy both the party and a good night’s rest.

Inside our historic space—featuring two floors of indoor gathering areas and a beautiful outdoor terrace—you’ll find more than just a venue. You’ll find a community hub. A flexible, welcoming atmosphere where every celebration reflects your vibe and invites others in.

Come as you are. Stay as long as you like. Let’s create something memorable—together.

A WORD FROM OUR GUESTS…

We celebrated my husband’s 60th birthday at The Downtown Social. It was the perfect setting for our themed event, The Big Lebowski. My husband was especially psyched about it because it is a place that brings him good memories from when it was the free street tavern, but now it is even cooler because it is an events space.

The owner, Courtney, was an amazing host! She made sure to make us comfortable and we didn’t have to worry about a thing! Elise, the bartender, was pumped because it was a theme she is a fan of! She went out of her way to for us, creating a customized drinks menu creating a variety of White Russians, or as the Dude would say “caucasian”. To make it even better, they had the movie going on in the background and the sound track. 

The celebration was amazing, friends and family from near  and far showed up and dressed up for the occasion, including Courtney and Elise. This was our 2nd event at this space, I also celebrated my 50th birthday there! We couldn’t have asked for a better location to celebrate our birthdays!

– Tatiana

It was a joy celebrating our annual Holiday party at the venue!! The atmosphere was perfect and the staff were helpful and welcoming. The room worked well for our Company’s needs and we were able to set up a PA and a bit of a “stage” for our various toasts and presentations. Courtney, Elise and Jordan prepared delicious hors d’oeuvres that were presented both on a buffet and “passed” throughout the evening. There was no shortage of food and the options were elegant and delectable!

– Cheers and thanks, John

Contact us today

THE TEAM AT THE DOWNTOWN SOCIAL

Founder, Event Visionary & Hospitality Maven

Courtney has been creating spaces for celebration since childhood, when she first began hosting beachside gatherings on Peaks Island. That early spark turned into a career: with over 20 years in the industry, she founded The Maine Lobsterbake Co., delivering iconic seaside catering experiences across Maine.

Her global travels inspire her fresh, inclusive approach to every event, from backyard lobster bakes to elegant cocktail receptions. Courtney’s mission is simple: make every gathering feel like a celebration of life.