Kennebunk Bicentennial celebrations, sidelined due to the pandemic a year ago, will go on virtually this year, organizers say. Dan King photo

KENNEBUNK – Sidelined a year ago by the coronavirus pandemic, those organizing Kennebunk’s Bicentennial celebration had planned to host the live event this June.

And the celebration will go on this year – but by video, given that the pandemic continues to be a factor in everyday life, according to a municipal news release.

Kennebunk was settled in the mid-1600s, and incorporated on June 24, 1820 – the same year as the state of Maine.

According to the release, there are plans to video the opening presentation featuring town officials and community and business members. The video will include an archaeological presentation on the findings at Kennebunk’s historic African American community site, a Museum in the Streets tour with actors in period costume and more.

Plans include a militia presentation exploring life in colonial America, bicentennial quilt display, 2020 time capsule display and dedication, colonial music event with dinner and signature-cocktail pickup from local restaurants and bicentennial booklet and souvenir distribution.

Town Clerk Merton Brown, an ex officio member of the committee, said an archaeological survey is also planned to take place this year. Work on the video presentations is expected to begin in March.

He said souvenir glasses, mugs and a special bicentennial coin are available for purchase at the town clerk’s office.