MILLINOCKET – Foliage tours by air and by bus, chili and dessert cooking contests, children’s games and municipal performances will all be part of Community Magic Days on Sept. 21 and Oct. 5.

The special weekend events are planned in an effort to draw more people to Millinocket’s downtown and to provide visitors and residents alike with some fun activities, said Bruce McLean, president of the newly formed Downtown Community Development Committee.

McLean said the purpose of the new nonprofit committee is to “breathe new life” into the downtown by making it a hub of activity. “We are looking at various grant opportunities that will help downtown businesses grow and prosper,” he said.

He said the Community Magic Days events will be held every other Saturday. Events begin about 10 a.m. and usually end with a street dance.

McLean said a group of business owners wanted to provide activities for both kids and adults. He said proceeds from drawings are used to help pay some of the cost of the bands with the remaining paid by local businesses.

McLean said the events are growing and will be ongoing. He hopes the events held at the bandstand near the Veteran’s Memorial Park will include a farmers market where local growers can sell their produce.

Activities for this weekend include craft sales, children’s games at 3 p.m., a perennial plant swap from 3 to 5 p.m., and a performance by “His Boy Elroy.” West Branch Aviation will offer scenic air tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call 723-4375 or 1-866-fly-wbav.

McLean said numerous activities are planned for Oct. 5.

He said a foliage tour will depart at 10 a.m. from the bandstand with transportation provided by Bragdon’s Bus Service. For reservations call 723-7011 or 723-4443. West Branch Aviation will also offer scenic air tours.

McLean is encouraging everyone to bring their favorite chili and desserts for the chili cook-off and dessert bake-off. Entries will be judged and prizes awarded. A community yard sale, flea market and children’s games will be offered from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Kermit Cote of Millinocket, an auctioneer, will begin the community auction at 1 p.m. Oct. 5. People who wish to donate items should call 723-7011 or 723-4443.

McLean said the Oct. 5 events will end with a performance by “Wow”, a Portland band featuring Andrew Russell. McLean will provide a little “magic” of his own on the guitar.