Lobster is an integral part of Maine culture, and there aren’t too many who would argue that you can get a better lobster dish anywhere else. That is why shellfish fans all over the world take pilgrimages to our state just to try some out.
If you’re one of those shellfish fans, then you should know that the best time of year to make your pilgrimage is the first weekend of August when the Maine Lobster Festival is held at Harbor Park in Rockland. There’s no better way to soak up the seafood culture and try some of the most fantastic lobster you’ve ever had while also enjoying many other fun activities that are great for the whole family.
Read on to learn all you need to know about this ultimate celebration of Maine lobster.
What Makes Maine Lobster Special?
Maine lobster is unique because of its habitat. The cold, mineral-rich waters in the Gulf of Maine provide the perfect conditions for lobster to flourish, resulting in a vast quantity of unusually large lobsters that are sweeter and more flavorful than any you can find elsewhere.
When Is the Maine Lobster Festival?
The Maine Lobster Festival is held every year on the first full weekend in August. In 2023, that means Wednesday, August 2, to Sunday, August 6. Hours of the festival vary by day, so check the below schedule before you go.
- Wed: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Thu/Fri/Sat: 8:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m.
- Sun: 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Where Is the Maine Lobster Festival?
The Maine Lobster Festival is held at Harbor Park at 1 Pleasant Street in Rockland.
There will be a shuttle to take you from the free parking site at South Elementary School on 30 Broadway to the festival. Buses come every 15-20 minutes while the festival is underway.
Events at Maine Lobster Festival
There are so many events at the Maine Lobster Festival that it’s hard to name them all. Here are just a few of the things you can expect from your visit.
An Amazing Menu
The Lobster Festival has an Eating Tent where you can try out an array of lobster dishes and other items while enjoying amazing views of tranquil Penobscot Bay.
Seafood Cooking Contest
Whether you’re a killer cook or just a big fan of seafood and want to try some of Maine’s best recipes, there’s a spot for you at the Seafood Cooking Contest on Friday, August 4. The contest starts at 9 a.m. Judging starts at 11:30 a.m.
The Big Parade
No annual celebration is complete without a parade. This is the most popular event of them all at the Maine Lobster Festival. The parade is held on Main Street and begins at 10 a.m. on August 5.
Live Music
Enjoy live entertainment all weekend long. Keep an eye on the Maine Lobster Festival website for schedule updates.
Children’s Events
There will be all kinds of kid-friendly events to enjoy, including the Children’s Parade, a lobster eating contest, a Little Lobster Diaper Derby, and more.
Enjoy One of Maine’s Best Festivals!
Maine holds a number of fun festivals every year, but not many of them are as entertaining or as representative of this beautiful state as the Maine Lobster Festival. If you’re a seafood fan, this is one you can’t miss.
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