09 Jun 2022 Catgeory1
Maine isn't just about stunning landscapes and delicious seafood; it's also a state that knows how to celebrate! From quirky community gatherings to grand coastal spectacles, Maine's festival scene is as diverse and charming as the state itself. Attending a festival offers a fantastic way to immerse yourself in local culture, taste regional delicacies, and create unforgettable memories.
Planning a trip to the Pine Tree State? Here's a rundown of some of the best festivals in Maine you won't want to miss!
Held every year during the first weekend of August (Wednesday through Sunday), the Maine Lobster Festival is one of the state's largest and most famous summer gatherings. The festival is built around a simple, delicious mission: celebrating the hard work of Maine's lobstermen and serving up incredible, freshly harvested lobster.
The Scale: Over five days, volunteers serve up roughly 20,000 pounds of lobster!
The Mission: The festival is run entirely by volunteers and gives back significantly to the local community, supporting charities and college scholarships.
Forget fancy dining; this is the real deal. The heart of the festival is the Giant Lobster Cooker, a massive operation that steams thousands of fresh lobsters daily.
The Meal: Your classic festival meal includes a steamed Maine lobster, melted butter, corn on the cob, and rolls. It's simple, perfect, and messy (in the best way possible).
Beyond the Steam: You can also find lobster rolls, lobster bisque, deep-fried seafood, and, for the non-seafood lovers, plenty of land-based treats like steak, burgers, and classic carnival snacks.
While the food is the star, the entertainment runs all day long. The festival grounds on the Rockland waterfront are packed with activities for all ages:
The Maine Sea Goddess Coronation: A highly anticipated annual event where a local young woman is chosen to represent the industry and the community for the coming year.
The Great International Lobster Crate Race: This is arguably the most famous and hilarious event! Contestants try to run across a string of floating lobster crates in Rockland Harbor without falling into the chilly Maine water. It's harder (and wetter) than it looks!
Big Parade: A classic Maine town parade featuring local bands, floats, and community groups.
Entertainment: Enjoy live music, craft vendors selling Maine-made goods, cooking contests, and a dedicated children's area.
Arrive Early: Especially on the weekend, the lines for the main food service can get long. Get there when the gates open to beat the rush.
Dress Comfortably: You'll be walking across a fairground, so wear comfortable shoes. Bring layers, as coastal Maine weather can change quickly!
Parking Strategy: Parking can be challenging in Rockland during the festival. Look for designated paid parking lots or shuttle services often provided by local organizations.
Embrace the Mess: Eating lobster is a hands-on experience. Don't worry about being neat—that's what the provided wet-naps are for!
The Maine Lobster Festival is a delicious, messy, and authentically American summer tradition. Plan your trip to Rockland and dive into the crustacean celebration!
