Top New England Events
New England Events attract hundreds of thousands annually to attend Country Fairs, Festivals, Celebrations, and Annual Traditions.
Explore the most popular events in New England below. To feature your New England Event, Submit Your Event to New England Living.
Maine Lobster Festival Rockland ME Event
ALL ABOUT THE FAMOUS MAINE LOBSTER FESTIVAL
The Maine Lobster Festival is more than just a celebration of seafood — it’s a proud tradition, a coastal carnival, and one of New England’s most iconic summer events. Every year in early August, thousands of lobster lovers flock to the picturesque harbor town of Rockland, Maine, for five glorious days of shellfish, sea breezes, and small-town charm. With a view of the sparkling Penobscot Bay and the unmistakable aroma of fresh lobster in the air, this festival is as close to classic coastal Maine as you can get.
Whether you’re a first-timer curious about cracking your first claw or a seasoned festival-goer who knows the best spots to catch the parade, the Maine Lobster Festival offers something for everyone. It’s a celebration of Maine’s heritage, its hardworking lobstermen and women, and, of course, the world-famous crustacean that has become synonymous with the Pine Tree State.
A Brief History of the Maine Lobster Festival
The Maine Lobster Festival began back in 1947, as a way to revive midcoast Maine communities after the long grind of World War II. The idea was simple: throw a party for locals and visitors alike, centered around the region’s most iconic and abundant resource — the lobster. The original event, held in Camden, was called the “Marine Festival,” but within a few years, the focus had shifted to lobster, and the event moved down the coast to Rockland, which has remained its permanent home ever since.
Back in those early days, you could get a complete lobster dinner for just a dollar. Volunteers cooked up the crustaceans in enormous outdoor pots over roaring fires, and the whole town seemed to show up. Over time, the festival grew from a small-town gathering into one of New England’s signature summer celebrations, attracting visitors from across the country and even overseas.
Today, the Maine Lobster Festival is organized and staffed almost entirely by local volunteers. It’s a nonprofit event, with proceeds going back into the community to support scholarships, charities, and regional service organizations. That community spirit — combined with some of the freshest seafood on the planet — is what keeps people coming back year after year.
What to Expect at the Maine Lobster Festival
Let’s start with the obvious: lobster. And lots of it. You’ll see lobster rolls, lobster mac and cheese, lobster bisque, lobster tails, lobster on a stick — and of course, the classic whole steamed Maine lobster served with drawn butter and corn on the cob. There’s a giant open-air Lobster Pavilion where volunteers cook up thousands of pounds of lobster every day, and lines form early for the famous seafood feast.
But there’s more to this event than just what’s on the plate. The festival is a full-blown celebration, complete with a lively parade, local craft vendors, live music on the main stage, cooking contests, and a sea goddess coronation that’s been a tradition since the 1940s. There’s even a fun and quirky Great International Lobster Crate Race, where contestants attempt to run across a floating line of lobster crates tied together in the harbor. It’s slippery, hilarious, and pure Maine.
Kids will love the amusement rides and games on the festival grounds, and grownups can browse handmade goods in the craft tent or visit the marine education exhibits to learn more about Maine’s coastal ecosystem. There are cooking demonstrations, art shows, and plenty of places to sit by the water and just soak it all in.
One of the best parts of the festival is the view. The event takes place in Rockland’s Harbor Park, a grassy, sea-swept spot right on the edge of the bay. Lobster boats bob on the water, seagulls circle overhead, and the salty tang of the Atlantic is always in the air. There are few places more scenic to enjoy a freshly cracked lobster claw.
When and Where
The Maine Lobster Festival is typically held during the first weekend of August and runs from Wednesday through Sunday. The location is Rockland Harbor Park, located on Main Street, right by the waterfront in downtown Rockland. Admission to the festival grounds is free for most of the week, though there may be small fees for certain events or entertainment acts.
Parking can get crowded, so plan to arrive early or use one of the local shuttles. If you’re staying nearby, you can often walk to the festival — one of the perks of booking a local inn or downtown hotel.
Map of Rockland, Maine
Rockland, Maine — The Festival’s Charming Home
If you’ve never been to Rockland, the festival is the perfect excuse to discover one of Maine’s most endearing coastal towns. With its red brick downtown, working harbor, and artsy vibe, Rockland offers a true taste of Down East life. It’s also home to the Farnsworth Art Museum, which features works from the Wyeth family and other Maine-inspired artists, as well as the Maine Lighthouse Museum, just steps from the festival.
The walkable downtown area is full of coffee shops, bookstores, galleries, and seafood restaurants that range from down-home diners to upscale bistros. It’s easy to spend a few extra days exploring this beautiful corner of the Maine coast.
Where to Stay Near the Maine Lobster Festival
With thousands of visitors pouring in for the festival each year, accommodations in Rockland and nearby towns fill up quickly. Luckily, midcoast Maine offers a wide range of places to stay — from historic inns and cozy bed-and-breakfasts to charming seaside cottages and contemporary hotels.
Samoset Resort, Rockport
Just a few minutes from downtown Rockland, the Samoset Resort is a full-service luxury destination perched on the edge of Penobscot Bay. With golf, a spa, fine dining, and breathtaking ocean views, it’s the kind of place where you can relax in style after a long day of lobster eating.
250 Main Hotel, Rockland<br ” />A chic boutique hotel right in the heart of Rockland’s art district, 250 Main combines modern design with warm hospitality. Rooms have water views, and the rooftop deck is the perfect place to enjoy a sunset cocktail.
Trade Winds Inn, Rockland
Located directly across from the harbor and festival grounds, the Trade Winds Inn is all about location. Comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and easy access to downtown shops and restaurants make it a practical and popular choice for festival-goers.
Berry Manor Inn, Rockland
If you love the idea of staying in a historic Victorian mansion, the Berry Manor Inn delivers charm and elegance in spades. Famous for its homemade pies and romantic atmosphere, this inn is perfect for couples or anyone seeking a more refined getaway.
Glen Cove Inn & Suites, Rockport
Just north of Rockland, Glen Cove offers a peaceful retreat with a swimming pool, gardens, and clean, comfy rooms. It’s an affordable, family-friendly option with easy access to the festival and area attractions.
The Lindsey Hotel, Rockland
This small, stylish hotel is tucked into a quiet corner of downtown and offers a blend of 19th-century architecture and contemporary design. It’s a short stroll to the festival grounds, and a favorite for guests who appreciate boutique charm.
More Than Lobster — Explore Midcoast Maine
While the Maine Lobster Festival is the main event, there’s plenty more to see and do in the region. Take a day trip to nearby Camden, where you can hike Mount Battie for panoramic views of the harbor, or sail on a historic windjammer schooner. Head south to Owls Head for a visit to the iconic Owls Head Lighthouse, or north to Belfast for more coastal charm and shopping.
Art lovers will enjoy the Farnsworth Museum and Center for Maine Contemporary Art in Rockland, while nature enthusiasts can hop on a ferry to Vinalhaven or North Haven, two rugged islands just offshore.
The entire midcoast region is dotted with lobster shacks, farm stands, scenic pullouts, and secret coves waiting to be discovered. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy the rhythm of life by the sea. Maine Living offers additional Maine Vacation Attractions.
Tips for Enjoying the Festival Like a Local
Bring cash. While many vendors now accept cards, having cash on hand can speed up transactions and help you avoid ATM lines.
Dress for the weather. Maine can be sunny one minute and foggy the next. Bring layers, sunscreen, a hat, and maybe even a light rain jacket just in case.
Arrive early. The lines for lobster get longer as the day goes on. If you want to beat the rush, come early and eat lunch with a view of the harbor.
Stay hydrated. August in Maine can be surprisingly warm, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Drink plenty of water between lobster rolls.
Don’t skip the crate race. Even if you’re not brave enough to try it, watching the Great International Lobster Crate Race is one of the most entertaining parts of the weekend.
Talk to the locals. From the volunteers dishing out lobster to the folks selling handmade soaps and crafts, the festival is full of Mainers who are proud of their home and happy to share their stories.
A Festival for the Future
Over the years, the Maine Lobster Festival has adapted to changing times while keeping its heart firmly rooted in tradition. Sustainability, education, and community involvement are central to the event’s mission. Organizers work closely with local fisheries, schools, and nonprofits to ensure that the festival remains a positive force for the region.
And while the star of the show remains the lobster, the festival is really about celebrating everything that makes Maine special: hardworking people, coastal heritage, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality.
Plan Your Maine Visit
Planning a trip to the Maine Lobster Festival is easier than ever. Start by checking the official festival website for up-to-date schedules, parking tips, volunteer opportunities, and food offerings. Book your accommodations well in advance, especially if you’re planning to stay right in Rockland or nearby Camden. Many places sell out months ahead of the event.
Bring your appetite, your camera, and your sense of fun — because once you experience the magic of a warm summer day in Rockland, a lobster roll in hand and the scent of saltwater in the air, you’ll understand why this is one of New England’s favorite summer traditions.
For more information about visiting Maine and planning your coastal New England adventure, bookmark MELiving.com — your trusted travel companion for discovering the best of the Pine Tree State.
The Maine Lobster Festival is proudly featured as a Top Annual New England Event by New England Living Magazine.