Thousands have begun to descend upon Rockland for the annual Lobster Fest. It's one of the state's biggest, most anticipated events (The Today Show even said it was one of the five best summer family festivals). Here is a guide to some of the upcoming activities.

Full Calendar of Events

Wednesday Aug. 1

Noon: Lobster serving begins (everyday, but 11 am every other day)

2 pm: Live music on Main stage by Swing Shift, a 7-piece band playing music from every decade.

3–5 pm: The Bob Band. All Dylan, but no Bob.

8 pm: 2012 Sea Goddess Coronation. Music accompanies the crowning of this year's sea goddess. 


Thursday Aug. 2

7 – 10 am: All you can eat pancake breakfast (everyday).

10 am – 3 pm: The Tricskter Fox is back, strolling the grounds, causing hijinks everywhere.

10 am – 2 pm: Learn about the evolution of lobsters at the Maine Experience Tent.

2 – 10 pm: Music includes the Pete Kilpatrick Band, Lyle Divinksy Band, Don Campbell Band, and Jonathan Edwards.

3 pm: Speed knitting competition!


Friday Aug. 3

Noon: Carnival Bracelet Day

1 pm: Surival suit demonstration by the Coast Gaurd at the Maine Experience Tent.

1: 30 – 10 pm: Music includes The Veayo Twins, Freeze Frame, Amy Allen and Randy Houser


Saturday Aug. 4

10 am: The Big Parade. One of the festivals major events features a parade down Main Street with the 2012 Sea Goddess, the Sea Princesses, floats, marching bands, and everything you could want in a parade.

1 – 3 pm: Book signing with Down East authors Jeff Pert (Cartoons from Maine) and Virginia M. Wright (The Maine Lobster Book) at Planet Toys

1: 30 pm: Blindfold Rowboat Race!

1:30 – 10 pm: Music includes Big 'Ole Dirty Bucket, Playin' Possum, Steelin' Thunder, Mallett Bros, and .38 Special.


Sunday Aug. 5 (free admission day)

9 – 10 am: Children's Parade.

11:30 am: Children's Cod Fish Carry.

2 – 4 pm, The Great International Lobster Crate Race. Watch contestants run across lobster crates without falling into the Rockland Harbor.