Maine Lobster Festival: 6 Things to Know Before You Go

Crack the claws and grab the butter — the Maine Lobster Festival is back!

One of Maine's biggest summer traditions returns to Rockland this July for five days of food, fun and fresh lobster.

Now celebrating its 79th year, the Maine Lobster Festival takes over Rockland's waterfront from July 29 through August 2nd, bringing thousands of visitors together for one of the state's most beloved events.

Festivalgoers can enjoy free admission, fresh Maine lobster, live entertainment, beer tents, fireworks, a two-day Steins & Vines tasting event, an expanded children's area and plenty of family-friendly activities.

What began in 1947 as an effort to boost Midcoast Maine communities has grown into an internationally recognized celebration of Maine's seafood industry and coastal culture. Today, the festival attracts visitors from across the country and around the world.

The festival is held at Harbor Park in downtown Rockland and is easy to access. Free parking is available at South Elementary School and Oceanside High School, with complimentary shuttle buses running to and from the festival grounds approximately every 30 minutes.

For nearly eight decades, the Maine Lobster Festival has been a staple of summer in Maine, and this year's celebration promises to be bigger than ever.

Before you head to Rockland, here are six things to know about the 2026 Maine Lobster Festival.