To celebrate Midcoast Maine’s heritage of oyster farming, the Pemaquid Oyster Festival draws people from all over for a fun festival full of oysters, entertainment, music, and more. Fans of everything oysters will relish the opportunity to enjoy the Pemaquid Oyster Company’s bounty, fresh from their farm. Located in Damariscotta, just a few miles from Boothbay Harbor, the short trip is worth it. So, what will you enjoy at the Pemaquid Oyster Festival?
As the premier vacation destination in Boothbay Harbor, a stay at Linekin Bay Resort offers the chance to reconnect with loved ones, have fun, and explore the beauty that is Midcoast Maine. Kayak Lewis Cove, cuddle up around the bonfire, stargaze, and create memories to last a lifetime. At Linekin Bay Resort, the distractions of daily life are hushed within the serenity of our cabins and lodges. For our favorite shopping, dining, and adventuring recommendations, be sure to request access to our Free Boothbay Harbor Vacation Guide!
Come Support the Pemaquid Oyster Festival
The festival is put on by the Pemaquid Oyster Company, a local oyster farm, and serves over 15,000 oysters to festival-goers. The event benefits the Edward A. Myers Marine Conservation Fund. Named after the late aquaculture pioneer and local son, Ed Myers, the fund works to preserve a “sustainable working waterfront” where the protection of the marine environment is the top priority. Over the years, the Pemaquid Oyster Festival has raised $125,000 to go toward this initiative. In addition, it doles out grants to local businesses to help support the cause of sustainable and ecologically responsible aquaculture in their own respective applications.
Oyster Festival Fun
Taking place annually on the last Sunday of September at Schooner Landing, the Pemaquid Oyster Festival is a fun time for the whole family. Start with the oyster shucking competition where contestants race to shuck the most oysters in a set amount of time. The competition sends its champion to the national oyster shucking competition in St. Mary’s, Maryland. In addition to shucking oysters, the festival serves more than 15,000 oysters to its guests in a variety of ways like oysters on the half shell, oyster stew, fried oysters, and baked oysters Rockefeller. Throughout the festival, local live music livens the atmosphere. Plus, opportunities for boat rides with The River Tripper take guests out to view nearby aquaculture on the Damariscotta River.
Event Basics
Where is it?
Schooner Landing in Damariscotta.
When is it?
The last Sunday in September.
How much does it cost?
The event is free of charge.
Just a Few Minutes Away From Linekin Bay Resort
The Pemaquid Oyster Festival and events like it are part of what make the Boothbay Harbor area such a wonderful vacation destination. Whether you’re visiting for an event like this or just seek an escape from everyday life, Linekin Bay Resort offers the cabins and lodges you need to ensure a relaxing visit to Midcoast Maine. Consider a stay at the Linwood Lodge, our entirely new lodge by the water. The two-story lodge overlooks the water and each room features a private deck with Adirondack chairs, a mini fridge, and a TV. Ready to book an escape to Boothbay Harbor? Contact us today!
