Every summer, the Yarmouth Clam Festival draws seafood lovers and families alike to the charming coastal town of Yarmouth, Maine. In 2025, this beloved community event keeps its tradition alive from July 18 to 20, offering irresistible clam chowder, lobster rolls, lively music performances, and a variety of outdoor activities—all set against the backdrop of local vendors and food trucks. Navigating the festival’s parking and planning your must-try foods will make your visit unforgettable.
Essential Dates and Schedule for the 2025 Yarmouth Clam Festival
The Yarmouth Clam Festival 2025 runs from Friday, July 18th to Sunday, July 20th, boasting an action-packed weekend filled with entertainment and culinary delights. Below is a snapshot of key events:
- 🍴 Friday, July 18th: Pancake Breakfasts start at 7:00 am, with activities like the Pat’s Pizza Clam Festival Classic road race beginning at 8:00 am.
- 🎶 Live music performances across multiple stages from 11:30 am to 10:30 pm.
- 🍽️ Maine State Clam Shucking Contest at 11:00 am on Saturday, featuring celebrity and amateur heats.
- 🎆 Fireworks display at 9:00 pm Saturday evening, best viewed near the Memorial Green or Library.
- 🏃 Family-friendly fun run events and craft shows throughout the weekend.
With over 100,000 visitors annually, the festival offers nonstop activities suitable for all ages.
Parking Tips and Shuttle Services to Ease Your Festival Visit
Parking can get hectic when the festival’s in full swing, but organizers have you covered with options to ease access:
- 🅿️ Park-and-Ride Service: Utilize the Free Public Shuttle by parking at I-295’s Yarmouth Exit 15 Park-N-Ride lot. Buses run from 9:00 am to 10:30 pm Friday and Saturday, and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Sunday.
- 🚫 Note some shuttle service pauses occur during Friday 5-7 pm and slower bus times during heavy traffic on Friday 8-10:30 pm and Saturday 11 am-1 pm.
- 🚗 Local Parking is available but fills quickly—arrive early to secure a spot near Main Street and Memorial Green where most events unfold.
Planning ahead with these transportation options ensures you spend more time sampling seafood than circling for parking.
Must-Try Foods: Savoring the Best of Yarmouth’s Seafood Delights
No trip to the Yarmouth Clam Festival is complete without indulging in the local culinary highlights. The food scene centers on fresh seafood prepared by passionate local vendors and food trucks:
- 🦪 Clam Chowder: Creamy, hearty, and loaded with fresh clams – the festival’s signature dish is a can’t-miss comfort food.
- 🦞 Lobster Rolls: Served buttery and hot or cold with mayo, these rolls represent coastal Maine cuisine at its best.
- 🍟 Sides like crispy fries and corn on the cob complement seafood treats perfectly.
- 🍧 Sweet remedies from blueberry pies to homemade ice cream offer a refreshing finish.
For in-depth dining options off-site or after the festival, check out the top 12 local restaurants in Yarmouth where authentic coastal flavors continue to shine.
Outdoor Activities and Live Music: More Than Just Food
The festival balances its culinary draw with family-friendly outdoor activities and entertainment that celebrate the lively spirit of Yarmouth’s community:
- 🎡 Carnival rides and amusements by Smokey’s Greater Shows at Bennett Field offer fun for kids and adults.
- 🎤 Multiple music stages feature over 18 hours of local and regional bands performing genres from rock to barbershop harmony.
- 🐕 K9 demonstrations by Yarmouth Police highlight community engagement while kids enjoy running events and games.
- 🎨 Fine Art and Craft Show on the North Yarmouth Academy Lawn presents unique handmade goods and scenic coastal views.
Discover one-day itineraries that pair festival fun with coastal trails and cute shops on Yarmouth’s local blog to extend your visit beyond the clam feast.
Watch highlights from last year’s festival to get a taste of the festivities you can expect in 2025.
See how the famous clam chowder is crafted, a highlight for visitors craving an authentic Maine seafood experience.
| Event ⏰ | Location 📍 | Details 🍽️ / 🎪 |
|---|---|---|
| Friday Pancake Breakfast | First Parish Church; Food Circle | Hearty breakfast to kick off your festival day |
| Maine Clam Shucking Contest | Memorial Green Stage | Celebrity & amateur heats, with prizes |
| Carnival Rides | Bennett Field | Fun for all ages courtesy of Smokey’s Shows |
| Fireworks Show | Memorial Green / Behind Library | Nighttime spectacular by PDK Pyro |
Curious Questions Answered about the Yarmouth Clam Festival
What are the exact dates for the Yarmouth Clam Festival 2025?
The festival runs from July 18 to July 20, 2025.
Where can I park, and is there shuttle service?
Free shuttle buses run from the I-295 Yarmouth Exit 15 Park-N-Ride lot during festival hours, with some service pauses for traffic. Local parking near Main Street is limited but available.
Which foods should I absolutely try at the festival?
Don’t miss the clam chowder and lobster rolls, both iconic Maine seafood dishes, alongside tasty sides and desserts from local vendors and food trucks.
Is the Yarmouth Clam Festival family-friendly?
Yes, the event includes carnival rides, fun runs, K9 demos, and craft shows—perfect for visitors of all ages.
How can I explore Yarmouth beyond the festival?
Explore coastal trails, craft coffee shops, and charming local stores to extend your visit. The Yarmouth Villages website offers great guides for that.
