44th Annual Yarmouth Clam Festival an Enormous Success
Excellent Weather Inspired an Extra-Strong Showing
The Yarmouth Clam Festival, one of Maine’s most popular summer events, has drawn to a close, after a hugely successful weekend.
"We couldn’t have dreamed of a better Festival," said Director Holly Guy. "Mother Nature blessed the event with near-perfect weather, and we had a fantastic turnout."
Phil Harriman, who has attended every Clam Festival, said, “Friday was the strongest start to the Festival I’ve seen in recent memory. People came into town early and ate heartily. I think the food booths will tell you that they did exceptionally well.”
Sam Eddy, of the Yarmouth Ski Club, said, “We did very well. I don’t think the red tide scare affected our sales at all. We had three solid days, and we sold all our clams.”'
A full slate of traditional events included the parade, the Maine State Clam-Shucking Contests, running races for kids and adults, a canoe and kayak race, a professional bike race, fireworks, a firefighters’ muster, a street dance, and the diaper derby. All events attracted enthusiastic crowds that included first-time as well as long-time Festival-goers and those from near and far away.
“The Fireman’s Muster put on a uniquely entertaining program with new, dramatic contests,” said Harriman. “The block party Saturday night was fantastic, and the fireworks were the best I’ve ever seen. I think many people left thinking that Yarmouth is a pretty special place.”
Lee Stearns, the Festival’s Entertainment Director, said, “The shows all went so smoothly and got a great response. Some of our Saturday night performers, Ryan Woodbury and Nadia, had a hard time getting off stage, because audiences demanded repeated encores.”
“It was not only a large but also an enthusiastic turnout. We never know exact attendance figures, because we don’t charge admission to the Festival, but whatever they were, the Festival was a huge success,” said Guy. “The positive energy and community spirit that builds up through preparing for and then enjoying the event was heightened by everyone feeling so joyful that the weather was beautiful and so many people were there to enjoy the party."
Guy expressed her appreciation for all those who play a part in making the Festival happen smoothly and safely, "So many good people work so hard to make something really special happen — thousands of volunteers; dozens of businesses, nonprofit organizations, and entertainers; the Town of Yarmouth, and of course everyone who comes to enjoy the event."
Next year’s Yarmouth Clam Festival will take place July 16, 17, and 18, 2010. As always, it begins the third Friday in July.
The Yarmouth Clam Festival has been Maine’s favorite summer event for 44 years. Admission to Clam Festival is free. Proceeds from food and beverage sales help support nonprofit groups in Yarmouth.
