The Stonington Fishermen’s Day Cod Fish Carry. Photo via the Island Fishermen’s Wives Association.

Stonington Fishermen’s Day is a great chance to get a glimpse of an authentic Maine lobstering village honoring its fishing heritage. The 2018 Stonington Fishermen’s Day will take place July 15th. As always, this coastal Maine festival is open to the public. Fishermen’s Day runs from 10am to 4pm and the schedule includes several events which are unique to Downeast Maine coastal celebrations, including a wacky row boat race and a cod fish relay race. There will also be a trap hauling demonstration where visitors can see how lobsters are caught.  The festival features many local artisans, vendors, and local seafood is always on sale.  While the date of the 2018 Stonington Fishermen’s Day has been set, the schedule is not yet finalised. I will publish the schedule once ready and, in the meantime, below is the schedule from the 2017 Stonington Fishermen’s Day.

Stonington Fishermen’s Day Schedule 2017

10:00: Gates Open

10:05: Moment of Silence

10:10: Hall of Fame Inductees

10:30: Pet Show

11:30: Watermelon Eating Contest

12:00: Wacky Row Boat Races

1:00: Trap Hauling Demonstration

2:00: Fish Face Contest

2:15: Cod Fish Relay

2:45: Tug of Towns

Visiting Stonington for Fishermen’s Day, the Maine lobster boat races or anytime in the summer or fall is a wonderful way to witness an authentic Maine lobster fishing village. Stonington brings in more lobster than any other fishing town in Maine.  The harbor is incredibly picturesque and there are a variety of restaurants and more casual lobster shacks where you can enjoy fresh Maine seafood.

To read about the dates and schedules for other great coastal festivals in Maine this summer, click here.