Camden Windjammer Festival-Maine

By Sheeba Muskaan

From the various events held in MidCoast Maine, one of the best to experience would be the Camden Windjammer Festival that takes place on the Labour Day weekend when the city celebrates this festival of the sailing vessels. This exciting festival is great for people of all ages, locals and other visitors. The festival focuses on gathering sailing ships which is the largest, globally and organizes fun and eventful activities. This is mostly held at the Harbor Park near Camden Public Library.

Usually the event starts off with a parade of all the sailing ships, windjammers and schooners followed by a narration of each ships history, something a tourist will enjoy! The welcome ceremony for the windjammer fleet is just fascinating and beautiful. The sailing of the ships does not end until the weekend is over, people can enjoy watching this spectacular festival along with participation in their activities.

On both days of the festival one can see the displays of this heritage and are accessible as well. There is a treasure hunt that takes place as well for visitors and locals, with multiple clues, riddles and some exciting treasures to explore. One can also attend the auction of Windjammers that is held at the place along with a dinner for gastronomical experience. One can also see fireworks on the sailing vessels, a view to capture for life!

The festival will also have an array of food vendors, restaurants and a variety of stores which will be open during the festival with a vast variety for their guests. Some of the best restaurants of Camden are located at this festivals venue. The crowd can also head to their enthusiastic concert that is held at the Harbor Park. The concert is called the Ensemble Concert, is it a community with volunteers and a band from Rockland who keep the people entertained. The concert is followed by a talent show and stunning fireworks.

The festival also has a Nautical Dog Show where visitors can register online and walk the downtown area along with their little pets; it is one of the best pet-friendly things to do in Camden. The town has old ship captain’s homes, boathouses, theater and buildings that were once woolen mills. The festival is known for their famous Pancakes Breakfast too.

The lobster crate race and first fish relay are popular that involved running across a line of lobster crates without falling into water and their fish relay involves teams carrying slippery fish and tossing them into the hold of a ship. These races are loved by the people. For kids, there is an activity that allows them to create their own miniature boats for which they can win trophies.

Camden Festival goes on and on with a number of events and activities that do not end, this festival is one of a kind and cannot be missed in a lifetime.

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