It Was A Real Nice LobsterFest

In just a dozen years, LobsterFest has become one of the biggest, most beloved and fun parties in town.

Yesterday, 1,500 folks of all ages celebrated at Compo Beach.

They ate lobster and steak (plus a lot more). They drank beer and soda. They danced to a great band (Silver Steel). Their kids climbed on a fire truck, went inside an ambulance, blew giant bubbles, and had all the kind of fun we remember from our childhoods.

Let’s dance!

And — thanks to the year-round work of the Westport Rotary Club, and volunteers from many other town groups — LobsterFest raised hundreds of thousands of dollars, for dozens of good causes.

Richard Epstein, Rick “Mr. Lobster” Benson and former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe took in the festivities.

In a few months, the Rotarians will distribute large grants, to all those groups.

It’s a feel-good ceremony. Those funds will — literally — change lives.

But none of it would be possible with everyone who made LobsterFest happen yesterday.

Former 2nd Selectwoman Betty Lou Cummings, and her son Matt. He’s the branch manager of M&T Bank — one of LobsterFest’s many volunteer providers.

And all those who enjoyed themselves, at one of the best Westport days of the year.

PS: Tickets for LobsterFest ’25 go one sale next summer. As usual, they’ll sell out in minutes.

Before …

… and after.

Friends met old friends — and others made new ones.

Friends like these 2 Vivis — Wolf and Swersky — hung out too. (Photo/Jim Wolf)

We’re not sure why the lost & found was located at the Wine Wall. But it worked.

The band played everything from A (Abba) to Z (Led Zeppelin). And they got folks of all ages dancing.

Kids enjoyed face painting …

… and pin making …

… and fire truck sitting.

RTM members at an informal get-together.

There was a great emphasis on sustainability …

… and teen volunteers worked hard sorting the recyclables.

See you next year! (All photos/Dan Woog unless otherwise noted)