The 41st Annual Essex ClamFest and Clam Chowder Competition brings food, music, and community to Shepard Memorial Park
The Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce invites the community to the 41st Annual Essex ClamFest and Arts & Crafts Festival on Saturday, October 24, from 11 AM to 4 PM at Shepard Memorial Park. Admission is free.
This beloved fall tradition will feature more than 60 artisans, vendors, and non-profit booths, along with a K-9 demonstration by the Massachusetts State Police & Essex Police. Kids’ activities include a visit from the Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team and face painting by Miss Wendy. Live music will be performed by Peter Hoare & the Essex Junction and Brick House. Visitors can enjoy food from Googan’s Galley, The Lunch Lady, and Woodman’s on Wheels, as well as beer from Rockport Brewing Company.
The Clam Chowder Competition
The ever-popular Clam Chowder Competition returns to the site of the former tennis courts from 12 PM to ~1 PM, or while supplies last. Admission to the tasting area is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 10. Approximately 1,000 people are expected to sample the best of the best, and each taster will vote for a favorite in the People’s Choice Award. First, second, and third places will be recognized.
This year’s nine competitors are: 35 Beach (Manchester), Addison Gilbert Hospital/Sodexo (Gloucester), Castle Manor Inn (Gloucester), CK Pearl (Essex), Machaca Taco & Tequila Bar (Gloucester), The Burn Tavern (Gloucester), The Farm Bar & Grille (Essex), The James Restaurant (Essex), and Woodman’s of Essex (Essex)
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Essex ClamFest is produced by the Essex Division of the Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce. We gratefully acknowledge the sponsors who make this year’s event possible:
- Presenting Sponsor: BankGloucester
- Community Sponsors: 128 Plumbing & Heating, Applied Materials, Beacon Bank, LeafFilter Gutter Protection, and Rite Window by Renuity
- Supporting Sponsor: Manchester-Essex Rotary Club
- Shuttle Sponsor: Beauposrt Limousine/Beauport Ambulance
We also thank the following businesses and organizations for their in-kind support: the Mass Mudders for parking assistance, Beauport Limousine for shuttle service, Hiltz Waste Disposal for trash services, and Essex Radio & TV for sound at the chowder competition.
Rain Location: In the event of rain, the festival will be held at Essex Elementary School on the same date and times.
For more information including a list of vendors, please visit: https://bit.ly/EssexClamFest
