Clam Fest No. 57

In July, Steamer was back in town for the one and only annual Clam Festival. This year I was able to get involved more with making the Clam Fest happen. I helped paint the food booths, fry clams, grill burgers, register kids for the fun run, and more. Through volunteering, I got to talk to so many interesting and incredible people, especially as I helped set up the art booths. One man told me how he used to work in construction, and started making art out of wood when he retired. He kept working on these projects and getting better and better at it. The pieces he was selling at his booth were so beautiful and abstract, and each one was completely different from the next.

The art that people create and sell at the Clam Fest always blows me away. Ornaments, photography, candles, pottery, and more. Plus, each artist has a unique story, and they are always willing to tell you about it if you ask. This year I didn’t get to watch the parade but I heard it was vibrant, and filled with familiar faces, local businesses, and exciting acts. I did, however, go to the fair. I enjoyed a brown sugar bubble tea and walked around with a friend, watching people laugh, scream, become very dizzy, win games, and buy all sorts of food from fried Oreos to chicken wings. I have never enjoyed rides much, so I didn’t buy a bracelet for bracelet night, but just watching everything occur was thrilling enough for me.

I also ran the Pat’s Five Miler race this year. I loved seeing people I knew from town all running together and having the best time. The finish was so rewarding, complete with free bagels and much-appreciated bottled water. Overall, the 57th Clam Fest was a blast. I was so glad to volunteer this year and give back to the event that is a part of so many fun memories from when I was little. I remember watching the Clam Fest appear like magic: The Ferris wheel, the fair, the parade, the booths. The Clam Fest is a different experience when you’re older. Maybe it’s because you end up getting more involved, or just because you have a better understanding of how things work. Somehow it doesn’t feel as magical, but it is still an experience to enjoy. This July, I found that being a part of a community that’s working hard to create something as big as the Clam Fest can feel just as exciting as watching it magically appear as a little kid.