The Shediac Lobster Festival is back in full force again this year.
It kicked off Saturday night with entertainment, followed by the first annual Claw Run on Sunday.
President Pascal Haché says they’ve seen big crowds already.
“The festival ranges between 20,000 and 35,000 people. We are keeping track, so we’ll be comparing numbers at the end of the Festival to see what kind of impact we had on the local community,” said Haché.
Organizers have extended it for 2022 to include two weekends instead of just one.
“It usually runs from Wednesday to Sunday but we decided to give the people a bit more to make up for what they’ve lost during the pandemic, so we decided to go a stretch of two weekends,” said Haché.
The Shediac Lobster Festival is one of the oldest in New Brunswick, according to Haché.
“This is our 73rd edition. We are one of the oldest standing festivals in New Brunswick and we are quite proud of that. We have a long history with the Shediac community and people come from all across Canada to come and enjoy the Lobster Festival and eat some lobster,” he said.
With reduced numbers and even cancellations due to COVID-19, Haché feels it’s going to be a busy week.
“In 2020 we had to cancel, and last year we had a bit of a hybrid version. I think people are tired of being in their little shells and they need to get out and have fun and see people,” he said.
Campbell Amusement rides will run from July 6th to the 10th, and the festival also features their big tent with live music and, of course, food.
“As soon as you drive into Shediac, you’ll feel the vibe.”
More details about the Festival can be found HERE.
