U.S. Navy, Clydesdales, lobster, music, and high steppers

Rockland’s Lobster Festival Parade celebrates high summer in style

Sat, 08/01/2015 - 2:15pm

ROCKLAND — A solid round of applause welcomed the group of naval crewmen of the USS Tortuga as they marched a crisp, dedicated line down Rockland’s Main Street, Saturday, Aug. 1. But it was the sight of the Budweiser Clydesdales about three-quarters of the way through the one hour and 45 minute parade that aroused the excitement of young and old alike.

Patient parade viewers stood and sat along the route, randomly snapping pictures, picking up candy, and enjoying the energy and creativity of participants.

Yet, when the Clydesdales came into sight, the crowd awakened in unison, creating a hum of excitement and inching their way closer to the equines in order to capture their images.

The Budweiser Clydesdales are the exciting new participants for the annual Lobster Festival Parade, held in Rockland since 1948. Some of the previous years’ featured participants that returned this year include the Portland Pirates mascot and the Crushstation.

Also in the parade were fire trucks from Warren, Waldoboro, Cushing, and Thomaston.

Several nonprofits such as Special Olympics, Area Interfaith Food Pantry, and March of Dimes walked the route, as did a dance group from Baltimore, MD.

 

Rockland prepares for 68th Maine Lobster Festival: The numbers behind the annual affair

Budweiser’s gentle giants bring out heart in Rockland

Aboard the USS Tortuga