Yarmouth streets come alive with joy during annual clam festival

YARMOUTH (WGME) — Thousands of people lined the streets of Yarmouth Friday to get a taste of summer at the annual Clam Festival.

“It’s finally a nice night, and it’s just fun to be out here and enjoy the summer,” said Cape Elizabeth resident Mike Schmidt.

Crowds packed Main Street, mouths watering over fried clams, fair food and the infamous Lime Rickey.

And all the food sales are for a good cause. Vendors raise money for local Yarmouth groups, such as a Scouting America troop.

“It’s fun because you get to hang out with your friends and your troop leaders, and you get to just make food, so it’s fun,” said William Riddle, a Scouting America booth volunteer.

And beyond the food, the Friday parade is always a highlight of the weekend.

“I’m just trying to have a good time and enjoy the music,” said Suzanne Venezia, who is visiting Maine from Massachusetts. “I’m singing and my son is so embarrassed, so it’s just fun.”

“Seeing all the people come together and the little kids get up and dance and have fun, it’s a really great community event,” said Cape Elizabeth resident Gayle Schmidt.

The festival was filled with smiling faces on Friday, especially near the rides.

“I did the alien tour, and so did Stella,” said Arielle Navarro, who came to the clam fest with her mother and sisters.

“It was the funniest thing in the world,” said Stella Navarro, Arielle’s sister.

If you missed Friday’s festivities, there’s still time to join in the fun. You can find the full schedule of events this weekend here.