Join us on the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend for the popular Alewife Festival. Now in its 13th year, the quirky festival is fun for the whole family.
What are alewives and why celebrate them? Alewives are fish that spend most of their lives at sea. Each spring they return to freshwater to spawn. When they return, they “climb” the stone fish ladder to access Damariscotta Lake. This fascinating natural event is a perfect reason to hold a day long celebration.
Alewives provide the core entertainment for the day. The festival is held around the peak of the alewife season and the fish should be visible from many locations. Look for them at the fish house, along the ladder, and at the top of the ladder.
The day starts with the Run with the Alewives 5K. The out and back course traverses gently rolling paved roads. The festival is conveniently located next to the start and finish of the race. In past years, participants have received a race t-shirt, reusable shopping bag, and coupons for the festival. There are also cash prizes for top finishers. Proceeds from the race benefit the Damariscotta Mills Fish Ladder Restoration. Never run a 5K before? Find a Couch to 5K program and start training today. Discounts are available for runners under 14 and local track teams.
Be sure to arrive hungry. Each year the festival features smoked alewives from Mulligan’s Smokehouse, oysters, hot dogs, and veggie burgers. Early attendees can even find breakfast sandwiches. Wash all that food down with a local beer.
The family friendly festival boasts lots of activities for children. Check the schedule for kid-centered entertainment such a magic, puppets, and juggling. Kids can have their face painted. Kids and kids-at-heart can get up close with marine life with the Darling Marine Center touch tank.
Of course, no festival is complete without an opportunity to buy something. Try your luck at the silent auction. Purchase a delectable treat at the bake sale. Perhaps the festival has sparked an interest in fish. Fish goods and gear will be available for purchase.
Can’t make it to the festival? You can still take part in the celebration by entering to win a commemorative quilt. Chances of winning to fairly high since only 700 tickets will be sold. Tickets will be available at the festival, in advance at the Skidompha Public Library, or online.
