Some folks start counting down the days to summer. Others mark their calendars for the holidays. But there’s a special kind of food lover who starts calling the Chamber… in January… asking one very specific question:
“When do Claw Down tickets go on sale?”

Last year, one particularly eager attendee reached out—again and again. January turned into February, then March. Finally, he left his name and number so we could give him a heads-up. Why the urgency? He had friends coming to visit fromAustralia, and they had only one mission: The Claw Down or bust!

Years before, the group had attended the event, but one of them had missed out on the full VIP experience—and the exclusive swag. One commemorative cup wasn’t enough. This time, they were determined to do it right. I was happy to make sure their tickets were ready and waiting at will-call.

When the night of The Claw Down finally arrived, I was stationed at the check-in booth, wristbands and drink tickets flying, when a cheerful woman approached me.
“Are you Kjirsten?” she asked.
“Yes,” I answered, just a little weary.

With a smile, she reached into her bag and pulled out a white t-shirt.
“This is a spiny lobster from Australia,” she said. “Very different from a Maine lobster—but we had to come all this way to get some Claws! Thank you for helping us earlier.”

What a sweet and unexpected gift—and a beautiful reminder that this lobster bite competition in Boothbay Harbor draws food lovers from around the world. The chefs who compete bring serious culinary magic to every plate, and it’s all served up in the most magical place.

And guess what? Claw Down 2025 tickets are officially on sale!
Get your tickets now and join us for the event of the season—where lobster reigns supreme, and unforgettable flavors (and stories!) are always on the menu. 

The Claw Down - June 12th, 2025
Location: The Shipyard in Boothbay Harbor - 120 Commercial Street, Boothbay Harbor.
Featuring: Lobster bites from the region’s top chefs, VIP experiences, swag, and more!
More details www.boothbayharbor.com

 PLUS — don’t miss the 10th Anniversary of Fishin’ for Fashion Saturday!
Celebrate a decade of coastal creativity, community spirit, and unforgettable runway fun featuring real working fishermen and upcycled designs from our local talent. It’s one-of-a-kind, just like the Boothbay Region!

A huge thank you to our amazing sponsors who help make Claw Down and Fishin’ for Fashion possible. Your support brings our community together and helps us shine on the local (and international!) stage. We couldn’t do it without you.
Our Presenting Sponsor : Carousel Marina.
Legacy Sponsors: First National Bank, Bangor Savings Bank, J. Edward Knight Insurance, Tindal & Callahan Real Estate, Spruce Point Inn & Spa.