"Clawesome" good time at Lobsterfest 2024

With an uncertain, unpredictable forecast leading up to Lobsterfest on Saturday, June 8, the weather cooperated and good times were had by all at this year's event at Whistle Stop Park in Niwot. Deb Fowler, one of three head organizers of the event from the Niwot Business Association (NBA) along with Mary Coonce and Linda Klueber, reported 140 tickets sold for this year.

"[Lobsterfest] is a fun, signature event for Niwot to kick off the summer," Fowler said. "It's a great opportunity to build community and raise funds for non-profit [organizations]." Fowler elaborated on the fact that four years ago when they brought back Lobsterfest, formerly known as Lobster Bash, the weather did not cooperate and measures were taken this year just in case the "authentic Maine feel" returned.

One of the biggest aspects of Lobsterfest is the community it builds and an opportunity to meet new faces. Additionally, the silent auction that was held raised funds that go towards benefiting a different organization every year. This year, the money that was raised went towards the Left Hand Grange for further renovations and event-sponsorship.

Another highlight this year was the opportunity to feature the Longs Peak Brass Quintet, whose members were also present at Around the World Day on April 27. The brass quintet was made up of Paul Kellogg and Chris Berts on trumpet, Mark Himan on french horn, Curtis Fox on trombone, and Rod Christian on tuba.

One couple who volunteer at many Niwot events, Tony and Vicki Maurer, had never attended Lobsterfest prior to this year. "It was a lot of fun," said Vicki Maurer, "even with the brief rainstorm adding a little ambiance." Many attendees were grateful for the added large tent during the short period of torrential downpour that fortunately took place near the end of the event.

Every year improvements are made to this event to strive towards keeping it zero-waste, since it utilizes the same venue as Rock & Rails. Members of the Gargoyles program, who are trained volunteers, assist in preventing contamination in the compost and recycle bins used by the event.

Gargoyles supervisors gave a special thanks to Francesca Fowler, one of the Gargoyles usually seen at Rock & Rails saying, "Francesca did a phenomenal job helping with zero-waste and I'm so thankful she was able to step-up and handle this event."

Since the venue has no trash receptacles, a trash bin was provided by Mary Coonce for the small amount of this year's unavoidable disposable elements.

With the purchase of a ticket, attendees were provided a full lobster, corn, potatoes, a bread roll, beans, as well as a festive, themed cocktail and red-velvet bundt cakes. With plans and discussion already underway, there's no doubt this annual event will continue to grow and bring the community together for live-music, charitable donations, and of course, fresh lobster.