Crowds, crustaceans and contests abound at Summerside's Lobster Carnival

'They get a taste of how we celebrate our culture' says festival organizer

Image | Lobster carnival

Caption: This boy was one of the youngest to take in the start of the festivities on Thursday. (Rick Gibbs/CBC)

With lobster, harness racing and exhibition rides, the 62nd annual Lobster Carnival got underway Thursday in Summerside, P.E.I.
There will be demonstrations, food tasting and of course, plenty of lobster at the Credit Union Place carnival grounds.
The first carnival was held in 1956 and it's still going strong.

'Community celebration'

Organizer Marlene Campbell said the popular event brings Islanders and tourists together.
"It was started to bring visitors to Summerside. And I think what people love about it is it's a community celebration which welcomes visitors and they get a taste of … how we celebrate our culture."
Thursday night will feature a lobster eating competition and a lobster trap stacking event.
A traditional lobster supper and the P.E.I. Youth Talent competition will highlight Friday evening.
Saturday will see a roller derby demonstration, circus show and cardboard boat races on the waterfront.

Image | Lobster

Caption: It wouldn't be the Lobster Carnival without, well, lobster. (Rick Gibbs/CBC)

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Image | Lobster carnival

Caption: The annual Lobster Carnival has taken over downtown Summerside. (Rick Gibbs/CBC)

Image | Lobster carnival rides

Caption: The exhibition rides were a hit on Thursday, as usual. (Rick Gibbs/CBC)

Image | Lobster carnival

Caption: The food alone attracts many people to the carnival. (Rick Gibbs/CBC)

Image | Lobster carnival food

Caption: The food isn't limited to just lobster. (Rick Gibbs/CBC)

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