The 23rd annual Pemaquid Oyster Festival, a one-day fundraiser celebrating the oyster growers of Maine's Damariscotta River region. For 2026 the festival has MOVED from Schooner Landing in Damariscotta to Mine Oyster Raw Bar & Gathering Place, 16 Wharf Street, on the waterfront in downtown Boothbay Harbor. The day features freshly shucked oysters from ten Damariscotta River farms, live music across two stages, an oyster-shucking contest with a $500 prize, a silent auction that closes at 5pm, and a free exhibit tent with marine-conservation nonprofits and oyster-themed artisans. Bands booked for 2026 are Dave Gagne, The Hadacol Bouncers, Primo Cubano and The Oystermen, each playing two sets across the two stages. Two full-service bars plus a specialty shooter bar; the kitchen runs oyster chowder, baked and fried oysters, lobster and crab rolls, an oyster po'boy, fish and chips and more. Proceeds support the Edward A. Myers Marine Conservation Fund. Admission $15 general / $100 VIP — note that oysters are bought separately, one ticket buying three oysters from a single farm. The organizers say the first floor is fully accessible, and that the venue's windows on all sides make it equally suited to a rainy day. No new attendees are admitted after 5pm. A separate Oyster & Wine Pairing Dinner is Saturday, September 26, 6–9pm, with a menu by chef Ralph Smith and wine pairings by Browne Trading's Sierra Fahrman; the organizers warn it sells out fast. Distinct from "The Maine Oyster Festival" held in Freeport.