Each year, amateur chefs compete in the annual Maine Lobster Festival Seafood Cooking Contest. The event attracts visitors and contestants from all over the world, as well as print and broadcast media channels.

Amateur chefs age 18 and older compete for $525.00 in prize money during this popular event.

A panel of judges select the winner based on creativity, suitability of the seafood to the recipe, and simplicity.

The contest begins at 9 a.m., Friday, August 4, 2023 in the North Entertainment Tent on the festival grounds. Judging begins at 11:30 a.m., with prizes announced and awarded around 12:30 p.m.