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Aiken, South Carolina: Lobster Races (Gone)

As part of a festival, the races were held only one evening every year, but they attracted a lot of lobsters. The popular event was held for almost 30 years, ending in 2017.

Great American Lobster Race

Directions:
Downtown, on Newberry St. SW, which for the festival and races is blocked off to traffic between Park Ave. SW and Augusta Aiken Rd.
Hours:
2017: Last race.
Status:
Gone

Visitor Tips and News About Lobster Races

Reports and tips from RoadsideAmerica.com visitors and Roadside America mobile tipsters. Some tips may not be verified. Submit your own tip.

Lobster Races

The 2015 Lobster Race is cancelled until next year because it got too popular. It will be held on the first Saturday of May starting next year.

[Jennifer Gilmore, 04/29/2015]

Lobster races.

Lobster Races

The lobster races were very exciting. There is a fee, but you can actually race a lobster.

[Kathleen Whelan, 06/08/2013]

Lobster mascot.

Lobster Races

As the story goes, the city of Aiken began the Lobster Races as a spoof of the Kentucky Derby. Regardless, you can still see live Maine racing lobsters during the month of May in the city's downtown festival area. The winner is allowed to go free. Beach music and lots of food round out the festival.

[Christy, 02/14/2004]

The races are held the Friday of the first weekend in May, on the evening before the Kentucky Derby. In 2011 there were 100 lobster contestants. June 2013: Photo added.


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