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06/29/2021 12:00 AMThe East Haven Chamber of Commerce has announced the return of Lobsterpalooza, which will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 18 from 6 to 10 p.m. rain or shine at Anthony’s Oceanview, 450 Lighthouse Road, New Haven.
“This year as things began to open, it was a bit of a shock to the system to start planning events again, but it feels great to be able to have an in-person event again, especially with this being the 10th anniversary,” said Jennifer Higham, president of the Chamber. “We know how much the community looks forward to this event and it’s long overdue to get together again.”
The event was born as East Haven Lobster Fest 11 years ago when Mark Azzolina of Big Prints first put it into motion. As the event progressed, Azzolina began calling it Lobsterpalooza, which stuck. As the event began to grow, Higham decided that her business, Jennifer Higham Photography, would sponsor the creation of a mascot.
“Leo the Lobster was born and has turned into the mascot for the chamber,” said Higham, noting that Leo will be making an appearance at the event.
This year’s event, which is being co-chaired by Jim Oca and Lorrie Maiorano, marks Lobsterpalooza’s 10th anniversary. Tickets ($75) must be reserved by Aug. 15 and include appetizers, dinner, a T-shirt, and entertainment.
Each guest will receive one steak and one lobster along with assorted appetizers. A cash bar will be available. In addition, the full menu also includes hamburgers, hot dogs, salad, clam chowder, Italian bread, pasta salad, corn on the cob, BBQ ribs, BBQ roasted chicken quarters, steamed mussels, zuppa di clams, orrechiette, and potato salad.
“If you leave hungry, something is wrong,” said Higham. “People just enjoy the entertainment and well all the food. It’s a fun event that has grown tremendously in the past 10 years.”
The 2021 Lobsterpalooza is luau-themed and guests are encouraged to wear Hawaiian prints or outfits. There will be a raffle as well as musical entertainment by Timmy Maia and the Boys.
Lobsterpalooza is one of the chamber’s biggest events for both the community and businesses. The event is a fundraiser for the East Haven Chamber of Commerce, which has a mission to “facilitate in all aspects of growing your business by offering networking, web and social media, advertising and education opportunities. It’s clear our goal is you. Through the chamber you will have the ability to work with local business owners, community advocates, and local and state legislators with the same goal; growth and success.”
Tickets for the event are available at easthavenchamber.com/lobsterpalooza.
“We have some surprises in the works and they are coming together,” said Higham. “We love that so many of our members are involved along with the community. It is an event everyone looks forward to.”