The 42nd Annual Friendship Day and Friendship Lobster Boat Races are taking place this weekend, July 18-20, in Friendship.

Friendship Day kicks off this Friday, July 18 with a Pie Contest at 5 p.m. (yes, spectators can get a slice of pie for a donation) followed by a full day of family fun events on Saturday, July 19.

On Saturday there will be a 5K/1mile Road Races (register here) at 8am; Parade “Young and Old” at 10am, Kids Area with watermelon eating contest, Horse and Carriage Rides, Large Craft Fair, Bake Sale, Friendship Fire Department’s famous fries and lobster rolls, Silent and Live Auctions (1-4pm), and Chicken BBQ dinner.

"This annual event is our main community fundraiser that directly supports our town ambulance services," said a news release.

Parade participants can start lining up at 9:30am on Tamarack Rd. The complete schedule is available at https://www.facebook.com/Friendshipdaymaine

The weekend wraps up with the annual Friendship Lobster Boat Races, Sunday, July 20, in the Friendship Harbor. Registration begins at 8am at the Town Landing, with races starting at 10am. Food and apparel will be for sale at the Town Landing, Town Landing Rd, and Wallace Lobster Wharf, 196 Harbor Rd. The Friendship Lobster Boat Races directly support the Friendship Memorial Scholarship Fund.

All events are free to attend. Cash and check only accepted most events, including Silent and Live Auctions.