ROCKLAND — It was a fitting opportunity. A float with a large wedding cake followed by several ladies in gowns, walking, dancing, gliding through the parade route. In the pickup truck that pulled the cake, two men and a young boy waved their way along the estimated 1.5 mile route, until they happened to be in front of the judges, who sat in high chairs outside the Strand Theatre.

And then, there he was – the man from the passenger seat, walking among the “brides” until he found one in particular. He accompanied her a few steps before swiveling around to face her. His hand went to one pocket. The crowd held a collective breath. He dropped to one knee. The crowd hooted and cheered. She fell into his embrace. And then, in a flash, they were walking on, together along the parade route.

The Lobster Festival Parade, Aug. 2, 2025, was one of leaning in, leaning on, and leaning forward. The width of the parade lane narrowed considerably as spectators leaned in further and further. Intrepid selfie-takers leaned even more, and not just for the Oscar Mayer wienermobile, but for pirates, Shriners, and military uniforms. Candy flew from floats. Dog treats shuffled from participants to four-legged audiences, and bubbles enveloped the entire events, giving us a reason to lean in.

View more parade photos at Lobster Fest 'Big Parade' 2025 leans in, savors the sunshine 

Reach Sarah Thompson at news@penbaypilot.com