The Big Parade, part of the 2025 Maine Lobster Festival, kicks off Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, at 10 a.m., on Main Street, in downtown Rockland.

This year’s parade theme is “The Dog Days of Summer," and participants are encouraged to bring their most creative interpretations to life. From costumed pups to sun-soaked seaside floats, the possibilities are endless. The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile will even make appearances at the parade and afterward at the Festival grounds.

Leading the celebration as Grand Marshal is Bea Dodge, a beloved Rockland resident known for her warm smile behind the counter at Wasses Hot Dogs for more than 30 years.

"Bea is more than a familiar face — she’s a community champion who donates her time, talents and famous baked goods to countless fundraisers and events," said the Lobster Festival Corporation, in a news release. "Her dedication to Rockland has earned her a well-deserved spot at the front of this year’s Big Parade."

Over the years, the Big Parade has welcomed everything from local dance troupes and vintage cars to crowd-favorites like the L.L. Bean Bootmobile and nationally recognized marching bands, Pat Patriot and the New England Patriots Cheerleaders, Color Guards, Kora Drifters, MVRA All Stars, towering stilt walkers and many more.

Participation is free. Local groups, businesses, nonprofits and individuals are invited to join the fun by submitting an entry form online.

"Whether you’re driving a classic car, marching in costume or designing a float, this is your moment to celebrate community pride and Maine’s rich lobster heritage," said the Festival.

Parade entries will be judged in several categories including People’s Choice, Antique Vehicle, Commercial, Nonprofit, Marching, Band, Director’s Choice and Theme.

This year's judges include:

Terri Sukeforth –  Sukeforth has been a judge for four years and works at Prock Marine, a local business in Rockland. 

Fletcher Smith McNaboe and MJ McNaboe – The couple, returning as judges, are co-owners and brokers at City + Harbor Real Estate Group, a Rockland-based business. 

Jimmy Blanchette – A first time judge, Blanchette owns Ever Green Yard Solutions and helped with the parade in 2024. 

Nichole Kalloch – Another first time judge this year, Kalloch is formally known as Rockland’s Mayor.

To register your group or float for the parade, visit mainelobsterfestival.com.