The Essex Division of the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce will sponsor the twenty-ninth annual Essex ClamFest on Saturday, October 22nd (rain date: Sunday, October 23rd), from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Shepard Memorial Park in Essex.

The highlight of the day will be the Clam Chowder Tasting, a competition that pits area restaurants against one another to determine who serves the best chowder on Cape Ann. Many of the area restaurants are expected to serve up their favorite chowder recipes starting at 12:00 noon and ending at 2:00 p.m. The public will also have the opportunity to sample and vote on their favorite chowder.

In addition to the Chowder competition, an interesting variety of activities has been planned, including an arts and crafts area; entertainment throughout the afternoon; the Lions Club food pavilion; an Ipswich Ale station; organization, church, and non-profit tables; a number of games for children and a health fair which will include flu shots. The crafts area and the rides will be open to the public starting at 11:00 a.m. For more information contact Tim Burton at 978-283-1601 or by email at tim@capeannchamber.com.