The Maine lobster industry is celebrating the third annual National Lobster Day on Monday, 25 September, with the continued support of the state legislators who helped make the holiday official.
The famed crustacean is culturally and economically important to the U.S. Northeast region, particularly for the state of Maine, which is now responsible for providing more than 80 percent of the lobsters in the country, according to Bloomberg analysis. With this in mind, U.S. senators Angus King and Susan Collins – both representing Maine – first proposed three years ago that a day be established to commemorate the domestic lobster industry’s significance, settling on 25 September as the ideal date after consulting industry experts.
"Most people don't know that the best time to enjoy a Maine lobster is during late summer and fall, which is why we celebrate National Lobster Day on 25 September," said Dave Cousens, a Maine Lobsterman, in a press statement. "It's important to us that we bring attention to our industry during the time when our catch is at its highest."
"The Maine lobster story is truly unparalleled, and we are so thrilled to once again be celebrating National Lobster Day with the support of Sens. King and Collins in Maine," added Matt Jacobson, the executive director of the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative. "The Maine lobster industry represents a true success story, and that is something we find resonates not only with consumers, but with chefs who want a story to serve with their food."
Leading up to National Lobster Day, the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative has been hosting a “Maine After Midnight” series of industry dinner events highlighting lobster and the sustainable practices of Maine’s lobstering industry. The events have been held in culinary epicenters around the United States, including New York City, Dallas, Chicago, and San Francisco.
Approximately 150 million pounds of lobster valued at USD 500 million (EUR 421 million) is landed each year, making it one of the most lucrative seafood species for the United States.
