Public Clambakes

Public Clambakes

Few things are as Rhode Island as a shoreline clambake, but for many of us who don't have the courage (or ingenuity) to do it ourselves, they can remain a postcard dream.

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

Lucky for us, a few times a summer, public clambakes make the postcard real, from steamers and corn to biscuits and lobsters. Thrown by some of the most longstanding clambake pros in New England, these are a golden opportunity to have it all, dripping butter included. Two clambakes are coming up this weekend, and if you miss them, there's always August. Here are the three public clambakes in Rhode Island this summer. Make sure you hit at least one.

July 3 with Kempenaar's Clambake Club, Valley Rd, Middletown, 5pm
When the bake bell rings, get ready for a feast of clam chowder, steamed clams, mussels, a whole lobster, chourico and much more. Cash bar, entertainment. Rain or shine. Advance ticket purchase required. 847-1441, www.newportclambakes.com.

July 5 with McGrath's Public Clambake, Fort Adams State Park, Newport, 6-9pm
A traditional Rhode Island clambake, including Rhode Island "clear broth" quahog chowder, clams, mussels, lobster, salad, brown bread, corn on the cob, potato, chourico, BBQ chicken, and watermelon. $70 per person; $30 for children's buffet; cash bar; advanced registration required. All proceeds to benefit the Fort Adams Trust. 841-0707, www.riclambake.com

Aug 21, Clambake at the Lighthouse, Rose Island Lighthouse, 11am-3:30pm
This is the world's most trashless, bring-your-own-blanket-and-sit-on-the-ground-clambake FEAST! Island fun for the whole family! Live music. Ticket includes clambake, games, tours and round trip boat to Rose Island. Join now for Member discount. Attendance limited to 150. Reservations required. Rain or shine. Member discount. 847-4242, www.roseislandlighthouse.org