May 31, 2025
Photo courtesy of Bob Bond
Welcome to Wiscasset Wormfest
Wormfest celebrates the unique heritage and vibrant spirit of Wiscasset, the "worm capital of the world." Through food, fun, and festivities, we bring our community together to honor our working waterfront, cherish local traditions, and share the charm of our town with neighbors and visitors alike.
Schedule
Saturday, May 31, 2025
Join us all day down at the Railroad Avenue parking lot and street area for food, fun, and live music! Scholarships will be awarded during the performance of Something Stupid in the evening.
Photos courtesy of Bob Bond
Wormfest Store
Pre-Order is now open! Orders will be picked up at Wormfest or the Wiscasset Community Center (date tbd). We are not shipping at this time, sorry!
All proceeds from merchandise go back to Wormfest to provide scholarships for Wiscasset Middle High School seniors as well as startup funds for each year of Wormfest.
More about Wiscasset & the Worm Digging Industry
Wiscasset, Maine, earning its moniker as the "worm capital," boasts a thriving worming industry deeply rooted in its maritime heritage and rich coastal ecosystem. The industry revolves around the harvesting and cultivation of bloodworms and sandworms, prized bait for anglers seeking to lure fish from the depths of the Atlantic Ocean.
At the heart of Wiscasset's worming industry are the intrepid harvesters who brave the mudflats and tidal estuaries in search of these elusive creatures. Armed with rakes and shovels, they scour the muddy substrate, carefully extracting the wriggling worms buried beneath the surface. The process requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of the tides and currents that govern the worms' movements.
Once harvested, the worms are meticulously sorted and packed for distribution to bait shops and fishing enthusiasts across the region. Demand for Wiscasset's bloodworms and sandworms is robust, fueled by the area's reputation for producing some of the finest bait in the country.
The worming industry also plays a vital role in the local economy, providing employment opportunities for residents and supporting ancillary businesses such as bait shops, tackle manufacturers, and tourism ventures.
Background Photo courtesy of Kacey Mullins
Interested in making a donation?
Wiscasset Wormfest is proudly underneath the umbrella of the Wiscasset Creative Alliance (a 501c3) and therefore your donations are fully tax-deductible. All funds raised over the cost of the event will be given out to two or more Wiscasset high school senior students in the form of a scholarship. Click below to donate!