Lobsterfest, an annual fundraiser organized by the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, returns to downtown Columbus on Saturday, May 19th. Organizers say this event is being branded “Claws for a Cause.” They say the event raises money for the Philharmonic’s music education programs, including the Columbus Indiana Children’s Choir, the Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, and Strings in the Schools, which more than 13,000 adults and children each year in South Central Indiana. Lobsterfest, sponsored by Old National Bank, will take place along Fifth Street between Franklin and Washington Streets downtown.

Philharmonic officials say that an authentic New England clambake and lobster boil, catered by Foster’s Clambakes and Catering located in York, Maine, begins at 6 p.m. for a Happy Hour complete with live music, a “lobster lounge” sponsored by Thompson Furniture, as well as a cash bar provided by The Garage Pub & Grill. Happy Hour music will be supplemented by a special musical presentation by a Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Ensemble. A buffet-style dinner follows at 7 p.m. and includes New England clam chowder, steamed clams and mussels, lobster and more. Vegetarian options are available.

For more on this fundraiser, visit thecip.org.