Lobsterfest, an annual fundraiser organized by the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, returns to downtown Columbus on Saturday, May 13th. Sponsored by Old National Wealth Management, the event takes place along Fifth Street between Franklin and Washington Streets in the Columbus Arts and Entertainment District.

The authentic New England clambake and lobster boil, catered by Foster’s Clambakes and Catering, begins at 6 p.m. for a Happy Hour complete with a cash bar and for a Happy Hour complete with a cash bar and live music provided by Dan and Linda Mustard. A Philharmonic Youth Ensemble, one of the programs benefiting from proceeds raised, has a special musical presentation just prior to dinner.

“Lobsterfest will have some new features this year,” said Margaret Powers, Executive Director of the Philharmonic. “The Lobsterfest committee, led by Tracy Haddad, has several ideas to extend the party after dinner including live music and lobster races. Race details, including which type of toy lobster to use and the means of propelling them around a track, are in the works.”

Lobsterfest tickets are divided into two levels: $100 Patron and $150 Patron Plus. Food will be prepared on-site in a lobster boil built on Fifth Street specifically for the occasion.

Proceeds from this event will help support the Philharmonic’s concert and music education programs that reach more than 13,000 adults and children each year in South Central Indiana. Additional support provided by Johnson Ventures, Hutch & Kevina Schumaker, Tracy L. Haddad Foundation, Enkei America, and Agresta, Storms & O’Leary.

To make reservations, call the Philharmonic Box Office at 812-376-2638, x1 or visit the Philharmonic website at www.thecip.org.