A traditional New England clambake is a beloved celebration of fresh seafood, sandy beaches, and great company — but if you want to elevate your clambake into an extraordinary experience, adding a few unique touches can transform the fun gathering into an unforgettable event.
Here are some exciting clambake add-ons to make your next event one for the books!
Pre-Bake Appetizers To Set the Mood
Starting your clambake with flavorful appetizers is a great way to build anticipation for the main course. These options bring a fresh twist to traditional seafood starters:
Clam Chowder Shots: These bite-sized portions are rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making them the perfect warm-up before the feast. Not only are they easy to serve but they also add a gourmet touch that’ll impress even the pickiest of eaters.
Grilled Seafood Skewers: These can feature shrimp, scallops, or chunks of fresh fish marinated in herbs and olive oil, then seared to perfection. The smoky char from the grill complements the seafood’s natural flavors.
Interactive Stations for Fun and Flavor
Interactive stations are a fun way to engage your guests and add a layer of personalization to their dining experience. These clambake add-ons let your guests get creative with their meals:
Raw Bar: A raw bar with a selection of oysters, clams, and shrimp is always a crowd-pleaser. Include a variety of sauces and toppings, from classic mignonette to tangy cocktail sauce or spicy horseradish.
Build-Your-Own Potato Topping Bar: A build-your-own potato topping bar is a fantastic way to take this humble side dish to the next level. Offer toppings like sour cream, chives, crispy bacon bits, cheese, and butter.
Activities To Get the Party Going
After indulging in all that delicious seafood, you’ll want to give your guests a chance to burn off some energy and make room for more fun.
Horseshoe Tournaments: Set up a horseshoe pit and organize a casual tournament. It’s a fun, laid-back game that guests of all ages can enjoy.
Tug-of-War: This classic game is an activity that will get everyone involved. It’s a great way to build team spirit among your guests.
Beach Volleyball: If you’re hosting your clambake on the beach, beach volleyball will encourage your guests to spike, serve, and dive as they compete in an informal match. This high-energy game is perfect for adding excitement and laughter to your clambake.
Live Music To Set the Scene
Nothing enhances the atmosphere of a clambake like live music. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back vibe or an upbeat tempo, live performances or curated playlists can elevate the mood.
Local Bands: Hiring a local band that plays beachy, acoustic tunes will set the perfect laid-back vibe for your clambake. Guests can relax, chat, and enjoy the music while savoring their meals.
Steel Drummers: For a more tropical twist, consider adding steel drummers to your clambake. The lively and rhythmic sounds of the drums will transport your guests to a tropical island, making your event feel like a mini-vacation.
Themed Playlists: If live music isn’t in the budget, create themed playlists that match your event’s atmosphere. Whether it’s a playlist of classic rock hits, beach tunes, or modern pop, music can enhance the overall experience and keep the energy alive throughout the day.
Desserts To End on a Sweet Note
The grand finale of any event is the dessert; these clambake add-ons will leave your guests with sweet memories.
S’mores Bar: This add-on is the perfect way to cap off your clambake. Offer a variety of chocolate options, graham crackers, and marshmallows so guests can make their own gooey creations.
Ice Cream Cart: An ice cream cart is a refreshing and nostalgic treat on a hot summer day. Stock it with classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, and offer fun toppings like sprinkles, hot fudge, and fresh fruit.
Fruit Pies: Fruit pies are a delicious way to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into your dessert spread. Blueberry, apple, or peach pies offer a homey, comforting finish to your meal that guests will love.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to hosting a memorable clambake, unique clambake add-ons can make all the difference. From creative appetizers to interactive stations, lively activities, and sweet desserts, these fun additions will elevate your clambake into an unforgettable experience your guests will rave about for days!
East Coast Clambakes offers a wide range of clambake packages and customizable add-ons to create your perfect event. Contact us today to start planning your next clambake with unique add-ons to wow your guests!