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2026 Auction Opening June 25
Art Afloat AuctionBrowse and bid on over 30 one-of-a-kind artist-designed lobster boats. View & Bid on Auction Items |
Why Bid?
When you place a bid on an Art Afloat boat, you're doing more than purchasing a one-of-a-kind piece of Freeport-inspired art — you're investing in local artists, local businesses, and the future of our community.
The Greater Freeport Chamber of Commerce has seen firsthand through events such as the "Freeport Chocolate Festival" and "Boots & Brews" how bringing people downtown benefits local businesses and strengthens community connections. Art Afloat was created with that same spirit in mind—using art, creativity, and community engagement to draw visitors to Freeport, support local artists, and encourage exploration of our town.
As the program grows, we hope Art Afloat becomes a signature community event that contributes to the economic vitality of Freeport while helping fulfill the Chamber's mission of elevating and nurturing businesses within the local community to build collective success through economic growth.
A portion of the auction proceeds will also support a new Youth Philanthropy Project led by the Freeport High School Interact Club. Under the guidance of faculty advisor Dede Bennell, students will gain hands-on experience in philanthropy by making real decisions about funding local projects and nonprofit initiatives.
Through this program, students will:
• Assess community needs
• Review grant proposals
• Award funding to local organizations
The project empowers students to become active community leaders while developing skills in teamwork, decision-making, civic engagement, and responsible giving.
By supporting local artists, engaging future community leaders, encouraging visitors to explore downtown, and fostering connections throughout the region, every bid helps bring together the future of Freeport, its businesses, and its community.
When you place a bid on an Art Afloat boat, you're doing more than purchasing a one-of-a-kind piece of Freeport-inspired art — you're investing in local artists, local businesses, and the future of our community.
The Greater Freeport Chamber of Commerce has seen firsthand through events such as the "Freeport Chocolate Festival" and "Boots & Brews" how bringing people downtown benefits local businesses and strengthens community connections. Art Afloat was created with that same spirit in mind—using art, creativity, and community engagement to draw visitors to Freeport, support local artists, and encourage exploration of our town.
As the program grows, we hope Art Afloat becomes a signature community event that contributes to the economic vitality of Freeport while helping fulfill the Chamber's mission of elevating and nurturing businesses within the local community to build collective success through economic growth.
A portion of the auction proceeds will also support a new Youth Philanthropy Project led by the Freeport High School Interact Club. Under the guidance of faculty advisor Dede Bennell, students will gain hands-on experience in philanthropy by making real decisions about funding local projects and nonprofit initiatives.
Through this program, students will:
• Assess community needs
• Review grant proposals
• Award funding to local organizations
The project empowers students to become active community leaders while developing skills in teamwork, decision-making, civic engagement, and responsible giving.
By supporting local artists, engaging future community leaders, encouraging visitors to explore downtown, and fostering connections throughout the region, every bid helps bring together the future of Freeport, its businesses, and its community.
Sponsor an Artist in Art Afloat 2026!
The Greater Freeport Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce Art Afloat 2026, a public art exhibition featuring painted lobster boats displayed throughout downtown Freeport this summer. After a successful first run in 2024, this year we have 36 boats ready for artists, and we need your support!
Why Sponsor? Sponsoring a boat is a fun, high-visibility way to support local artists, promote your business, and celebrate Freeport’s community spirit. Proceeds from the auction will benefit:
- 50% to the artists
- 40% to the Chamber of Commerce
- 10% to the new Youth Philanthropy Project at Freeport High School
Sponsor Perks:
- 2 reserved spots at the Art Afloat Launch Party on June 25, 2026, at the Harraseeket Inn
- Your business logo displayed on the auction site
- Advertised with your sponsored boat’s promotions
- Your boat will feature a plaque with your business name displayed outdoors June 25- Aug 20
What Your Sponsorship Does
- $200 provides a lobster boat to an artist to decorate
- Boats will be displayed outdoors in downtown Freeport from June 25 – August 20, 2026
- Each boat features a plaque with your business name and auction details
- If you are choosing an artist, please have them contact us directly to pick up a pre-cut boat.
- All boats MUST be returned by May 1, 2026, in order to participate in the exhibition and auction.
- If you don’t have a particular artist in mind, we’ll connect you with an interested participant.
- Launch Party: June 25, 2026, at the Harraseeket Inn (sponsors get 2 reserved spots)
- Boat Display: Downtown Freeport, June 25 – August 20, 2026
- Auction: Online through Give Butter, August 20, 2026
Interested?Contact us for more details and sponsorship options:
[email protected] or [email protected]
Join us in making Art Afloat a Freeport tradition while supporting artists and empowering youth to shape the community!
2025 AUCTION CLOSED! Thank you for a Successful year!
Art, Lobster Yachts, Freeport, Maine
