Every summer’s end, the Port of Los Angeles in the San Pedro neighbourhood hosts the world’s largest lobster festival, where foodies are enticed by the affordable, freshly-caught Maine lobster.

Awarded a Guinness World Record in 2009 for serving the most seafood at an outdoor event, the festival is making waves this year by offering significantly larger Maine lobsters as part of their menu -- 3.5lb as opposed to 1.25lb. A rarity that usually commands $100 or more in a restaurant, the gargantuan crustacean can be had for $87 at the festival, with the price including a hat and t-shirt as well as VIP line service and entry to all three days of the 14th Port of Los Angeles Lobster Festival, which runs from 14 to 16 September.

"This is a great addition to our lobster lineup. Guests have been asking since last year for a larger lobster option. The bragging rights alone are a great side to the dish," said Jim Hall, festival producer.

Those intimidated by that amount of shellfish can opt for the regular Maine lobster meal (which includes coleslaw, a roll and lots of butter) at $19, or double up for $32. Those craving something other than seafood can peruse the international food court or the many food trucks on site, like the Baconmania Truck with its bacon-wrapped chicken drummettes or the Ragin Cajun truck’s chicken and sausage bisque soup.

Unlike the limited supply of gargantuan lobster, the family-friendly festival is purported to have a never-ending cache of freshly-caught lobsters flown in daily from the Gulf of Maine and cooked on the spot. In 2011, 32,000 Maine lobsters were flown in -- and event organisers are expecting to exceed that number this year with around 36,000.

But the lobster festival isn't just about the lobster. Live music from 19 indie bands will keep everyone dancing while kids can have fun at the pirate camp, going on scavenger hunts and taking in a pirate show.

General admission is $10 per day, or attendees can opt for the $41 First Class admission which covers all three days and includes a regular lobster meal, drink of choice (beer, wine or soda) and access to the VIP waterfront dining lounge. All tickets will be on sale at the gate, and First Class tickets can be purchased online in advance.



Caroline Pardilla is the Los Angeles Localite for BBC Travel. She also writes Carolineoncrack.com.