Usually a New England clambake is held on the beach and is a great way to have a fun celebration. Some inventive groups of friends and family have made the clambake more accessible by holding them in their backyards or at the park.

Celebrations typically foster upbeat and happy moods. They allow for socializing and enjoying the presence of the people around you. Clam bakes are great for the holiday season, and are terrific option for many different types of celebrations, including New Year's, Hanukkah, and Christmas.

Traditional food at the party consists of a variety of meats, mostly seafood. Clams, lobster meat, scallops, and oysters are all steamed in a pit. Other items, such as sausage, corn and potatoes join the seafood feast. Often, families and friends add carrots, celery and onions to the mix.

The food is all cooked in a pit that has been dug in the sand. Hot stones or coals are put in the bottom of the hole and then covered with wet seaweed. Sometimes a metal grill is put on top of the seaweed. The food is layered on top. The delicious treats are then steamed in the hole.

A New England clambake has minor differences from region to region. The seafood options are the number one way that each region distinguishes itself from the others. For instance, a clambake may have quahogs or mussels. Or, in another region the steamed seafood might be almost entirely lobster and clams.

If you are planning a clam bake, then the first thing to know is how you can use the beach. Different beaches have their own set of rules and regulations. If you wish to prepare food there itself then you must know if it is allowed or not. You need to prepare the food elsewhere if the beach does not permit to lit a fire.

Getting a professional will eliminate most of these difficulties. They can deal with the local government, and get permission. They can purchase whatever is necessary, prepare and set up everything. All you need to do is determine who you wish to be there! If you choose to go all out, professionals can include drinks both alcoholic and non at extra cost.

All in all, there are few better ways to celebrate the holidays than a New England clambake. It is a holiday tradition for many families, but if you've never had the pleasure, you just may find it will become your family's favorite way to celebrate almost any occasion.

New England clambakes are festive events almost always held on the beach. Traditional food consists of a variety of seafood, like clams, lobster meat, and oysters, all steamed in a sand pit. Wet seaweed covers coals in the bottom of the pit and all the food is piled on top of a grill that covers the coals. When planning a clambake, determine if you can use the beach and if they allow fires to be lit. If not, hire a caterer. They'll have the permits needed and will plan your party and bring the food. If you want the ideal celebration, try a clam bake.