It's much more than scallops!

Over 55,000 patrons are expected to gather along the banks of the Cape Cod Canal and Buzzards Bay Railroad Bridge for the Bourne Scallop Fest on the weekend of September 24, 25 and 26.  The festival will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Visitors will see spectacular views, listen to non-stop entertainment, enjoy rides and games for the kids, as well as taste the best scallops around.

"This isn't your average festival," said Marie Oliva, President and CEO of the Cape Cod Canal Region Chamber. "The community has a big stake in the event...more than 500 volunteers man the Fest, it's the type of event that truly brings everyone together for a great time. And the economic stimulus for the town and the region is an added plus."

In addition to over three tons of scallops that will be consumed, people have plenty of other choices including chicken, lobster rolls, chowder, salads, a raw bar, hamburgers and hotdogs, specialty coffees, desserts, and much more. Cheese samplings will accompany the wine offered by Coastal Wine Trail representing nine local wineries. Harpoon Brewery will supply the beer.

General admission is $5,  children ages 12-and-under admitted free.  Free parking is available at the new parking lot by the canal owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

New this year on Friday night, Rockwell Amusement is offering a "Wrist Band Night." Families can purchase a $20 "wrist band" per child and ride all the rides from Friday at 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. using the wristband. A new juried Craft Show will be managed by Castleberry Fairs and Festivals from New Hampshire, bringing over 120 vendors selling unique and distinctive products.

Live entertainment includes the popular headliner, ENTRAIN, from Martha's Vineyard, on Saturday night at 7 p.m. Children will enjoy Toe Jam Puppet Band for two shows on Saturday and the Tall Tex Greeters, costumed characters on stilts. Other performers include Stage Door Canteen, Danny Banks and his All Star Band and the Dan Lawson Band.

For a complete entertainment schedule and for more information, go to www.bournescallopfest.com.