More than 6,000 pounds of scallops are expected to be consumed by more than 50,000 visitors at this weekend's annual Bourne Scallop Festival.

Hosted by the nonprofit Cape Cod Canal Region Chamber of Commerce, which serves Wareham, Bourne, and Sandwich, the festival is held on the banks of the Cape Cod Canal in Buzzards Bay Park and features a midway with rides and games, continuous entertainment, and dozens of craft vendors.

This year's festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, September 20 and 21, and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, September 22.

"This isn't your average festival," says Marie Oliva, president and CEO of the Chamber. "The community has a big stake in the event, helping to make sure the fest is superbly organized and enjoyable," she added, noting that more than 600 volunteers man the festival. "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."

Entertainment this year includes the United States Coast Guard Academy, Cadet Glee Club, and the Mass Maritime Jazz Ensemble. Wareham-based cover band Sound Tower takes the stage at 7 p.m. on Friday. For a full schedule of entertainment, visit www.bournescallopfest.com.

General admission is $6, admission is $2 for children ages 6 to 12, and children age 5 and under are admitted free of charge. Combination tickets for admission and a scallop dinner cost $22, while a chicken dinner combination ticket costs $20. Free parking is available.

On Friday, Rockwell Amusement hosts Wrist Band Night from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Families can purchase a $20 wrist band per person and ride an unlimited number of rides.

The CapeFlyer rail service has added additional runs to its regular weekend schedule to accommodate the Scallop Fest. For more information, visit www.capeflyer.com.

Proceeds from the festival help fund the Chamber's scholarship program for four area high schools, help the Chamber donate to local food pantries and the Friends of the Bourne Council on Aging, and contribute to the operation of visitor centers in Buzzards Bay and Sagamore Beach.