MATTAPOISETT — In mid-July, Shipyard Park will once again serve as the site for a more than week-long festival as Harbor Days returns to Mattapoisett. 

The event thrown by the Mattapoisett Lions Club is the “area’s biggest family-oriented event,” communications director Kimberly Ray said.

It’s also the organization’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds from the event go to scholarships, charities and projects, according to Ray.

Food, entertainment and a silent auction serve as some of the attractions of Harbor Days, at which there’s “something for everyone,” Ray said.

“A lot of the things people love to see will be back,” she said.

That includes strawberry shortcake served during the event.

The shortcake served throughout the week is prepared days in advance by a large team, according to Ray.

People line up through Shipyard Park for it, she said. People also line up through the park for a pancake breakfast, which this year is Sunday, July 21.

Other food-related attractions include a Friday, July 19 fish fry provided by Oxford Creamery, a Saturday, July 20 “LobsterFest” and a Tuesday, July 16 “Taste of Mattapoisett” event organized by the Mattapoisett Woman’s Club.

Ray said the 2024 iteration of the silent auction at Harbor Days might be its “best year.”

There will also be nearly 100 booths of vendors, and local artists like the Showstoppers will perform music.

“Just a great family time, no matter what you’re looking for,” Ray said.

A new event for 2024 is a Thursday, July 11 floral design workshop hosted by Blossoms Flower Shop, at which attendees will create “seaside sunshine arrangements.”

“We’re excited about that,” Ray said.

The entertainment overall is wide and varied, and Harbor Days, among several other things, serves as an opportunity to enjoy a summer day by the water, according to Ray.

“Take a moment to relax and enjoy this wonderful event,” she said.