This year's Lobster Festival got underway Friday night with a crowd that grew larger as the night went on.

Of course the highlight was the lobster dinners available in small and large as well as surf and turf options. Lobster shell cracking made it easier for guests to enjoy the tasty crustaceans as they listened to local bands playing classic tunes. After finishing their meal— or before—many got to their feet and started to show their moves.

The mechanical bull also drew a crowd. This year also marked the first VIP Lobster Lounge hosted by the Redondo Beach Young Professionals.

There were other activities to tempt attendees at the Seaside Lagoon festival. Vendors offered clothing, artwork and crafts. Carnival games, face painting and balloon animals catered to the younger participants. An aisle of food booths offered Thai and Italian dishes as well as ice cream to those who didn't get their fill of surf and turf.

The festival opens again Saturday at noon, closing at 11 p.m. Sunday hours are noon to 8 p.m.