Traditional Cape Cod clambakes have been celebrations for generations of families along the New England coast. The savory dish is meant to be made, and enjoyed, by a large group of people who come together for joyous occasions. For example, a crowd will gather on a New England beach for a New Year's Eve party, bringing mussels, clams, rock lobsters and crabs destined for consumption, and then dig a pit, which will then be lined with smooth stones.

To begin, a hole that is 2 feet by 4 feet must be dug in the sand at the beach. The depth of this hole should be about 1.5 feet. Line the hole with stones that you can find; which creates a pit, and next start a fire. Collect extra stones from the beach, which will be wrapped up, deposited in the fire, and heated for about 2 to 3 hours. After removing the ashes and coals, distribute the stones evenly along the bottom. Over these hot stones lay wet seaweed.

Quickly the food should be layered on top of the seaweed. Even layers of the food should be added in the following order: clams, mussels, fish, sausage, cheesecloth-wrapped hotdogs, onions, white and sweet potatoes, corn, and finally the lobsters. The food pile should then be encased within a clean, moist cloth. The remaining seaweed should then be placed on top of the entire dish.

Using a wet tarp over the top of it all will steam the food by confining the steam given off by the hot rocks and seaweed. Make sure there are a few gaps to allow the release of pressure. Cook it for at least an hour. You'll know it's done when the potatoes are soft. Serve it with melted butter and lobster crackers.

There are a number of ways to enjoy lobster clambake. You can cook it in a metal can outside, or in a steamer in the kitchen, both ways allowing you to enjoy your own Cape Cod clambake with loved ones. Alternatively, a hired caterer would have specialized ways to prepare the dish, including special gas-heated vessels. If you would prefer, pre-made clambake can be purchased at stores as New Year gift baskets.

The traditional New England clambake has its history dating all the way back to before the first English colonists in the 1600s. The Native Americans belonging to the region of Cape Cod, had a clam bake as part of a sacred celebration. Today you can get a clam bake from the store if you don't want to wait through the whole traditional clam bake. These store bought clam bakes are popular with families, consisting of whole meals, with lobster, corn, potatoes, coleslaw, and of course steamed clams.