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About Our Auction
2025 Stonington Lobster Trap Tree Buoy Auction
& Nutcracker Trail Auction
178 of 460 Hand-Painted Buoys Available for Sale!
Own a piece of history and support this special community project by purchasing a one-of-a-kind, hand-painted buoy. Each buoy includes a Certificate of Authenticity.
Please note: The photographs shown were taken before the buoys were displayed on the Lobster Trap Tree for a six-week period. While the buoys are securely fastened, minor scratches or nicks may occur. After the tree is taken down in mid-January, each buoy will be inspected. If any sustain significant damage, their photos will be updated on this website. Minor wear is to be expected and does not invalidate auction bids.
If you’re concerned about potential weathering or wear, we recommend attending our in-person inspection event instead of bidding online. This will take place on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 10 AM–12 PM at The Velvet Mill Studios in Stonington Borough. Admission is free.
There will be a private, ticketed event from 12 PM - 2 PM. Attending the private buoy auction event will be fun and festive but will not give you any sort of bidding advantage. If you are the successful bidder however, you will be able to take home your buoy that afternoon!
How Bidding Works
All bidding takes place online through this platform. You may choose one of two options:
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Exact Bid: Enter a specific dollar amount (minimum $100, or at least $10 more than the current bid).
- Proxy Bid: Enter your maximum bid, and the system will automatically increase your bid in $10 increments as needed until your limit is reached.
If you have questions or need assistance, please call 401-596-7761.
** NOTE** This is a legally binding bid and payment is required within 72 hours if you are the winner.
These buoys make a great gift or beautiful decoration for your home or office. They can be made into beautiful lamps! Proceeds from this auction are reinvested back into the project to help cover some of the $50,000+ annual up-front costs to produce the tree.
For more information about the internationally recognized and locally loved Stonington Lobster Trap Tree please visit:
LobsterTrapTree.com
** Be Advised** The OCCC has the right to negate any bids from a previous participant who was the successful high bidder but did not honor their commitment and pay our non-profit org for their buoy. Also, all bidders must also submit their FULL NAME, EMAIL ADDRESS and PHONE NUMBER. Neglecting to fill in any of these categories will also nullify your bid.
About Ocean Community Chamber of Commerce
Is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the region’s economy and the quality of life for residents in Southern RI and Southeastern CT. It provides valuable marketing and revenue generating business programs including a two state gift certificate program that supports small businesses with nearly $300,000 in revenue. The Ocean Community Chamber of Commerce administers the Town of Stonington and Borough of Stonington ARPA grant programs for small business. It also produces numerous free community events in Stonington including Stonington Lobster Trap Tree, River Glow, the Pawcatuck River Duck Race and a summer Sunset Movie series.
Sponsors
Sponsored By
