Hampton Beach Seafood Festival 2024 in New Hampshire

The Hampton Beach Seafood Festival is set to return in 2024 for its 35th year, promising a delightful weekend filled with culinary delights, entertainment, and shopping. This event, which takes place annually in early September, is one of the most anticipated festivals in New England. Whether you're a foodie looking to sample the best seafood in New England, a music lover eager to enjoy live performances, or a shopper on the hunt for unique crafts, this festival offers something for everyone.

Activities and Attractions

Events

One of the festival's highlights is the lobster roll eating contest, sponsored by McGuirk's Ocean View, where contestants will compete for a $1,000 prize. The festival features continuous live culinary demonstrations by the region's top chefs, presented by Wicked Bites. These demonstrations will take place at the culinary tent in front of the Hampton Chamber of Commerce Beach Office. Additionally, the festival will showcase a spectacular fireworks display, courtesy of the Hampton Beach Village District, marking the end of summer with a bang. Art enthusiasts can enjoy the Art Gallery in the Sand, coordinated by Live Freely, where over a dozen artists will create and display their work right on the beach. For those looking for some friendly competition, the Cornhole Tournament, sponsored by The Brook and coordinated by Skull-It Cornhole, returns this year. Runners can participate in the Seafood Fest 5K, organized by Millennium Running, which includes festival entry for participants.

Music

In addition to the culinary delights, there will be two stages featuring non-stop live entertainment throughout the weekend. More than 15 bands will perform various genres including blues, country, rock, and jazz.

Shopping

Shopping enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy, with over 70 local artisans showcasing their crafts and products. From walking sticks to hot sauce and home decor, there's something for every personality. This is a perfect opportunity to kick off your holiday shopping while enjoying the beach atmosphere.

Food

According to the organizers, over 50 local food vendors will set up along Ocean Boulevard, offering a diverse selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Attendees can savor New England's famous lobster, shrimp, and clams, along with unique festival foods like the "Bloomin' Onion" and fried ice cream.

Schedule

Friday, September 6

The festival kicks off at 12 pm and runs until 9 pm. Performances include The Shakerz from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm, Scott Brown and the Diplomats from 4 pm to 6:30 pm, and the Dave Macklin Band from 7 pm to 10 pm. Simultaneously, Rockspring will play from 4 pm to 6 pm, followed by Wildside from 7 pm to 9 pm.

Saturday, September 7

The festival opens at 10 am and closes at 9 pm. Highlights include Joppa Flatts from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, Overtone from 2 pm to 4 pm, Down by Ten from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, and BAILOUT from 7 pm to 10 pm. Additional acts include Bryson Lang, The GemsTones, Mychael David, and Panorama.

Sunday, September 8

On the final day of the festival doors open at 10 am and close at 6 pm. The day features the 5k Awards and Art Show Ceremony from 10 am to 11:30 am, Matty and the Penders from 12 pm to 2:30 pm, and Redemption from 3 pm to 5 pm. The Rockin Daddios perform from 11 am to 1 pm, followed by the Lobster Roll Eating Contest from 2 pm to 3 pm, and Rico Bar and the Jumpin Jive Review from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm.

Ticket Prices and Parking

Admission is $10 per day, with a 20% discount available for those purchasing tickets online before August 1, 2024. A weekend pass, which grants entry for all three days, is available for $30. Parking can often be a concern at large events, but the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival offers convenient solutions. There are several free parking lots with a complimentary shuttle service to the festival grounds. Shuttle services start at 5 pm on Friday and at 9 am on Saturday and Sunday.

Location and Infrastructure

The festival is held on Ocean Boulevard in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, stretching from the Marine Memorial to H Street. This prime location along the beach provides a scenic backdrop for the festivities. Located just 70 miles (112 km) from Boston, MA, the town of Hampton is easily accessible via I-95, making it a convenient destination for attendees from various parts of New England.

History of the Festival

The Hampton Beach Seafood Festival has a rich history, having been established 35 years ago. Initially created to extend the tourist season beyond Labor Day, the festival has grown significantly over the years. It now attracts around 300,000 visitors annually.