NJ Seafood Festival
The Jersey Shore's premier seafood celebration returns to Belmar for its 36th year. Three days of fresh seafood, live music, and craft beer at Silver Lake Park.
Festival at a Glance
May 15-17
2026 Dates
30+
Food Vendors
FREE
Admission
40,000+
Annual Visitors
About the Festival
The New Jersey Seafood Festival has been a Jersey Shore tradition since 1990, drawing over 40,000 visitors to Belmar each May. What started as a small community event has grown into the region's premier celebration of Jersey Shore seafood and maritime heritage.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Silver Lake, the festival brings together local fishermen, restaurants, and food vendors to showcase the best of what New Jersey waters have to offer. From classic lobster rolls to creative seafood dishes, there's something for every palate.
What to Expect
Fresh Seafood
Over 30 vendors serve the freshest Jersey Shore seafood - from lobster rolls and crab cakes to clam chowder and fried clams. Local fishing boats supply much of the catch.
Live Music
Two stages feature live entertainment all weekend with local and regional bands playing rock, blues, and beach music favorites.
Craft Beer Garden
Sample craft beers from New Jersey breweries in the dedicated beer garden. Local wineries and hard seltzers also available.
Family Fun
Kids zone with games and activities, plus plenty of non-seafood options for picky eaters. The waterfront setting makes it a beautiful day out.
Must-Try Dishes
Lobster Roll
$18-25Maine-style or Connecticut-style - both are festival favorites
Maryland Crab Cakes
$15-20Jumbo lump crab with minimal filler, served with remoulade
Clam Chowder
$8-12New England style creamy chowder loaded with fresh clams
Fried Clam Strips
$12-15Crispy golden strips with tartar sauce
Fish Tacos
$12-16Fresh catch with slaw, lime crema, and salsa
Raw Oysters
$15-20/dozenFresh-shucked with mignonette and cocktail sauce
Getting There
NJ Transit Train
Take the North Jersey Coast Line to Belmar station. Silver Lake Park is a 10-minute walk. Best option to avoid parking and enjoy the beer garden.
Driving & Parking
Municipal lots on Ocean Avenue and 10th Avenue. Metered street parking also available. Arrive early on Saturday as lots fill by noon.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft drop-off on 5th Avenue. Convenient option for groups planning to sample the beer garden.
Distance from Major Cities
Where to Stay
The Inn at the Shore
Boutique Inn
Victorian bed & breakfast in nearby Belmar. Walking distance to the festival and beach.
Spring Lake Inns
Bed & Breakfasts
Charming B&Bs in upscale Spring Lake, just one town south. Beautiful beaches and downtown.
Ocean Grove Hotels
Historic Hotels
Unique Victorian town just north of Asbury Park with several historic hotels and inns.
Vacation Rentals
VRBO/Airbnb
Beach houses and apartments in Belmar and surrounding shore towns. Great for groups.
Pro tip: May is shoulder season, so rates are more reasonable than peak summer. Book early for the best selection.
Book a Vacation Rental
Beach houses & condos near Belmar
Stay close to the festival in a vacation rental. Belmar and nearby shore towns have great beach houses perfect for a weekend seafood getaway.
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Book Your Festival Stay
Make it a weekend! Stay in Belmar or nearby shore towns to enjoy the full festival experience.
Book Your Stay
Find hotels, vacation rentals, and B&Bs in Belmar
Festival weekend hotels book fast - 40,000+ visitors expected
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Flying to the Jersey Shore?
Newark Liberty International (EWR) is closest to Belmar
Need a rental car?
Explore Newark Airport at your own pace
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Tips for Attending
Arrive Early Saturday
Saturday afternoon is the busiest time. Arrive when gates open at 11am for shorter lines and best selection.
Take the Train
NJ Transit stops at Belmar station, a short walk to Silver Lake Park. Avoids parking hassles and lets you enjoy the beer garden.
Bring Cash
While many vendors take cards, cash lines move faster. ATMs on site often have long waits.
Share with Friends
Portions are generous. Come with a group so you can sample more dishes from different vendors.
Explore Belmar
Walk to the beach and boardwalk after eating. It's just a few blocks from Silver Lake Park.
Check the Weather
The festival runs rain or shine, but bad weather thins crowds. Bring layers for cool May evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the NJ Seafood Festival 2026?
The 36th Annual New Jersey Seafood Festival takes place May 15-17, 2026 at Silver Lake Park in Belmar. Hours are Friday 4-9pm, Saturday 11am-9pm, and Sunday 11am-9pm.
Is the NJ Seafood Festival free?
Yes, admission to the NJ Seafood Festival is completely free. You only pay for food, drinks, and any activities you choose to enjoy.
What kind of seafood is served at the festival?
Over 30 vendors serve fresh Jersey Shore seafood including lobster rolls, crab cakes, clam chowder, fried clams, shrimp, fish tacos, oysters, and more. Vegetarian and non-seafood options are also available.
Is the NJ Seafood Festival family-friendly?
Yes, the festival is a family-friendly event with activities for all ages. There's a kids zone with games and activities, and plenty of food options for picky eaters.
Is there parking at the NJ Seafood Festival?
Parking is available in municipal lots along Ocean Avenue and downtown Belmar. The festival is also accessible by NJ Transit train - Belmar station is a short walk to Silver Lake Park.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No outside food or beverages are permitted. The festival features 30+ food vendors and a craft beer garden with local breweries.
Other Food & Drink Events
Explore Belmar
Make the most of your festival trip by exploring everything Belmar has to offer.