Tray of fresh oysters on ice with lemon wedges

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Connecticut’s Seafood Festivals 2026

last updated: June 2026

New England is known for mouthwateringly fresh seafood, and Connecticut is right in the heart of it. The summer and early fall bring annual seafood festivals and events to towns statewide, not just along the shoreline. Here are just some of them.

Sheffield Island Lighthouse Clambake
July 7 - August 25
Every summer, the Seaport Ferry in South Norwalk carries hundreds of hungry passengers to the historic 1868 Sheffield Island Lighthouse for the Norwalk Seaport Association's famous Tuesday Night Clambakes. A true New England dining experience, the evening allows participants to dine in the festive tented pavilion on the Lighthouse lawn, with tours of the Lighthouse included in the cost.

Annual Milford Oyster Festival
August 14 & 15
In addition to mouthwatering seafood, this year’s festival will have many of the areas that festival-goers look forward to every year including arts and crafts on the Green, Main Street, the non-profit area, car show, canoe and kayak races, food, and entertainment.

Norwalk Oyster Festival
September 11 - 13
Enjoy a variety of entertainment including rides, games, a craft beer tent with more than 40 beers, and the expansive Arts & Crafts Pavilion with more than 100 artisans and crafters. Plus, an international food court, an oyster slurping contest and much more.

Niantic Bay Oyster Festival
September 19
With all proceeds going to the Miracle League of Southeastern Connecticut, this festival is a good time for a good cause. Enjoy local oysters, food vendors, beer sampling, live music, entertainment and more at this annual Niantic tradition.

Milford Regional Lobster Roll and Music Festival
September 20

After a successful first year in 2025, the Milford Regional Chamber of Commerce plans to host the event again in September at Walnut Beach, celebrating Milford’s proud place as the birthplace of the hot buttered lobster roll.