Charlestown, Rhode Island, is set to host its landmark 40th Annual Charlestown Seafood Festival, an eagerly anticipated event promising a weekend of exceptional culinary delights, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities at scenic Ninigret Park. This venerable summer tradition, a premier Rhode Island event, draws visitors from across the region, celebrating the Ocean State’s rich maritime heritage and providing a vibrant platform for community engagement. The festival, a cornerstone event for the Charlestown Chamber of Commerce, is designed to offer an immersive experience for all ages, blending gastronomic pleasures with dynamic performances and attractions, solidifying its place among top Summer Festivals RI.
Scheduled to unfold from Friday through Sunday, the Charlestown Seafood Festival will transform Ninigret Park into a bustling hub of activity, rain or shine. Attendees can anticipate a meticulously organized outdoor environment, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood, exploring various vendors, and participating in an array of engaging events. The enduring popularity of this event underscores its significance as a prime summer attraction, firmly establishing it on the Rhode Island festival calendar.
Access to the general daily festivities will be $13.00 for adults, ensuring an affordable entry point for many. Children under the age of 10 are invited to enter for free, making it an accessible option for families. Furthermore, a thoughtful discount of $10.00 is extended to seniors and military personnel with valid identification, recognizing their contributions. While parking is complimentary, a modest two-dollar donation is encouraged, contributing directly to the festival’s operational efforts and community initiatives.
A major draw for thrill-seekers and families alike will be the expansive carnival, managed by the new provider, Cushing Amusements. This exciting addition is slated to open on Friday at noon, offering an afternoon of exhilarating rides and classic games until 5 p.m. A separate admission fee of $35 will grant access to the carnival’s attractions, promising hours of family entertainment for those seeking an adrenaline rush or traditional fairground fun.
The weekend’s highlights are strategically placed to maximize enjoyment, with Saturday evening featuring a spectacular mid-summer fireworks display, set to ignite the night sky at 9 p.m. This dazzling pyrotechnic show is a perennial favorite, drawing large crowds and adding a memorable visual spectacle to the festival’s diverse offerings. Live musical performances will complement the evening, providing a lively soundtrack to the celebrations within the vibrant Ninigret Park atmosphere.
Sunday’s agenda offers its own distinct charm, commencing with a classic car show at 11 a.m., showcasing an impressive array of vintage and custom vehicles. This elegant display provides a different facet of entertainment, appealing to automotive enthusiasts. Significantly, Sunday has also been designated as a ‘rain check’ day for the fireworks display, ensuring that attendees will have an opportunity to witness the aerial spectacle even if inclement weather disrupts Saturday’s plans, demonstrating the organizers’ commitment to a complete festival experience.
Throughout all three days, the festival will resonate with continuous outdoor musical entertainment, included with general admission. Friday’s lineup promises dynamic performances from Doctor Brenda’s Rhythm Army, Whiskey Knights Band, and Mulett. Saturday will feature an eclectic mix with Purple Honey, The Senders, the high-energy Bon Jovi tribute band ‘Raise Your Hands,’ and the New England favorite AC/DC tribute band ‘Dirty Deeds.’ Concluding the weekend on Sunday, attendees can enjoy the sounds of Never Enuff, Eight to the Bar, Fleetwood Heart, and Take it To the Bridge, ensuring a diverse range of genres for every musical taste.
Heather Paliotta, Executive Director of the Charlestown Chamber of Commerce and Director of the Charlestown Seafood Festival, emphasized the event’s profound importance, stating, “We are beyond excited to celebrate our 40th Annual Charlestown Seafood Festival in 2025! This event supports almost everything we do for the community. The Charlestown Seafood Festival is our primary fundraiser.” This quote underscores the festival’s crucial role not only as a celebratory gathering but also as a vital financial engine for numerous community initiatives, highlighting its broader impact beyond mere entertainment.
Marking its fourth decade, the Charlestown Seafood Festival stands as a testament to sustained community spirit and collaborative effort. This family and community-organized event epitomizes Rhode Island’s deep connection to its coastal environment, offering patrons the chance to savor amazing coastal cuisine while enjoying a rich tapestry of entertainment and festivities. It is a heartfelt demonstration of appreciation for the Ocean State’s unique bond with the Atlantic Ocean, Narragansett Bay, and Block Island, encapsulating the essence of summer in New England, and truly offering premier family entertainment.
