The 34th annual Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival returns Saturday and Sunday, offering two days of fresh seafood, live music and coastal celebration on Newport’s historic waterfront.
The festival, named one of Coastal Living Magazine’s “10 Fabulous Fall Festivals on the Coast,” runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days with free admission.
Attendees can sample local seafood favorites including fish tacos, lobster rolls, stuffies, chowder, fried calamari, clams and oysters, along with signature cocktails and beer served under colorful festival tents. Neighboring restaurants and fishermen’s associations will offer their signature dishes, plus options for non-seafood eaters and children. Desserts include fresh donuts, kettle corn and chocolate-covered fruit.
Live music will run continuously throughout the weekend. Saturday’s lineup features The Good Living Band from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Birdstick from 1 to 2:30 p.m., and DudeManBro from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday’s performers include Morgan Treni & The Landscapes from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Kate Virginia Band from 1 to 2:30 p.m., and Nikki & The Barn Boys from 3 to 6 p.m.
Cafe-style seating will be available throughout the wharf. A portion of proceeds from festival bars benefits Child & Family.
The event will be held rain or shine. Only service dogs are permitted inside festival tents, though pets are welcome elsewhere on the wharf.
Organizers encourage attendees to use the Jamestown Newport Ferry or bike to the festival. Bike racks will be located on Market Square near food trucks and the Newport Harbor Hotel parking lot entrance.
For more information, visit Bowen’s Wharf’s website.
