Seafood, Sustainability & Summer Fun: Long Island Seafood Festival Returns August 23–24
WEST SAYVILLE, NY – One of Long Island’s most flavorful summer traditions is back. The Long Island Seafood Festival returns to the Long Island Maritime Museum in West Sayville on Saturday and Sunday, August 23–24, 2025, bringing two days of local seafood, maritime heritage, and waterfront entertainment to the South Shore.
Hosted annually by the Maritime Museum, the festival draws visitors from across the Island to celebrate the region’s deep-rooted connection to the sea. From fresh clams and lobster rolls to craft beer and family-friendly exhibits, the event combines culinary indulgence with coastal education and culture.
This year’s event will once again feature oyster shucking demonstrations, seafood cooking presentations, and informational booths focused on sustainable fishing practices – a major theme for 2025 as awareness grows about the environmental impact of commercial seafood. Local vendors, chefs, and maritime organizations will be on hand to share tips, tastes, and traditions passed down through generations of Long Island watermen.
Live music will fill the air throughout both days, with a lineup of local bands performing under tents near the bay. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets and enjoy the harbor views while dining on fresh catch and regional favorites.
In addition to food and music, the Maritime Museum will open its historic buildings and exhibits to festivalgoers, offering insights into Long Island’s fishing past, boat building history, and the evolution of its coastal communities. Activities for kids, including crafts and interactive displays, make this a well-rounded family outing.
Event Details:
- 📍 Long Island Maritime Museum, 88 West Avenue, West Sayville, NY
- 📅 Saturday & Sunday, August 23–24, 2025
- ⏰ 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. each day
- 🎟️ Admission at the gate; separate fees for food and beverages
- 🚗 Parking available on-site and in overflow lots nearby
Whether you’re a seafood lover, a maritime history buff, or just looking for a lively weekend by the water, the Long Island Seafood Festival delivers a unique slice of Long Island life. With its mix of tradition, education, and entertainment, it’s more than just a food fest – it’s a celebration of the sea.
Long Island Seafood Festival: Your Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the Seafood Festival this year?
A: The 2025 Seafood Festival takes place on Saturday, August 23, and Sunday, August 24.
Q: Where is it held?
A: On the grounds of the Long Island Maritime Museum, located at 88 West Avenue, West Sayville, NY 11796. There is no on-site public parking.
Q: What is the entry fee and what’s included?
A: Admission is $10 per person, free for children under 12. Entry covers free off-site parking, shuttle bus service to and from the museum, and all entertainment.
Q: Can I buy tickets online or pay by card at the gate?
A: Advance tickets are available online [sale ended] for $10 plus processing fees. (Tickets can be purchased at the gate – cash only.)
Q: Where should attendees park?
A: Off-site parking is provided at Baymen Soccer Field (corner of Cherry Ave & Tariff Street, West Sayville). Free shuttle buses run between the lot (and Sayville LIRR station) and the festival.
Q: What kind of food and entertainment can I expect?
A: The festival features raw bars, lobster rolls, seafood trucks, and non-fish options too. Sponsored by Blue Island Oyster Company and Claws Seafood Market, it includes live music on the main stage – all included in admission.
Q: Can I reserve seats for performances?
A: No, seating is first-come, standing room only on the main stage. All performance areas are open to all attendees.
Q: What other activities are available?
A: You can explore the museum’s iconic 1888 oyster sloop Priscilla, enjoy an arts & crafts fair, and engage in children’s activities like face painting, sand art, and pirate-style entertainment.
Q: Can I bring outside food, drink, pets, or coolers?
A: No. No outside food or drinks, bottles, cans, coolers, or pets are allowed on the grounds – except for service animals.
Q: What should attendees know about weather or preparation?
A: As an outdoor August event, plan for warm weather. Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and stay hydrated. While shaded areas exist, attendees are encouraged to dress accordingly.
Q: Where does the festival revenue go?
A: The festival is the museum’s main annual fundraiser. Proceeds support the Long Island Maritime Museum, a nonprofit (501‑C‑3), helping it continue its mission of preserving and educating about Long Island’s maritime history.
Q: How can exhibitors, sponsors, or media representatives participate?
A: Interested sponsors or vendors should contact Terry Lister‑Blitman at the museum. Journalists or media representatives seeking press credentials should also reach out at least one month prior to the event.
