A Coastal Celebration Like No Other: The 76th Shediac Lobster Festival
21 Apr 2025
The Shediac Lobster Festival (Festival du Homard de Shediac) is back for its 76th edition, promising an unforgettable celebration of Atlantic Canada’s iconic crustacean. Following last year’s remarkable success, organizers are refining every detail to deliver a festival that honors tradition while introducing fresh and exciting experiences for all ages. Once again, the event will showcase the vibrant spirit of Acadian culture through delicious food, lively music, and a strong sense of community.
Highlights of the 75th Anniversary Shediac Lobster Festival
The 2024 Shediac Lobster Festival welcomed over 40,000 attendees who came together to savor some of the region’s finest seafood. Thanks to longtime partner The Shediac Lobster Shop, an impressive 2,000 pounds of lobster was served throughout the event. Festivalgoers were treated to outstanding performances by acclaimed acts such as Salebarbes, Les Hay Babies, Signal Hill, The Mellotones, and Melanie Morgan. Adding to the excitement, the new Mixbus—a mobile stage showcasing local and emerging artists—brought a fresh, spontaneous energy to the festival.
A key enhancement last year was the introduction of the ANBL Safe Ride program, which provided free shuttle service on July 12th and 13th, allowing 1,150 attendees to enjoy the evening concerts responsibly. One of the festival’s most meaningful moments was the re-signing of the twinning agreement between Shediac and Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, commemorating over 50 years of cultural and culinary exchange. The occasion was celebrated in the Grousse Tent with performances by Cajun band T’Monde and local favorite Hert LeBlanc, while The Kilted Chef prepared authentic gumbo alongside Louisiana delegates.
Other standout highlights included the return of Campbell Amusements, an expanded festival ground featuring a brand-new Culinary Stage with live demonstrations from top chefs, and the inaugural Lobster Roll Challenge, where Chef Jordan Holden of Atelier Tony in Dieppe claimed the top prize. Food enthusiasts were also treated to unforgettable culinary experiences such as Corks & Claws, Ales & Tails, and The Succulent at Parlee Beach, hosted by celebrated chefs Dennis Prescott and Gene Cormier. To close the festival on a high note, La Grande Table brought over 400 guests together on Main Street for a communal lobster feast, creating a truly memorable finale.
A Maritime Tradition Continues: The 76th Shediac Lobster Festival
From July 5th to 13th, 2025, the vibrant spirit of the Shediac Lobster Festival will once again take over the town. This beloved annual tradition, celebrated for its fresh seafood, warm Acadian hospitality, and dynamic entertainment, remains a summer highlight in New Brunswick. With a full lineup of events for all ages, attendees can expect a week filled with unforgettable dining experiences, electrifying performances, and exciting family-friendly activities.
Once again, the festival will serve up thousands of pounds of fresh lobster, made possible through partnerships with local seafood suppliers. From classic lobster dinners to creative, lobster-inspired dishes, there will be endless ways to savour this regional favourite. The highly anticipated Lobster Roll Challenge is expected to return, bringing together top chefs from across the Maritimes to compete for the ultimate title.
An Incredible Lineup of Musical Talent
Live performances continue to be a cornerstone of the festival, and this year’s lineup promises to be just as exciting. Organizers plan to welcome back fan favorites while also showcasing fresh talent that celebrates the region’s diverse musical heritage. With multiple stages spread across the festival grounds, attendees can enjoy a dynamic mix of folk, rock, and the vibrant sounds of Acadian and Cajun music.
Elevated Culinary Experiences
Building on the tremendous success of last year’s culinary experiences, the festival’s fine dining and tasting events will return with even greater flair. Ales & Tails and Corks & Claws have become unmissable highlights, while The Succulent at Parlee Beach demonstrated that Shediac is home to exceptional high-end dining. This year, even more renowned chefs are expected to join the lineup, crafting exquisite menus that highlight the finest flavours of Atlantic Canada’s culinary scene.
The Culinary Stage
The Culinary Stage, introduced last year, added an exciting new element to the festival with live cooking demonstrations from acclaimed chefs like Dennis Prescott and The Kilted Chef. This year, festivalgoers can look forward to even more interactive demonstrations, showcasing both traditional and innovative ways to prepare lobster and other seafood delicacies.
Ales and Tails
This event is a dream come true for craft beer lovers and seafood enthusiasts alike. Guests will have the chance to sample a handpicked selection of New Brunswick’s top craft beers and ciders, perfectly paired with delicious lobster bites. Held at the Shediac Multipurpose Centre, it’s an event you won’t want to miss. Tickets can be purchased here.
Corks and Claws
An elevated experience for wine connoisseurs, this event invites guests to indulge in eight distinct lobster creations, each expertly crafted by local chefs and paired with select wines. Set against the ambiance of live musical performances, it offers a truly immersive culinary experience. The event will be held at the Shediac Multipurpose Centre, with tickets available for purchase here.
Pretty in Pink and The Mellotones: Your Ultimate 80s Dance Party!
Get ready to dance, sing, and immerse yourself in the magic of the 80s at Pretty in Pink and The Mellotones: Your Ultimate 80s Dance Party! This electrifying night invites you to don your best retro outfit and hit the dance floor for a fun-filled, high-energy celebration.
Pretty in Pink, an eight-piece band full of energy, will take you on a trip down memory lane with an exciting set of 80s hits, sure to have you singing and dancing all night. Alongside them, The Mellotones will bring their incredible mix of R&B, funk, and soul, lighting up the night with their vibrant horns, smooth vocals, and irresistible grooves inspired by the golden age of Motown and disco.
Whether you’re a fan of 80s music or simply looking for an unforgettable night out, this event promises great vibes, nostalgic tunes, and endless dancing! Tickets are available here.
La Grande Table
The festival’s grand finale, La Grande Table on July 13th, brings together hundreds of guests for a communal dinner set along Main Street, celebrating the essence of Shediac’s vibrant seafood culture. This festive feast offers a traditional lobster dinner, creating a sense of community and honoring Shediac’s rich culinary heritage. Tickets for this unforgettable experience can be purchased here.
Celebrating Culture and Community
The festival has always been about more than just great food — it’s a vibrant celebration of Acadian heritage, local traditions, and the strong sense of community. Last year’s twinning ceremony with Breaux Bridge was a standout moment, and this year may bring even more exciting collaborations with cultural groups and visiting delegations. The festival will feature traditional music, storytelling, and interactive experiences like Acadian cooking workshops, further enriching its cultural offerings.
Fun For The Whole Family
The festival’s evening concerts and culinary experiences may attract foodies and music lovers, but the daytime activities are all about family fun and enjoyment for visitors of all ages. Longtime partner Campbell Amusements will be on hand with exciting rides and carnival games. This year, organizers are also adding more interactive experiences for children, including lobster-themed crafts, educational displays, and lively performances tailored to younger audiences.
The Spirit of Atlantic Canada’s Lobster Culture
The Shediac Lobster Festival is one of New Brunswick’s most eagerly awaited events, attracting visitors from across Canada and beyond. With its perfect combination of outstanding cuisine, live entertainment, and deep cultural roots, the festival embodies the region’s passion for lobster and community. The 76th edition promises to build on previous successes, delivering an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
For those seeking an authentic taste of Atlantic Canada, the festival offers a chance to savor world-class seafood, immerse in vibrant Acadian culture, and enjoy some of the finest entertainment the region has to offer. Whether cracking into fresh lobster, dancing to live music, or exploring the talents of local chefs and artisans, visitors are guaranteed an extraordinary experience.
Craig Silva
Craig is a passionate and seasoned travel, food, and lifestyle writer, whose words paint vivid pictures of the world's most captivating destinations. His work not only inspires others to embark on their own adventures but also fosters a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our world. He captures the essence of each locale, offering readers a glimpse into the cultures, landscapes, cuisine, and experiences that make travel so enriching. Craig is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) and the International Travel Writers Alliance (ITWA). If you are a PR agency or brand and would like Craig to review a travel destination, vehicle, restaurant, product or service, please send him an email.
