This weekend the Charlestown Chamber of Commerce is hosting their annual Seafood Festival.  Located at Ninigret Park in Charlestown, the event runs today until 11pm, Saturday 11-11 and Sunday 11-10.  Admission is $9 general and kids under 10 are free.  There is a $2 donation to park.  We stopped by this afternoon and have a few tips to offer if you go.

  • Although they have ATM’s on site, you are best to bring cash.  There is a $5 service charge to use the ATM.
  • Daytime guests should bring a hat and sunscreen.
  • Plan on making a day of it! There are lots of booths, raffles, rides and of course, food.

Being on the new side of living here I had not personally been to the festival before.  Having read mixed reviews regarding the food I wasn’t sure what to expect.  What I found was that if you want really good local seafood you can most definitely get it at the festival.  If you want carnival food you can also get that.  If you don’t want seafood there is something for you as well.

We sought out local seafood and were not disappointed.  With great food from local favorites Two Ten Oyster and Matunuck Oyster Bar, you can’t go wrong.  We were most impressed with the Shuckin’ Truck.  Yes, a local food truck just for fresh seafood and raw bar eating.  Oh my gosh you guys! This was awesome.  With farm raised oysters coming directly from Salt Pond Oysters out of Point Judith, the meat was plump and perfect for raw bar eating.  Along with raw bar selections they had fish tacos and lobster grilled cheese.  Yes, lobster grilled cheese.  The staff went out of their way to talk to us about their product and were so friendly.  We also loved seeing the Sunset Farm truck featuring farm raised all natural beef.  Can you say braised short rib grilled cheese on Texas toast?

If you go remember to stop by the Chamber of Commerce booth.  They were so sweet and they have adorable shirts for sale this year!