People gathered for the 45th annual Seafood Fest on Saturday, September 16 in downtown Point Pleasant Beach. 250 craft vendors were featured as well as local restaurants, live music, and family activities. The festival is held every year by the Chamber of Commerce from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Arnold and Bay Avenue. The festival featured a selection of seafood including crab cakes, shrimp skewers, paella, soups, and bisques, along with many other delicious foods!

The Seafood Festival has been one of Point Pleasant Beach’s top events. Beginning in September of 1975 as an end-of-summer gathering. The festival has grown into the major event that it is today, with over 50,000 people attending. There is a stage set up on the corner of Arnold and River Avenue that plays host to local musicians and other acts. Afterward, there was a fireworks show at Jenkinson’s boardwalk. At the end of the night, free shuttles were provided for guests. The local businesses have a chance to offer many of their summer goods at sale prices.

In addition, the Seafood Fest 5K race event began at 8 a.m. on September 16th. The registration fee was $40 and included a T-shirt & and finisher medal for the first 200 registrants, entertainment, food, and drink.

Around 1 p.m., Shore Fresh Seafood Market owner, Gabe Fattizzi, told The Coast Star that they were already at 650 [oysters] and 400 clams! Business owners say that they had the perfect day for the Seafood Festival, as it was warm and clear skies. 

The Seafood Fest is always a fun end to the summer. It gathers all family and friends together by celebrating with food, live music, and shopping.