I’ve been going to the Shediac Lobster Festival since I was a kid, and to this day, it doesn’t quite feel like summer until I’m driving into Shediac and spot the bright lights of the Ferris wheel rising above the horizon.
Over the years, I’ve experienced the festival from just about every angle. I’ve worked behind the scenes, leading the festival’s media relations; I’ve cheered from the sidelines; I’ve devoured my fair share of lobster (and lobster dip); and yes, I’ve even competed in the lobster-eating contest where I had to shuck and crack the lobsters with my bare hands and eat two lobsters in under 3 minutes. I came in second, and I have the scars on my hand to prove it.
A year later, I was on a highway billboard all summer with chipmunk cheeks stuffed with lobster, and I’m damn proud of it.
Whether you’re planning a New Brunswick getaway this July or you’re a local looking for the perfect excuse to hop in the car for a day trip, there’s no better time to visit the Lobster Capital of the World.
The Shediac Lobster Festival is one of my favourite summer traditions, and if you’re going to do it, you might as well do it like a local.
Here are my favourite tips and tricks for making the most of the festival.
Study the Calendar.
The key to making the most of the Shediac Lobster Festival is to review the daily schedule and plan ahead. Every year, when the schedule is released, I block all of the shows, events, foodie events, etc. in my calendar to ensure I don’t miss a thing. You can check out the events calendar here.
Cabane Verte:
When arriving in Shediac, visit Cabane Verte by the big lobster to peruse festival merchandise and buy tickets to events from Saturday, July 4th through Tuesday, July 7th, before the festival grounds officially open on Wednesday. They’re open daily from 2 pm to 8 pm.
Festival Grounds
The festival grounds are open from Wednesday, July 8th to Sunday, July 12th. Entry tickets are $8 for ages 19+, $4 for ages 6-18, and free for children 5 and under. You can purchase Entry Tickets at the door, but you can also buy your Entry Ticket online and skip the line. Purchase here.
Entry to the Festival Grounds gets you access to so many amazing things: musical performances and shows in the P’tite Tent, the culinary stage featuring incredible chefs and culinary demonstrations, La Trappe Restaurant (more on that below), and of course, the fair rides. Though you will still need to buy ride tickets or bracelets.
Campbell Amusements.
Look, I’m a grown adult, and I still love to go on some rides when Campbell Amusements rolls into town and sets up at the festival. This year, Campbell Amusements runs from Wednesday, July 8th to Sunday, July 12th. Hours vary by day, so make sure to check out the website to plan accordingly. Weather may impact opening hours, so make sure to follow the Festival on Facebook.
The “locals’ favourite” and my go-to day to go is opening day, because it’s “toonie” day. Tickets are $2 each, and each ride requires either 1 or 2 tickets. On other days, tickets are $1.50 each, but rides require 3-5 tickets. Do the math; toonie day is where it’s at.
Though the best overall value and bang for your buck is to get the bracelet — regular $40 + tax and fees. But mermaid advice? Catch the early bird pricing for bracelets until Tuesday, July 7th, when they are only $32 + tax and fees.
Catch the Sunset from the Ferris Wheel
Everything about Campbell Amusements at the Shediac Lobster Festival is magical, but even if you’re not a ride person, you should make an exception and go on the Ferris wheel around sunset. It’s one of the most incredible views of the ocean and the beaches, and I just love it. It’s quintessential summer vibes. Plus, you can buy individual tickets and buy just what you need for the one ride.
Lobster Eating Competition
If you’re feeling brave enough (or will do anything for lobster, like yours truly), consider entering one of the Lobster Eating Contests taking place on Sunday, July 5th, Saturday, July 11th, and Sunday, July 12th. Link to register here. Your challenge is to eat two lobsters in a limited time without using utensils, and take it from someone who’s done it: it’s a wild experience! Whoever finishes their lobster the fastest wins.
La Trappe Restaurant
Where do I even begin? I wish La Trappe was a seasonal restaurant open all summer long because oh buoy, it’s a gem. But then again, if we had it all summer long, we wouldn’t appreciate it as much as we do. La Trappe is known for a number of delicious dishes, but the star of the show is, of course, lobster! You can order everything from a full lobster dinner to a lobster roll or poutine, lobster pizza, and the most incredible lobster dip around. And the best part? You’re literally eating in a giant lobster trap.
Corks & Claws
If you’re looking to treat yourself, this is one of my favourite ways to celebrate lobster. You’ll savour eight creative lobster bites from local restaurants, perfectly paired with wine and live music, before dancing the night away at the Ultimate ’80s Dance Party with Pretty in Pink and Big Bad Party Band under La Grousse Tent. Tickets are still available for purchase here.
Snap a Shell-Fie with Mr. Homard
This one is pretty self-explanatory, but it’s a MUST when attending the festival. Mr. Homard is usually on-site most days and at most events, so make sure to go say hello and snap that Shell-Fie! It’ll be a framer!
La Grande Table
A MUST for lobster lovers (and lobster lovers only, because this event does not have a non-lobster alternative). Enjoy a lobster dinner at the longest table you’ll ever see with a few hundred new friends on Main Street, Shediac. La Grande Table is the perfect way to end an incredible festival and takes place on Sunday, July 12th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Tickets are still available for purchase here.
For me, the Shediac Lobster Festival has always been one of those unmistakable signs that summer has arrived. I hope these tips help you experience a little of the magic I’ve loved since I was a kid. Come hungry, stay for the music, soak up the summer energy, and don’t be afraid to get a little butter on your shirt.
I’ll see you on the Ferris wheel!
Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored in any way; I’m just sharing my love of the festival and one of my favourite summer traditions!