ShadFest Returns to Lambertville for its 42nd Year: A Celebration of Art, Fish, Food, and Family Fun
The beloved ShadFest™ is back for its 42nd year, and the entire community is invited to join in the celebration on Saturday, April 26 and Sunday, April 27, 2025. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day—rain or shine—Downtown Lambertville will transform into a vibrant hub of art, music, and culture as it welcomes the return of the American Shad to the Delaware River.
What started as a small local event has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated spring festivals, attracting thousands of visitors to historic Lambertville. Shad Fest™ honors the American Shad’s annual migration from the Atlantic Ocean to spawn in the Delaware River, a natural spectacle deeply rooted in the area’s history and heritage.
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Festival Highlights Include:
– Artisan Vendors: Discover a curated marketplace of hand-crafted art, jewelry, and home goods from talented regional artists, including treasures in Local’s Lane and the popular Home & Garden section.
– Culinary Delights: Satisfy your appetite with a variety of mouthwatering offerings, including traditional and inventive preparations of the festival’s namesake fish, the American Shad.
– Live Music: Enjoy non-stop entertainment from local bands and musicians performing throughout the weekend.
– Family Activities: Participate in kid-friendly fun and interactive experiences designed to entertain all ages.
– Beer Garden: Relax and refresh with a cold brew in the outdoor beer garden featuring local favorites.
Festival-goers won’t want to miss the live Shad Fishing Demonstration hosted by Steve Meserve, a fourth-generation shad fisherman. Demonstrations begin at 1 p.m. each day, weather permitting, at Lewis Island—the site of the only remaining commercial shad fishery on the Delaware River. Visit the festival’s website for an interactive map highlighting key locations and events.
Getting Around:
Lambertville is proud to be a bike-friendly community. A secure, free bike parking lot—monitored by Bike Lambertville volunteers—will be available behind the Justice Center on S. Union Street. Additional unmonitored public bike parking can be found along the scenic Canal Towpath.
Whether you’re a foodie, art lover, music fan, or just looking for a fun day out with the family, Shad Fest™ 2025 has something for everyone. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Lambertville at one of New Jersey’s most cherished festivals.
Check out our Event Guide for more events throughout the year. To submit your event, click here.
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