Rhode Island Seafood Festival FAQ
The Rhode Island Seafood Festival is an annual event which began in 2011 that brings together the best local purveyors of seafood and other fine fare as well as beer, wine and spirits from Ocean State producers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is this held?
The festival is held in the beautiful waterfront India Point Park in Providence, Rhode Island.
UPDATE: The City of Providence recently changed India St to Portugal Parkway, so depending on what maps you’re using and how quickly they’ve updated, it’s either 258 India St Providence, RI or 201 Portugal Parkway Providence, RI. Regardless of the address, it’s at India Point Park in the Fox Point neighborhood in Providence.
When is the event?
The 2025 festival will take place on Sept. 6 and 7.
What time does it run?
Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is a rain or shine event.
Where can I park?
There is limited street parking available around the park, under the I195 bridge, on South Water Street, and off of Wickenden Street. We do recommend taking public transportation or Uber/Lyft, especially if you’re staying at a hotel in town.
We have made several appeals since 2011 for the City of Providence to open more local parking lots, but have been unsuccessful. We are continuing to lobby the city in an effort to provide our guests with safe off-street parking.
Is there any accessible parking available?
There are a limited number of accessible parking spaces in the public lot across the street from the Hilton Garden Inn by the park. If you require accessible parking, it’s in your best interests to arrive early and secure your space.
How much is admission?
Advance tickets go on sale around Memorial Day Weekend. Follow our social media accounts to make sure you’re alerted when they go on sale!
Admission is cheaper for a two-day pass online in advance than it is to purchase entry for one day at the gate, so make sure you get your tickets before festival weekend for the greatest value.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers admission into India Point Park for one or both days of the festival, depending on the ticket type you purchased. The ticket price includes a full day of live music from local bands, as well as access to our restaurant and art vendors. Food and drink are not included in the ticket price.
I bought my tickets online but I can’t find them. Where are they?
Your tickets will be delivered instantly after purchase. Please search your email inboxes (primary, spam, promotions folders) for messages from orders@eventsmart.com. Failing that, please bring photo ID and any confirmation you may have to our gate staff.
Is seafood the only food available?
Nope! While many of Rhode Island’s best seafood restaurants will be in attendance, we also play host to several non-seafood options. You can find last year’s menu here.
What music will you have, and when do the bands go on?
Our music schedule runs from 12pm Saturday through 5pm Sunday. The band lineup and schedule will be posted closer to the event.
Is it a cash-only event?
Many vendors accept credit and debit cards, but that is up to each vendor.
It is always a good idea to have cash on hand. There will be ATMs at the park, but withdrawal fees are higher than at bank ATMs because a third party provides the service. It’s always a good idea to get your cash ahead of time.
What if it rains?
Grand Festivals events are rain-or-shine. No matter the weather, the event is on.
Can I bring my dog?
As long as your dog remains on a leash and you pick up after it, you’re welcome to bring man’s best friend.
Can I bring outside food/drink/coolers/chairs?
No. For health code reasons, you cannot bring food, drink, or coolers in with you. You may bring blankets, but we provide plenty of seating options both covered and in the open air.
What if I have a question you haven’t answered here?
Send us your questions with this form. Please note that once the event starts we do not have the capacity to respond to guest emails.