Official Start to Summer, 97.5 WOKQ Chowder Fest in Portsmouth, NH is Back and Better This June

Certain weekends signify a new season. Like Thanksgiving weekend often is the turning point from fall to winter, most people get their tree that weekend.

And the first weekend of June is always the official start to summer, not because it is the first weekend of June...because it is 97.5 WOKQ Chowder Festival presented by Avery Insurance.

The event is jam-packed with people from all over the Seacoast sampling chowder, making bubbles, walking along the Piscatiqua River, and listening to awesome live music.

97.5 WOKQ Chowder Festival, Portsmouth, NH

For the 38th year, restaurants will line up the walkways of Prescott Park in downtown Portsmouth, NH, serving up steaming hot chowder.

The music and chowder tasting kick off at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 7, 2025.

There is always such a variety of chowders, as over a dozen local restaurants add their own spin to the New England classic.

What restaurants are participating in the Chowder Festival in Portsmouth, NH

Buoy Shack – Fresh seafood and coastal charm

Cheese Louise – Inventive, corn chowder twists

Fisherman’s Catch Restaurant – Classic clam chowder from a Wells institution

Old Ferry Landing – A Portsmouth staple with waterfront flair

River House – Nine-time People’s Choice winner serving up seafood chowder

Rye Harbor Lobster Pound – Straight from the harbor to your spoon with their iconic fluffy chowder, lobster bisque

SALT Kitchen & Bar – Last year’s Judge’s Choice winner with a yummy clam chowder

The Library Restaurant – Elegant clam chowder from a historic location

The Prop – Festival comfort food favorites delivering a gluten free chowder

The Wilder – Inventive gastropub flavors

The York River Landing – Hearty, family-style clam chowder

Two-Fifty Market – Locally sourced, bold and fresh clam chowder

When Pigs Fly Sourdough Breads – New in 2025! Local bakery magic is the perfect pairing with all of the chowders of the day

Virgin Oyster Company – Fresh-shucked oysters all day (pre-order yours!)

Get your tickets here to help support Prescott Park Arts Festival for only $20.