Why Everyone’s Talking About the 2026 WOKQ Chowder Festival

For a lot of people along the Seacoast, the WOKQ Chowder Festival is one of those “you know summer is coming” kind of events.

And honestly? This year is extra fun for me because it’ll be my first one. Get your tickets here

I’ve already had people stop me at remotes, events, and even in random grocery store conversations asking, “Wait until you experience Chowder Festival.” So now I’m officially counting down too.

The festival runs Saturday, June 6th from 11:30 a.m. until the chowder runs out, which honestly might be the most New Hampshire sentence ever written.

The event takes over Prescott Park along the waterfront with local restaurants from all over the Seacoast serving up their best chowders while thousands of people walk around tasting, judging, debating, and trying to decide who deserves the legendary Golden Ladle award.

And this year’s lineup sounds stacked.

Restaurants expected to participate include favorites like Old Ferry Landing, SALT Kitchen & Bar, The Library Restaurant, The Wilder, River House and Water View Grill, and more.

And it’s not just classic clam chowder either.

You’ll find everything from seafood chowders and spicy chowders to creative twists and local recipes that restaurants have probably been perfecting for months hoping to win people over.

READ MORE: That Baby Animal You Found in New Hampshire Probably Isn’t Abandoned

The coolest part?

Even if chowder somehow isn’t your thing, the entire park still turns into this giant waterfront summer kickoff party with music, family activities, lawn games, ice cream, raffles, and Seacoast vibes everywhere.

Advanced tickets are definitely the move because this event draws huge crowds every year and helps support the Prescott Park Arts Festival, one of the most iconic summer traditions in New England.

So now the real question becomes…

Who’s got the best chowder in New Hampshire?

Apparently I’m about to find out. Need tickets?  Get them in advance right here