Essex Annual Shad Bake

Fifty-seven years ago, the Rotary Club of Essex introduced the quintessential New England shoreline tradition; a dining experience known as a shad bake.  Yankee Magazine has called it one of the “Top 20 Summer Events”.   The Connecticut River Museum is happy to be able to host this classic New England event. For shad lovers, the lure is the secret ingredients and the authentic method of preparation and cooking handed down from Connecticut natives.  Done in front of the fire, the fish picks up the smoky flavor of the fire with the seasoned oak boards that it is cooked on.  Add to this delicacy homemade potato salad, tossed green salad, and apple pie from Lyman Orchards and you have got yourself a gourmet meal!  Don’t care for shad?  The event offers BBQ chicken and hot dogs.  Share a piece of Connecticut and Essex history with your friends and family. There will be live music and traditional games for the kids!

$30 per adult, $10 per child