2nd Annual Milford Regional Lobster Roll Festival

The Milford Regional Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the Second Annual Milford Regional Lobster Roll Festival, returning to Walnut Beach on Sunday, September 20, 2026. Presented by Comcast Xfinity, this signature event celebrates Milford's proud heritage as the birthplace of the hot buttered lobster roll while showcasing the region's outstanding restaurants, artisans, musicians, and small businesses.

In 1929, Perry's Restaurant in Milford introduced what would become Connecticut's iconic hot buttered lobster roll. While Maine may be known for its cold lobster roll, Milford is where the hot buttered lobster roll was born, making this festival a celebration of one of Connecticut's most delicious culinary traditions.

A Day of Great Food, Music & Coastal Fun

"We're thrilled to welcome thousands of visitors back to Walnut Beach for what promises to be another unforgettable day," said Michael Moses, President & CEO of the Milford Regional Chamber of Commerce. "The Lobster Roll Festival celebrates everything that makes our region special, from our rich history and beautiful shoreline to our incredible restaurants, artists, musicians, and small businesses. It's a wonderful opportunity to showcase Milford and West Haven as premier destinations to visit, dine, and explore."

Festival highlights include:

• Connecticut's best hot buttered lobster rolls 
• Live music throughout the day 
• Local craft beer, wine, and specialty beverages 
• Family activities and entertainment 
• An expanded Artist Pavilion featuring talented local artists and makers 
• Live glassblowing demonstrations by Kinship Glassworks 
• Shopping from unique local vendors and artisans 

Confirmed artisan vendors include Embers of Faith, IzzyBella Emporium, By the Sea Shop, Author Peggy Sue, and Angels of Mine, with additional vendors continuing to be added.

Featured musical entertainment includes Rum Runners, Lost Marbles, and Pretty Nasty, with the festival headliner to be announced soon.

"The Lobster Roll Festival has quickly become one of the region's most anticipated events," said Simon McDonald, Director of Membership & Marketing. "It's a fantastic way to celebrate our coastal communities while supporting local restaurants, artists, nonprofits, and small businesses. We're excited to continue growing this event into an annual tradition that attracts visitors from throughout Connecticut and beyond."

Featured Restaurants & Food Vendors

Festival-goers can enjoy lobster rolls prepared by some of the area's favorite restaurants, including:

• Stonebridge Restaurant (Milford) 
• Nautilus (Milford) 
• The Breakwall (West Haven) 
• Moby Dick's (West Haven) 

Additional food vendors include:

• Hot Smoke Bacon 
• Walnut Beach Creamery 
• Real Fruit Ice Cream 
• Chef Anthony Foster 
• Silver Sands Pizza 
• Doc's Lemonade 
• Wild Sips 
• Paradise Island Food 

Lobster roll tickets are available for advance purchase through the Chamber's website.

VIP Experience

Guests looking for an elevated festival experience can purchase tickets to the Modern Heating & Air Conditioning VIP Tent, featuring:

• Comfortable covered seating 
• Wait service 
• Reserved VIP atmosphere 
• Complimentary parking with the purchase of four or more VIP tickets 

Space is limited, and advance reservations are encouraged.

Family Fun

Families are invited to visit the Yale New Haven Health Little Lobster Lagoon, featuring children's activities provided by The Giggling Pig, along with additional games and family entertainment throughout the festival.

Beer & Beverage Garden

The Steve's Plumbing Beer & Beverage Garden will feature local favorites including Tribus Beer Co., Soundview Brewing, and a variety of wines and specialty beverages provided by Wines and More.