Your Ultimate Guide to ShadFest 2026
43 Years of Art, Fish, Food, and Fun
Planning to visit ShadFest 2026? This guide will help you make the most of this iconic spring festival in Lambertville, New Jersey. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning, you will find everything you need to plan a great weekend.
What is ShadFest?
ShadFest began in 1981 as a small showcase for local artists and has grown into a nationally recognized, award winning festival. It celebrates art, community, and the annual return of the American Shad to the Delaware River.
Each spring, these fish migrate from the Atlantic Ocean back to freshwater to spawn. This natural tradition inspired the festival’s name. Visitors can still see locals fishing on Lewis Island, the last active shad fishery on the river.
Festival Map and Key Locations
The festival spans multiple streets and areas throughout Lambertville, with designated sections for shopping, food, and activities. Key highlights include the Home and Garden area on North Union, the Poster Show and Auction at the First Presbyterian Church gym space, and Shad fishing demonstrations near Lambert Lane and Coryell Street.
Food courts, vendor areas, and parking locations are spread throughout town, so it is helpful to review the map ahead of time and plan your route.
Download full map here!
What To Do at ShadFest
Browse the Artists and Vendors
This is the center of the festival experience. You will find a wide variety of booths featuring hand crafted goods such as jewelry, home decor, and specialty items.
Do not miss the Home and Garden section for carefully selected items for your home. Local’s Lane highlights work created by artists from the Lambertville area.
Tip: Arrive early for the best selection since popular items often sell out quickly.
Explore full list of vendors here!
Enjoy the Food
Food is one of the highlights of the festival. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of options throughout the event. You can try festival favorites from food vendors or visit local restaurants for a full dining experience.
Check out the food lineup and pick your must-try spots here!
Listen to Live Music
Music can be found throughout the festival and at local restaurants. Performances feature local musicians and a variety of styles.
See the full lineup here!
Activities for Kids
ShadFest is a family friendly event with activities for children throughout the festival. Kids can enjoy games, prizes, face painting, and other entertainment.
Special Highlights
Poster Auction
Local artists create and donate original posters for auction. Proceeds support the Jim Hamilton Shad Festival Scholarship Fund.
Bike Parking
Free bike parking is available behind the Justice Center on South Union Street, provided by Bike Lambertville. The monitored area offers a safe and convenient option for visitors arriving by bicycle.
Tip: Public racks along the Canal Towpath are also available but tend to fill up early.
Plan Your Visit
ShadFest weekend attracts large crowds, so planning ahead is important.
Where to Stay
Lambertville offers a variety of inns and nearby hotels. Accommodations fill quickly during the festival.
Find lodging options here!
Where to Dine
Local restaurants are very busy during the festival weekend.
Tip: Make reservations in advance, especially for dinner.
Find the perfect place to eat here!
Tips for a Great Experience
Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Bring cash since some vendors may not accept cards.
Arrive early to find parking and enjoy smaller crowds.
Stay hydrated and take breaks throughout the day.
Explore beyond the main areas to discover hidden spots.
Why You Should Go
ShadFest is a celebration of art, tradition, and community. It offers something for everyone, from unique shopping and great food to live music and family activities.
Find shop locations here!
See You at ShadFest 2026
Come for the art, enjoy the atmosphere, and leave with lasting memories.
For more information, visit www.lambertvillechamber.com/shad-fest