The Rotary Club of Essex and The Connecticut River Museum partner to bring you a classic Spring ritual of the Connecticut Shoreline- the Shad Bake. Now in its 61st year, the Rotary Club of Essex has maintained this important culinary tradition for decades.

Expertly de-boned, nailed on oak planks and cooked around a smoldering bonfire, the shad takes on a smokey flavor and will be accompanied by many sides, as well as pie from Lyman Orchards. Not a fan of shad? Hot dogs and barbecue chicken will be available as well. A cash bar will offer several different varieties of beer and wine, as well as nonalcoholic beverages.

In addition to great food and drinks, several talks and displays about the history of the Connecticut River shad fishery will be offered throughout the afternoon. A shuttle service will run from Essex Town Hall and the Pratt House (both on West Avenue) to the Museum to ease parking congestion. Come down to the River, eat some shad, learn about this important local culinary custom and have a blast!

Shad Bake Tickets can be purchased online, at the Museum and at Bob’s Centerbrook Package Store.

Purchase online: https://shop.ctrivermuseum.org/collections/events