Experience South Australia's finest seafood with live cooking, tastings, and family fun at Glenelg's premier seafood festival.
Friday 15 May 2026
to Saturday 16 May 2026
4:00pm - 10:00pm
Jimmy Melrose Park, S Esplanade, Glenelg South SA 5045, Australia
Free
Dive into a celebration of South Australia's freshest and most sustainable seafood at the Sea to Shore Glenelg Seafood Festival. This vibrant event brings together food lovers and families for two days of delicious tastings, live cooking demonstrations, and engaging activities on the beautiful Glenelg foreshore.
Festivalgoers can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes from local vendors, sip drinks at a licensed bar, and listen to lively DJ sets. The event also features curated short film screenings and a marketplace where you can purchase premium seafood directly from producers.
With ambassadors like MasterChef's Callum Hann and dietitian Themis Chryssidis, the festival promises expert insights into seafood preparation and sustainability, making it a perfect outing for parents wanting to inspire their children’s taste buds and curiosity about healthy eating.
The festival runs over two days: Friday 15 May 2026 from 16:00 to 22:00 and Saturday 16 May 2026 from 11:00 to 22:00. Highlights include live cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, panel discussions on seafood industry topics, and interactive masterclasses exploring unique local seafood.
Food vendors offer a diverse range of dishes, from Mediterranean and Filipino seafood to artisanal smoked meats and local delicacies. There’s also a licensed bar and family-friendly entertainment throughout the event.
Visitors can participate in the Sea to Shore Fisherman’s Co-Op marketplace to buy fresh and frozen seafood directly from producers, supporting sustainable fishing practices and local businesses.
The festival takes place at Jimmy Melrose Park, located on the Glenelg foreshore, South Esplanade, Glenelg South SA. The park is easily accessible by car, public transport, and walking paths, with ample parking nearby.
Glenelg is a popular beachside destination with family-friendly facilities, making it an ideal spot for a day out with children. Nearby amenities include playgrounds, cafes, and public restrooms.
For those travelling from further afield, local accommodation providers offer special rates during the festival week, ensuring a comfortable stay close to the action.
This is a free event open to all ages, with some masterclasses requiring paid tickets. Bring a chiller bag if you plan to purchase seafood from the Fisherman’s Co-Op to keep your items fresh.
The festival is co-funded by the City of Holdfast Bay and the Jetty Road Mainstreet Committee, emphasizing community support and sustainability.
Parents should note the event runs into the evening, so plan accordingly for younger children’s needs. The licensed bar is contained within a clear-sided marquee, maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere.
Entry to the festival is free. However, some masterclasses such as “Weird and Wonderful: The Ocean’s Best Kept Secrets” and “Seafood 101: From Ocean to Plate” require booking and cost $70 per adult.
Bookings can be made via the official festival website or by contacting the Events Team. Early booking is recommended as places for masterclasses are limited.
Local businesses along Jetty Road and Marina Pier offer special promotions during the festival week, providing additional value and experiences for visitors.
