ABOUT
What To Expect
Get ready for the Great American Lobster Fest – the ultimate seafood celebration on Chicago’s iconic Navy Pier, held the same weekend as the impressive Chicago Air & Water Show.
Sink your claws into fresh Maine lobster flown in daily from the East Coast, sip on ice-cold drinks, browse craft vendors, and jam to live music performances – all while fighter jets and aerial acrobatics thunder overhead in a sky-high spectacle you won’t find anywhere else.
Not into seafood? We’ve got you covered with plenty of non-seafood favorites, from BBQ to sweet treats, to please every palate. It’s a family-friendly festival on the lakefront with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline as your backdrop, setting the scene for an unforgettable summer weekend.
When & Where
August 16-17, 2025
Chicago Air & Water Show weekend
Saturday: 12pm – 11pm
Sunday: 12pm – 8pm
Lobster Meal redemption open from noon – 7pm each night.
Navy Pier
Festival grounds are located at the north & south Navy Pier beer gardens near the east end of the pier.
HOW TO EXPERIENCE LOBSTER FEST
Choose Your Lobster Fest Adventure
Lock in Your Lobster Meal & Save – Guarantee your fresh, full lobster meal by purchasing a Lobster Meal Experience in advance. It’s the best deal you’ll get – prices go up as the event gets closer.
Add More Options at Checkout – Level up your feast with discounted add-ons like lobster rolls, lobster bisque, drinks, and official fest merch – all available when you order your meal online.
Just Show Up – It’s Free to Enter! – Navy Pier is open to everyone. Stroll in and enjoy the sights and sounds, and get your claws on a la carte eats from several on-site food vendors – no ticket required.
Whole Lobster Meals often sell out, and prices increase as the event approaches. Secure yours now while you can! Buy early & save big.
