COUPEVILLE—Musselfest 2025 brings a weekend of celebration to Coupeville from March 8–9, honoring nearly four decades of history and love for mussels. Musselfest is hosted by the Coupeville Historic Waterfront Association (CHWA) in partnership with Pacific Seafood–Penn Cove. Proceeds support town preservation efforts as well as scholarships for the Boys & Girls Club and Coupeville High School STEM program.
The annual event, which began as a chef demonstration by Penn Cove Shellfish in 1986 at the Captain Whidbey Inn, has since grown into a beloved tradition with events occurring throughout the historical town all weekend.
The festivities begin Friday evening with the Mussel Mingle, a ticketed event featuring live music from Ike and the Old Man, alongside wines, beers, and ciders from local purveyors. (sold out)
Saturday and Sunday, attendees can enjoy a variety of events, many of which are free, including:
- Live Music: Free performances in two 21+ beer gardens and on Front Street, running from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
- Penn Cove Mussel Farm Boat Tours: A 45-minute tour offering an up-close look at the famous mussel rafts (ticket required; service dogs only).
- Chowder Tasting Contest: Sample mussel chowders crafted by local chefs (ticket required; limited availability for day-of sales). Some locations will also offer chowder for non-ticket holders.
- Cooking Demonstrations: Hourly sessions in the Rec Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., showcasing both traditional and new mussel recipes (free).
- Mussel Tussle: A new chef competition debuting this year, where two chefs go head-to-head to create the most innovative mussel dish (free to watch). Saturday and Sunday at noon.
- Mussel Eating Contest: A fan-favorite challenge where participants race to eat three cups of mussels (registration required, $10, day-of sign-up in the Rec Hall at 3 p.m.).
- Family-Friendly Fun: Kids can enjoy fishing off the pier, arts and crafts, and a Treasure Hunt ($15) that leads participants through Coupeville’s unique shops.
- Local Food Vendors: A variety of food options, from paella and hot dogs to curly fries, pie, and sweet treats.
Parking and Accessibility: Parking is available for $10, with proceeds benefiting a safe and sober senior class graduation. Free parking is also available at Coupeville school lots, with a continuous shuttle to and from the Historic Downtown area. Handicapped parking is located on Coveland and in front of the Masonic Lodge.
For a full schedule, participating vendors, and event details, visit www.PennCoveMusselfest.com.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
