Smack Shack Annual Crayfest 2023

Smack Shack’s annual North Loop block party, Crayfest, will be held Saturday, August 5, from 12:00pm – 7:00pm. Smack Shack welcomes guests to come and enjoy the all-you-can-eat crayfish boil, burgers, and brats, plus all-you-can-enjoy beer, hurricanes, and live music from local bands.

The annual block party celebration draws over 2,000 people to the North Loop for a day of fun, food, and live music. This year’s musical guests include returning rock stars Viva Knievel, Steeling Dan and a new opener, The Vibe. It wouldn’t be Crayfest without the crayfish eating contest that takes place at the event. Pre-qualifying rounds begin in July at several local breweries including Fulton, Indeed and Modist. All contestants receive a free Crayfest ticket and Smack Shack swag for participating in the prelims. Four winners from each brewery will move on to the final contest at Crayfest. The preliminary contest dates will be announced on social media for guests to sign-up and participate in the coming month.

“We are grateful to be in business for the last ten years and able to host this event every year in the North Loop,” said Kevin Fitzgerald, Co-owner of Smack Shack. “This event lets us celebrate and enjoy the Minnesota summer.”

Smack Shack will feature their signature crayfish boil at Crayfest. This fan favorite is served with crayfish (or crawfish) corn on the cob, andouille sausage, and potatoes. For less adventurous eaters, hamburgers and brats are also available. Attendees may also enjoy a selection of local beer, cider or Smack Shack’s signature cocktail, the Hurricane, made with rum, pineapple, orange and cranberry juices, and a splash of grenadine.

Smack Shack is dedicated to serving sustainable seafood. “We partner with local companies to fish out the invasive species from Minnesota Lakes,” said Josh Thoma, co-owner of Smack Shack. “We continue to source and use sustainable, farm-raised crayfish to keep the tradition and the Crayfest celebration going each year.”

Tickets for Crayfest are $60 in advance ($95 at the door). New this year is a Crayfest 6-pack for $300. Tickets can be purchased online.