Skip to content

Event Details

A participant of the Seacoast Culinary Challenge
The winning ceremony of the Seacoast Culinary Challenge

What’s on the Menu

  • Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
  • Address: The Music Hall, 28 Chestnut Street Portsmouth, NH 
  • Time: 5:30 General Admission Pre Event; 7:00 Show
  • Parking: Please note that parking is not included with event admission; however, convenient public parking is available nearby at the Hanover Street and Foundry Place garages.

Choose Your Culinary Experience

Get ready for a night where flavor meets purpose at the Seacoast Culinary Challenge! Whether you’re looking to soak in the excitement with General Admission or indulge in the ultimate night out with our VIP Experience, your ticket directly supports food insecurity across New Hampshire and Maine.

Culinary Experience Pricing (GA/VIP)

  • $400 ticket:
    Admission to The American Gourmet Expedition (VIP Event) and premiere seating to the show

  • $250 ticket:
    Pre show celebration on Chestnut Street and premiere seating to the show

  • $150 ticket:
    Pre show celebration on Chestnut Street and tier 1 seating to the show

  • $100 ticket:
    Pre show celebration on Chestnut Street and tier 2 seating to the show

  • $75 ticket:
    Preshow celebration on Chestnut Street and tier 3 seating to the show

The VIP experience at the Seacoast Culinary Challenge

Embark on
a Flavorful Journey: The American Gourmet Expedition

Join us for The American Gourmet Expedition, an exclusive VIP event of the Seacoast Culinary Challenge. Experience an extraordinary culinary adventure as we bring the vibrant flavors of America’s most iconic cities to life—right here in one unforgettable evening.
Savor your way through unique, themed culinary stations that capture the essence of four legendary food cities:

Nashville: Southern comfort classics paired with smooth Tennessee whiskey.
• Charleston: Lowcountry delicacies complemented by refreshing craft cocktails.
• New York City: Big Apple-inspired bites served alongside sophisticated New York State wines.
• Chicago: Deep-dish flavors and Windy City favorites matched with the best of Chicago’s craft beer scene.

Each station is carefully curated to showcase authentic tastes and expertly crafted beverage pairings, offering an immersive, gourmet experience.

Limited VIP tickets are available—secure your spot now and treat your palate to an unforgettable evening of culinary exploration and sophisticated sips!

Two woman standing together and smiling at the Seacoast Culinary Challenge event

Come Early for Music, Food & Community on Chestnut Street


Kick off the night with a high-energy pre-show celebration on Chestnut Street! Enjoy music, local bites, and hands-on activities in a block-party-style atmosphere. Discover how the Lighthouse Foundation is driving real change—and how your ticket fuels the fight against food insecurity. Connect, celebrate, and be part of something bigger—before the show even starts.

What’s In Store

Live Culinary Showdown

Think Chopped, but local and live! Watch chefs battle through two high-stakes rounds, turning mystery ingredients into culinary masterpieces — all against the clock.

Student Sous Chefs

Each chef teams up with a high school culinary student, creating powerful mentorship moments while inspiring the next generation of kitchen stars.

YOU Are Part of the Action

Cast your vote for the Fan Favorite, join in interactive surprises, and help shape the night’s big moments.

Star-Studded Judging Panel

A lively mix of chefs, food experts, and community leaders will taste, critique, and crown the winners.