Lewiston Smelt Festival signals start of summer season

Robert Creenan, Lockport Union-Sun & Journal, N.Y.
·1 min read

May 24—LEWISTON — After a successful return to the local entertainment scene last year, the Smelt Festival is back to kick off the summer season.

The festival runs from 5 to 9 p.m. today — or at least until all the smelt runs out — at Griffon Brewery & Gastropub, 115 S. Water St. The Upward Niagara Chamber of Commerce and Niagara River Anglers organized the festival with support from Anthony DiMino of DiMino's Lewiston Tops and Ken Sciabetta, the Griffon's co-owner.

Each container of fried smelt will cost $5, with DiMino donating the smelt used.

The festival started as a celebration of the angler who capture the smelt in the Niagara River, normally bringing in between 350 and 400 pounds of the small fish. It's a fundraiser for the anglers, with 50% of the 50/50 raffle proceeds going to them.

Last year's event marked a return to the festivities after a four-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Smelt Festival previously was held on the first Friday in May, and was moved to Memorial Day weekend to take advantage of better weather.

Sciabetta will serve as the Smelt King. The '80s cover band Invisible Touch will provide live music from 6 to 9 p.m.