The Alaska Symphony of Seafood is coming back to Seattle this November, ready to shine a light on the industry’s brightest minds and boldest Alaskan seafood innovations. Set for November 19 at the King Street Ballroom, this annual event, hosted by the Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation (AFDF), brings together seafood producers, industry leaders, and food lovers to celebrate the best of Alaskan seafood products. It’s a night of tastings, competition, and camaraderie, where we get a taste of what’s next for Alaska’s seafood sector.
This year’s event promises more of what makes the Symphony special: incredible food, big prizes, and a lineup of categories that keep competitors pushing their creative limits. From “Best New Retail Product” to “Seafood Innovation” and the catch-all “Beyond the Plate” category, the Symphony’s awards highlight products that move beyond the status quo. Each entry embodies the ingenuity and quality that have come to define Alaskan seafood, and the anticipation is already building to see who will take home top honors.
Guests can look forward to sampling each entry during a lively reception and exclusive tasting session. Later in the evening, they’ll settle in for a full dinner and the awards ceremony, with local favorite Chris Egan from KING 5 Seattle guiding the night as master of ceremonies. Egan’s passion for fishing and Seattle roots make him the perfect fit to host, bringing a warm, authentic feel to this industry gathering.
This year, the Symphony welcomes a distinguished panel of judges including celebrity chefs and culinary experts with a keen eye for the kind of seafood products that define Alaskan excellence. Among them are names like Roy Breiman, vice president of food and beverage at Columbia Hospitality, and Rachel Yang, chef and owner of Seattle’s Joule and Revel. Their task will be to elect the “Best of the Best”, while attendees cast their own votes for the coveted “People’s Choice Award,” an honor that often generates as much excitement as the top prizes.
This year, there’s a meaningful milestone to celebrate as well. In honor of SeaShare’s 30th anniversary, a portion of the evening’s proceeds will support this organization’s work in providing high-quality, nutritious seafood to food-insecure communities across the U.S. SeaShare’s partnership with the industry has made a difference in millions of lives, with over 275 million seafood servings donated to date—a remarkable contribution to those in need and a true example of the industry’s commitment to giving back.
The Symphony of Seafood is made possible by an impressive roster of sponsors, with lead support from the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (ASMI), Bristol Bay Regional Seafood Development Association (BBRSDA), and Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). Their support and the enthusiasm of every participant underscore the strength and unity of Alaska’s seafood community.
The Symphony brings:
- Exposure: National and international media coverage.
- Feedback: Receive valuable insights from expert judges.
- Networking: Connect with industry professionals at the Seattle event
So, if you’re in Seattle, grab a ticket, bring your appetite, and join the Symphony in celebrating the people, products, and purpose that define Alaskan seafood. From taste buds to big hearts, it’s an evening dedicated to the best Alaska has to offer, and a reminder of what makes this industry so special.
Read coverage of last year's Symphony here.
