Parking & Frequently Asked Questions

We're thrilled you're planning your visit to our delicious celebration of food, fun, and community. To help you plan a fantastic day, we've answered some of the most frequently asked questions below. Whether you're curious about tickets, weather contingencies, or what to bring, we've got you covered!

Before diving into the details, we want to emphasize that all proceeds from the Great Bay Food Truck Festival go right back into the community! Funds support local programs and services provided by Stratham Parks & Recreation and the Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce. That means your ticket helps fund youth activities, community events, small business support, and more—making a direct impact right here where we live, work, and play.

We strongly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance. Last year, tickets sold out before the gates even opened, and prices increase on the day of the festival. So don't miss out - grab your tickets today!

Now, let's get to the nitty-gritty and ensure you have everything you need for a memorable experience at the Great Bay Food Truck Festival!

PARKING

Please Note: Reserved Parking does NOT include any tickets to the Great Bay Food Truck Festival.

Premium Parking:

70 Premium Parking spots are located in the main parking on Portsmouth Ave and in front of Stratham Hill Park and are available to purchase for $40.  Premium parking may only be purchased as an add-on to admission. It cannot be purchased separately.

Non-Reserved Parking:

There is plenty of parking available at the Festival.  PLEASE NOTE: Most onsite parking is uneven and on grassy surfaces. To help with traffic flow and safety, you WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to drop off participants at the main entrance of Stratham Hill Park.

  • Handicapped Parking:  The main lot at Stratham Hill Park will be designated handicapped parking. Proper signage will need to be displayed to park in the handicapped lot.

  • On-Site Parking:  Free onsite parking is offered at the end of Jack Rabbit Lane in the open field behind Stratham Hill Park (Gordon Barker Town Forest.) This parking area is the closest to the event but on grassy and uneven surfaces. Parking will not be allowed on Jack Rabbit Lane.

Parking will be allowed on Rt. 33 Eastbound ONLY in designated spots. Please note Sandy Point Road will be closed to through traffic, and parking will not be allowed. Parking on Rt. 33 Eastbound ensures the safety of our participants and does not have to cross a busy state highway.

If you know the trails at Stratham Hill Park, you will find it best to park at Stratham Memorial School, 39 Gifford Farm Road. This lot will have access to the event via the Tote Road trail. This lot is less than .50 miles from the entrance gate.


FAQs

Can I buy tickets the day of the event?

  • Ticket prices increase on the day of the festival, and they sold out before gate entry last year, so we don't recommend it. 

What does my ticket include?

  • Your ticket includes admission to the festival, where there will be entertainment, artisan vendors, a beer garden, and MORE! Your festival ticket DOES NOT include reserved parking OR a reserved picnic table- those are available for an additional fee (while supplies last).

Will food & beverages be included in the cost of the ticket?

  • No. Food and non-alcoholic beverages can be purchased at the trucks.

  • For those 21+, alcoholic beverages can only be purchased and enjoyed inside the Beer Garden.  You must have your ID!  Alcoholic beverages purchased outside the Festival will not be allowed in.

My plans have changed. Are tickets refundable?

  • All tickets are non-refundable.

Do I need a ticket for my children?

  • Children 4 and under are free to attend. 

What if it’s raining?

  • This event is rain or shine. There is no rain date. Please check the map and this website for any updates.

What should I bring?

  • Your smartphone with your ticket ready to be shown (and a screenshot as backup!).

  • Your ID! You'll need it to purchase beverages at the Muddy River beer garden (21+ only).

  • Feel free to bring folding chairs, a cooler (non-alcoholic), and blankets to relax and enjoy the festival in Stratham Hill Park.

  • Be prepared for potential rain! While we have some covered areas, please bring rain gear and appropriate footwear if needed.

  • If you reserved a picnic table, your name will be on it. Look for the reservation name on the tables.

What shouldn’t I bring?

  • Pets – Unfortunately, no pets are allowed on the festival grounds.

  • Alcoholic beverages from outside the festival.

  • Cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and cigars are not permitted inside the festival area.

  • You will receive a wristband upon entry. Please wear it at all times. You will need your wristband to re-enter the festival if you leave.

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