UOG’s Fish Fest to celebrate fisheries, research, and culture

Along with the keleguen guihan competition, talaya throwing and static displays will all be on hand with vendors during the second Fish Fest to be held at the CHamoru Village in Hagatna. The event is being produced by the UOG CIS & Sea Grant’s Guihan for Guahan program.

There is no entrance fee for Fish Fest on February 21, 2026 at CHamoru Village from 10a to 2p. Along with vendors, games, prizes and outreach booths, local fishers will also be selling their fresh catch.

The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant’s Guihan for Guåhan (UOG CIS & Sea Grant) program are inviting the community to celebrate Guam’s rich fishing traditions and local seafood at Fish Fest 2026, set for Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the CHamoru Village in Hagåtña.

The family-friendly event promises to hook residents of all ages with a mix of culture, competition and cuisine centered around one of Guam’s most important resources — fish.

Festivalgoers can look forward to a keleguen guihan competition, a lively talaya (cast net) throwing contest, and opportunities to purchase fresh local catch. The event will also feature partner displays, local vendors, hands-on activities, live music, and giveaways throughout the day.

“Last year’s Fish Fest was a great opportunity for the community to come out and learn about the fishing culture on our island,” said UOG CIS & Sea Grant director Austin Shelton, Ph.D. “This year we look forward to continuing the growth of this event and welcoming partners, vendors and community members to an event that will celebrate something very important to our people, fish.”

Presented under the Guihan for Guåhan program, Fish Fest aims to highlight sustainable fisheries, support local fishers, and strengthen community connections to Guam’s ocean resources. The initiative, housed within UOG’s Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, focuses on promoting responsible fishing practices and food security across the island.

“Fish Fest is all about bringing our community together around something we all value: our fish and fisheries,” said Leilani Naden, lead of the Guihan for Guahan program. “Whether you fish, want to start fishing, or just love eating and learning about local fish, we welcome you to come celebrate with us. Everyone has a place at Fish Fest.”

Community members interested in participating in the keleguen competition, becoming a vendor or learning more can call Sablan at 671-488-8223. Updates are also available on Instagram at @guam_fish, @uogcis, and @uogseagrant.

With fresh seafood, island flavors and cultural traditions on full display, Fish Fest 2026 is shaping up to be a celebration of Guam’s enduring connection to the sea.