Virginia-The Oyster Capital of the East Coast

Oysters are celebrated all along Virginia’s Coastal Region including two major annual oyster festivals.

Each November, the lovely town of Urbanna, found on the Rappahannock River, throws the country’s largest and longest-running oyster festival called the Urbanna Oyster Festival. The town’s streets are closed to vehicle traffic and become filled with oyster booths, seafood dishes, music and crafts. The festival highlight is the oyster shucking contest which draws spectators from around the world.

The Official Oyster Festival of the Commonwealth!

Come by BOAT or come by LAND and enjoy everything oyster and more!  The charming Town of Urbanna closes it’s streets for this big celebration of oysters and the heritage that surrounds it.

Over 50 food vendors with of course, OYSTERS!!  Raw, Steamed, Roasted, Rockefeller, Fried, Stewed, but also lots of festival food fare as well.

Unique Arts and Crafts along Community Row takes you the town marina to see historical boats and exhibits on the conservation of the bay, watermen and the oyster industry.

7:00 pm on Friday is the Fireman Parade and 2:00 pm on Saturday is the Oyster Festival Parade, home town fun with the shiners, marching bands, cool cars, beauty queens and floats.

Check out the historic 1766 Old Tobacco Warehouse/Scottish Factor Store museum, learn all about the history of oysters and boats and the Mitchell Map

In the village find the Antique Auto Show, children’s activities and music concerts!

Don’t miss the Oyster Shucking Contest on Saturday behind the Firehouse.  Somebody has to eat those shucked oysters – be in the audience!

Local Virginia Wine Tastings and boutique oyster samples from local Rappahannock River Oysters available for 21 years old and over for $10 on Friday and Saturday.

Admission Fee: Parking Fee $10/Friday and $20/Saturday $2/Water Taxi