Calling all bivalve fans! The annual Wellfleet OysterFest 2019 returns on Saturday, October 19 – Sunday, October 20, 2019. Sip, slurp, shuck-get ready for a weekend of spirited fun at this well-loved Cape Cod festival. Sponsored by SPAT, Shellfish Promotion and Tasting, Inc., as a way to help promote and sustain shellfishing and aquaculture, this annual event attracts thousands of visitors each year. If your an oyster fan and plan to attend the OysterFest this year, book your room early for best availability.
Rain or shine, the main street of Wellfleet, MA is lined with local shellfisherman and women offering plump oysters and clams plucked straight from the ocean. Nearby tents house pop up restaurants serving clam chowder, stuffed clams, lobster rolls, fried seafood, fish tacos, and more. Although no outside alcohol is allowed on the festival grounds, local brews and wines are available for purchase.
In addition to the main event, culinary demonstrations, shucking instruction, wine pairings, and cookbook signings round out the educational portion of the program.
Perhaps the highlight of the OysterFest is the annual “Shuck Off”. Wellfleet commercial shellfishers, local chefs, and rawbar shuckers compete for cash prizes in a timed shuck off judged on speed and presentation. Penalties include broken shells, bloodied fingers, and massacred oysters. Many of the festival’s winners have gone on to compete nationally. Round one begins on Saturday afternoon with the final competition on Sunday when prizes are awarded.
Oysters aren’t the only star of the show. Carefully curated artists and craftsmen showcase their work throughout the event. Everything from fiber arts and metalsmithing to painting, printmaking, and photography compete for your attention. It’s a great time to start your holiday shopping.
No Cape Cod event would be complete without a little musical entertainment. Throughout the weekend you’ll find yourself tapping your toes to bluegrass, rock, and reggae.
Beyond the events happening on main street, you can take a tour of a local shellfish grant, try your hand at pickleball round robin, race to the finish line at the 5K Shuck ‘n Run, or test your mettle at a marine-inspired spelling bee.
A $10.00 entrance fee will gain access to the main events, with additional fees for satellite programs. No fee for children. Free shuttle service transports you from the town beach parking lot ($10.00 per car). Free parking is available at the Wellfleet Elementary School, which is walking distance to the event. Proceeds from OysterFest support SPAT’s educational mission, including college scholarships and community grants.
This is sure to be a weekend you won’t soon forget. Call the Whalewalk Inn and Spa to book your favorite room today.