Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival

Established in 1954, The Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival has welcomed over half a million visitors, consumed more than 3 million oysters – washed down with champagne and stout whilst listening to some of the best musicians in Ireland. It has played host to over 300 international contenders vying for the World Oyster Opening title. The Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival is the world's oldest Oyster Extravaganza and Ireland's oldest Food Festival. In 2012, over 22,000 visitors attended the city wide events including the National Oyster Shucking Competition, Oyster Hot Spots in local bars, Seafood Trail through the restaurants, Oyster & Sherry tasting, Wine Tasting events, Heritage events, story telling, community parades, the World Oyster Shucking Champs - the Olympics of the oyster world and the Masquerade 'Mardi Gras' style moveable feast incorporating 3 venues, 5 bands in one great party!