CANADA'S BIGGEST RAW BAR IS BACK
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2 & SATURDAY OCTOBER 3, 2020
Join oyster farms from all over the Maritimes, plus special guests from around the world, in a festive environment with loads of just-shucked oysters plus more great Nova Scotian seafood and drinks. It's an unforgettable shellebration.
2019 SCHEDULE
There are 3 tasting sessions. Each last 3 hours long and include sampling from all oyster farms until oysters run out. Shucking competitions will take place on the main stage Saturday afternoon (amateur) and Saturday evening (pro). The festival happens on the Salter Street parking lot on the Halifax Waterfront. The site is tented but can get chilly by the water. Bring a sweater and your wellies!
Friday Oct 2, 7-10pm
Saturday Oct 3, 12-3pm
Saturday Oct 3, 7-10pm
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SEA FARMERS
The oyster fishery is utterly fascinating and deeply personal, with many of the sea farmers being family businesses involving several generations. From sons and daughters to grandparents, these hard-working people are the heart of the east coast oyster legend—and Halifax Oyster Fest. The sea farmers at the festival have spent years growing every single oyster they serve, and they love sharing stories.
FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE
The Halifax Oyster Festival is Canada’s largest oyster festival. Taking place on the beautiful Halifax waterfront, it’s a unique gathering of oyster producers and heaven on earth for people who love eating oysters. Whether you’re an oyster fanatic or are just bi-valve curious, you’ll taste a wide variety of oysters and get a rich immersion in oyster culture where local sea farmers and their families shuck for you. Think of it like a beer fest, but for oysters. Cruise around to the different oyster farm booths, meet farmers and their families and taste their products. Shucking demos and contests will be activated on the main stage. Live music each night.
VOLUNTEER
Do you love helping out at awesome local events like Halifax Jazz Festival and Nocturne? Well you need to add Halifax Oyster Festival to your volunteer bucket list! Learn more and sign up here.
NOVA SCOTIA OYSTER SHUCKING CHAMPIONSHIP
Oyster opening is a spectator sport at the festival. Both amateur and pro shuckers compete to open a plate of oysters quickly and cleanly, with cash and bragging rights for the prize. David Burns (Maisy's Pearl Hamilton) hoisted the trophy in 2019 with a time of 1:25.88. Will you beat him this year? If you'd like to try, sign up below.
FOOD AND DRINK ON SITE
Oysters at the festival are unlimited. Other food and drink items are available too. Try a traditional east coast lobster roll, chowder or one of our non-seafood sliders. Pair it with a NS Spirit Co. product at our full service bar. These additional items can be purchased on site with food/drink tickets. Items run 5-10 tickets each. Ticket costs $1. HOT TIP Pre-purchase in packs of 20 when you buy your festival pass to skip the lines. Individual tickets available on site.
FESTIVAL PARTNERS
Want to partner with us? Contact us for bespoke partnership opportunities
Fisherman's Market
Jost Vineyards
Afishionado
Fishermans Market
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