Bask in the Glory of the Bivalve at These Oyster Festivals Happening This Fall

Oyster season is in full swing, and each year there are a number of oyster festivals and all-you-can-eat events that are not to be missed. If you’re up for mollusk madness, head to these upcoming festivals to get your fill of everything oyster.
 

October 17, 11 AM–3 PM

Hank’s Old Town, Alexandria location is hosting Oyster Fest with all-you-can-eat oysters that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways: slurped on the half shell, gulped in a shooter, eaten grilled or fried. You’ll probably want more bites to supplement your bivalve intake...no worries, your ticket also gets you popcorn shrimp, calamari, onion rings, and Old Bay french fries in addition to unlimited select draft beer, house wine, and housemade punch. Tickets are $80, and the event will take place rain or shine. (1026 King St., Alexandria; 703-739-4265)
 

October 18, 12–5PM

Back for its second year, DC Oysterfest will be taking over Dock 5 at Union Market courtesy of Rappahannock Oyster Bar. There will be plenty of oysters from Rappahannock’s River Oyster Company’s own selection as well as other snacks, beer and wine from the District’s best purveyors including 3 Stars Brewery, Dolcezza, Red Apron, and Flying Dog Brewery, and local food trucks. Your ticket includes admission, your first six oysters, and your first drink; tickets are $35. (1309 5th St., NE)
 

October 24, 2–6PM

Tony and Joe’s Seafood Place in Georgetown is hosting its third annual Shuck It Beer and Oyster Festival. Enjoy an afternoon by the Waterfront with raw and grilled oysters, locally brewed beer, a pig roast featuring a whole roast porchetta, and live music from rockabilly band Jumpin’ Jupiter. Tickets for this fest are $75. (3000 K St., NW: 202-944-4545)
 

Probably the most popular oyster event of the season, Old Ebbitt Grill’s Oyster Riot is back for its 21st installment. A celebration of the winners from the international Wines for Oysters Competition, the Riot brings together wine and oyster lovers alike and is always held the weekend prior to Thanksgiving. It’s so well attended, there are three sessions: Friday at 7–10 PM, Saturday at 7–10 PM, and a Saturday matinee session from 1–4 PM. Each party features all-you-can-eat oysters and all-you-can-drink wine with light hors d’oeuvres including shrimp, crab claws, and hot oyster appetizers. Tickets are $140. (675 15th St., NW; 202-347-4800)