As the golden hues of autumn shine on the charming town of Urbanna, Virginia, anticipation is mounting for the much-awaited 66th Annual Urbanna Oyster Festival, set to take place on November 3-4, 2023. Following the resounding success of last year’s festival, which basked in an unexpected November heatwave, this year promises even more exciting experiences and cherished traditions.
This year, festival-goers can revel in the festivities for even longer. On Friday, November 3rd, the festivities kick off at 10:00 AM and continue until 8:00 PM. The celebration resumes on Saturday, November 4th, starting at 9:00 AM and culminating at 5:00 PM. With extended hours, attendees will have ample time to explore the myriad attractions and savor the delectable offerings.
A time-honored tradition since 1960, the Urbanna Oyster Festival’s Queen & Little Miss Spat Competition has evolved into a scholarship-based event, emphasizing community service, academic achievements, and overall participation. High school seniors from Middlesex County vie for the coveted title of Queen, each mentoring a first-grade co-contestant as their Little Miss Spat. The crowning ceremony, steeped in history, is scheduled for 4:00 PM on November 3, 2023.
Urbanna, the proud home of the Virginia “official” Oyster Festival, hosts the illustrious Virginia State Oyster Shucking Competition. Here, the finest oyster shuckers in the world demonstrate their prowess. The contest, slated for 11:00 AM on November 4, is a spectacle of speed and precision. Contestants are judged on various criteria, including shell fragments, clean separation of the oyster from the shell, and preservation of the oyster’s delicate meat. This event promises to be a riveting display of skill and determination.
Rekindling a tradition dating back to 1958, the Antique Car Show returns to the festival in grand style. Vintage automotive treasures will grace the corner of Waverly and Virginia Streets, offering a nostalgic journey through automotive history. The People’s Choice voting event, commencing at 9:00 AM on November 4, promises a delightful experience for enthusiasts. Winners in each class category will be prominently featured in the Saturday Oyster Festival Parade at 2:00 PM.
One of the defining features of the Urbanna Oyster Festival is its inclusive ethos. There are no admission tickets required to enter the festival grounds, ensuring that everyone can partake in the festivities. However, certain areas such as the Wine Garden and parking facilities may have nominal fees. Conveniently located ATMs will be scattered throughout the town for visitors’ ease.
With over 50,000 attendees from far and wide, the Urbanna Oyster Festival is a testament to the enduring allure of this coastal gem. Beyond the succulent bivalves prepared in myriad delectable ways, the festival showcases an array of Arts & Crafts Vendors, Community Row, and the unforgettable Oyster Shucking Contest. The parades, the crowning ceremony, and views of the Bay provide a picturesque backdrop to this celebration of all things oyster.Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of the Urbanna Oyster Festival.
For more information visit: https://www.urbannaoysterfestival.com/
