Ireland Events and Festivals

9/25/2008 - 9/28/2008Galway International Oyster Festival

The Irish love their oysters and Galway, one of the most unspoilt and spectacular regions of Ireland, is no exception. Every autumn, Galway City hosts the Oyster Festival where visitors can sample 'the taste of the sea'. For four days and nights, Galway celebrates as guests from all over the world consume the local oysters, Guinness and other delectable delights. The festival started in 1954; in 1960 the film director John Houston consumed 3,000 oysters; and in 1982, 40,000 oysters were eaten in one sitting. Highlights of the festival include the popular World Oyster Opening Championships, a champagne and oyster reception with the Mayor of Galway, the Oyster Pearl Contest, the parade of flags, a vintage car display, street entertainments, musical bands and an all-night disco. The festival ends with a magnificent banquet accompanied by the finest wines and liquors.