Everything Oyster

Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming NC Oyster Festival in Ocean Isle Beach.

Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce has announced the schedule of events for this year’s 42nd Annual NC Oyster Festival, which will be held October 20 to 22 in Ocean Isle Beach. The family-friendly festival features live music and entertainment, a variety of foods and oysters, crafts vendors, contests and more.

Friday, October 20
5 to 8 pm
The festival begins with Community Night Kick-off, which will include a flag raising, the unveiling of the 2023 commemorative t-shirt and commemorative print (both designed by artisan Keith White), comments from town officials and festival facilitators and a free concert featuring Band of Oz.

Saturday, October 21
9 am to 6 pm
Saturday’s entertainment lineup includes Ryan Perry, Terry Douglas and Gary Lowder & Smokin’ Hot.
Oyster Shucking Contest begins at 11:30 am
Oyster Eating Contest at 3 pm

Sunday, October 22
10 am to 5 pm
Sunday’s entertainment lineup includes Chocolate Chip & Company and Too Much Sylvia
Oyster Stew Contest at 1 pm.

To participate in one of the contests, you must go to the NC Oyster Festival website to sign up. Click here for contest registration.

Shuttles and Parking
A free shuttle service will run nonstop during festival hours, with free parking and pick-up at the following locations:
Lowes Foods, 7278 Beach Drive, Ocean Isle Beach
Odell E Willamson Municipal Airport, 6080 Beach Drive, Ocean Isle Beach

Limited handicapped parking is available at 2 W. 3rd Street, and the NC Oyster Festival is navigable for wheelchairs.

Admission
There is a $5 cash admission per adult for entry to the festival; children younger than 12 get in free.

Want to go?
NC Oyster Festival
Saturday, October 21 and Sunday, October 22
OIB Town Center Park, 11 E. 2nd Street, Ocean Isle Beach
(910) 754-6644
ncoysterfestival.com