With winter nearing its end, it’s officially time to start thinking about all the iconic spring and summer events we’d like to check out in the upcoming months. For instance, if have yet to attend the annual Oyster Festival that takes place in Arcata every year, you’ll want to be sure that this is the year that you do. Now in its 30th year, this beloved event is a celebration of oysters and Northern California culture. Read on to learn all about what this popular annual festival entails!

For three whole decades, the Arcata Main Street has hosted a tasty and fun Oyster Festival that has become a long-standing tradition for locals and travelers alike. This year, the treasured event will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2020.

Arcata Main Street/Facebook

Now in its 30th year, the Oyster Festival will take place in the Arcata Plaza. It’s considered the largest one-day event in Humboldt County, and we can see why. After all, everybody loves fresh Northern California oysters, and we’ll find any reason to celebrate (and eat) them.

Arcata Main Street/Facebook

More than 13,000 people come out and pack the town’s plaza to enjoy a day filled with eating fabulous oysters and drinking local beer and wine. A schedule of live performances and musical acts keep the party going all day long, so there’s never a dull moment.

Arcata Main Street/Facebook

You’ll even enjoy some of the festival’s quirkiest activities, like the Oyster Callin or the Shuck-n-Swallow contest. Local chefs also compete for the best oyster dish. There’s something for every oyster lover at this fantastic event!

Arcata Main Street/Facebook

Of course, the oyster is at the heart of this unique event. However, the Oyster Festival is so much more than a massive oyster tasting. It’s also a celebration of North Coast culture and includes all of the food, drinks, and art you could possibly consume in one day.

Arcata Main Street/Facebook

In true Humboldt County fashion, the festival also prides itself on being a completely zero-waste event. This means that every shell, cup, or container you see at the festival is either compostable or reusable. It only makes sense to show your appreciation for the environment at an event like this.

Arcata Main Street/Facebook

It’s still months away but you’ll definitely want to start thinking about attending Arcata’s famous Oyster Festival. This quirky yet delicious festival is NorCal tradition and you don’t want to miss it. Learn more about the upcoming event here.

Arcata Main Street/Facebook

Have you attended the annual Oyster Festival in the past? Tell us about your experience in the comments below! For more iconic events to check out, see this list of 12 Delicious Food Festivals To Attend In Northern California. 

Arcata Main Street/Facebook

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Address: 844 H St, Arcata, CA 95521, USA