North Carolina Oyster Month returns October 2024
Get ready to “shellebrate” as North Carolina Oyster Month returns this October, bringing a variety of fun and flavorful events across the state. From oyster farm tours to seafood festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to savor local oysters while supporting coastal conservation.
To highlight the vital role oysters play in our coastal ecosystems, Governor Roy Cooper has again declared October as North Carolina Oyster Month. “North Carolina’s coastal ecosystems are invaluable, and the people who work to protect them are essential in safeguarding species that provide critical benefits such as food, water filtration, and fish habitats,” Gov. Cooper’s proclamation states.
North Carolina Sea Grant, the North Carolina Coastal Federation, and the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources are once again organizing this year’s NC Oyster Month in partnership with the NC Oyster Trail.
A sample of event listings for the Outer Banks are below, and will continually be updated on the NC Oyster Trail and NCDNCR websites. From oyster chef specials to kayak tours of oyster farms, there is something for everyone during NC Oyster Month.
Oyster Roast at Dune Street Raw Bar & Grill
Oct. 4 | 3 pm – 11 pm | Nags Head
To celebrate their one year anniversary, Dune Street Raw Bar will have drink specials throughout the day to complement their usual slate of culinary delights, then come evening it’ll be oysters galore with an oyster roast (from Kinnakeet, Little Star and Ocracoke Oyster Co) and live music by The Southern Split. Dune Street prioritizes their partnerships with local watermen, farmers, purveyors and artists, ensuring that every ingredient is not only fresh, but also a tribute to the rich tapestry of coastal Carolina.
A Celebration of the Gilded Oyster
Oct. 5 | 10am – 6 pm | Empty Nest Studio & Gallery, Frisco
Join Empty Nest Studio for a raffle featuring oyster jewelry and a wine tasting hosted by Lee Robinson’s General Store. Come and enjoy some epicurean oyster delights and lots of fun!
23rd Annual Oink n Oyster Roast
Oct. 5 | 12 – 4 pm | Jolly Roger Restaurant, Kill Devil Hills
What’s better than roasted oysters and live music? Join Jolly Roger for a great day of amazing slow roasted pork, fresh roasted oysters from Lighthouse Shoals Oyster Company, and live music with stylings from Phil Watson.
Oct. 19 | 10 am – 6 pm | Nags Head
The Outer Banks Seafood Festival will teach you about our state’s fishing industry and heritage, let you savor local seafood, and treat you to live music. Meet fisher folk and see the boats that bring fresh seafood to your table. The NC Oyster Trail will have an educational booth. Be sure to visit!
Oyster Farm to Fork Kayak Tours with the NC Coastal Federation
Most Wednesdays (Oct. 2, 16, 23, 30) at 11 am | Wanchese
Paddle out to the NC Coastal Federation’s oyster farm and then taste some oysters from local restaurant Dune Street Raw Bar & Grill. Find out how this most sustainable and delicious protein gets to your plate. Be sure to register!
