Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival
25 – 27 September 2026
What’s On
Friday 25th September
Oyster Farm Tours
Info and booking links coming soon!
Oyster Trail
On Friday afternoon, Galway will come alive with a showcase of seafood, entertainment and live shucking demos across the city. This year, we are partnering with even more venues, each with unique oyster offerings, drinks pairings and more. How many can you tick off your list?
Plus, meet the international competitors as they get some opening practice in on the native Galway oysters before the World Oyster Opening Championships on Saturday. They will be at venues across the trail, offering a masterclass in precision and flair.
Stay tuned and follow our social media pages for info as it drops!
Irish Oyster Opening Championship
Join us live in An Púcán as the best oyster openers in the country battle it out for the Irish title – and the chance to compete against the best in the world the following day. Last year, Michael Moran of Morans on the Weir took home the O’Dowd Memorial Cup – can he do it again in 2026? The action takes place in a city centre venue to be announced very soon, with an oyster bar, street seafood specials and drinks promos, as well as live music ’til late.
Saturday 26th September
Oyster Trail
The Oyster Trail continues throughout the weekend, with the best seafood in the West on menus throughout Galway. Take a road trip to visit some of our destination venues a little outside the city, or relax with a leisurely stroll through the city as it wakes up and prepares for the main event of the weekend.
Official Oyster Festival Brunch
Wish our Irish champion good luck as the focus turns to the World Championships. Indulge in a delicious feast to set yourself up for a day of revelry as the international competitors receive their Judges Briefing and prepare for competition.
Parade of Flags
Join the party as it makes its way from Eyre Square through the streets of the city to reach Cross St, where our guest MC awaits to welcome them to the stage.
The World Oyster Opening Championship
Competitors from 15 nations, from Canada to Australia, will battle it out for the title of World Oyster Opening Champion. On a stage specially erected on Cross Street, right in the heart of the Latin Quarter, competitors will put on a breathtaking display of speed, precision and finesse in the effort to take home the title. Last year, Estonia’s Anti Lepik was crowned champion for an unbelievable 6th time. Can he do it again and make it a record 7 wins?
Sample some of the finest street food in Galway at our pop-up market while you cheer on your favourite.
Stay tuned for exciting announcements coming soon on special guest MCs plus our live entertainment line up.
Oyster Trail venues will be getting in on the action with specials running throughout the weekend.
RNLI Charity Ball
This is your chance to celebrate with the champions and support a vital lifeline of the community while you do it.