This is the big one, the main event, the raison d’être of the Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival…

join us on Saturday afternoon for the World Oyster Opening Championships.

Competitors from all over the world converge on Galway at the end of September every year to compete for this acclaimed international accolade.

Competitors are judged not only on speed of opening but on technique and presentation.

Tension mounts as openers pit their skills against each other in the hopes of being named the World Oyster Opening Champion 2025.

Come and cheer for your favourite!

Fabulous live music and scrumptious seafood provide an ambient backdrop to the excitement of the competitions. When you’re not busy cheering on your favourite competitor, you can taste and graze your way through a mouth watering selection of fresh, locally sourced seafood from the West or Ireland; from the renowned Native Oyster to organic smoked salmon to succulent mussels. Meat, vegan and veggie options are also available in the festival marquee.

Your ticket includes a glass of bubbly on arrival, oyster taster dish, plus a seafood tasting plate (non-seafood and vegetarian options also available).