Cornwall's leading shell fish festival offers thousands a ‘shucking' great time every October 

For centuries Cornish families have dredged the beds of wild native oysters once planted by the Romans. The tales of sail and hand punt* live on as the maritime town of Falmouth celebrates the start of the season with the annual Oyster Festival in mid October with past event highlights having included: television presenter Monty Halls, comedian Johnny Cowling and free oyster tasting at the Opening Bash to name a few. 

The south coast festival casts a flavoursome programme of food, a range of music acts including the sounds of the Sea Shanty, Jazz, Folk and Soul over four days in the vibrant port of Falmouth. 

At the heart of the festival lies the rich history and heritage of the oyster fishermen who, for decades, have derived their livelihood from this traditional trade. Prohibited from using engines in order to preserve the natural ecology of the riverbed, Falmouth is now the only oyster fishery in Europe where original methods are still used. Here, molluscs are still gathered by hand, graded to perfection by eye, purified in an approved environment, and personally packed by the passionate crew before being ‘shucked'** and sampled all over the world.

Many of the oyster boats - the Falmouth Working Boats - were built at boatyards around the Fal. Dating back as far as 1860, these impressive vessels provide a fitting backdrop for the event.

The festival marquee on Events Square hosts the four days which starts with a Grand Opening Bash, cookery demonstrations, live music and an evening of great entertainment. 

For full programme details and more information, please visit www.falmouthoysterfestival.co.uk or follow on facebook

**Shucked - removing the oyster shell