‘World’s largest’ oyster festival takes place Sunday at Boone Hall Plantation

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) – More than 50,000 oysters will be ready for shucking at Boone Hall Plantation this weekend.

The Lowcountry Oyster Festival – deemed one of the largest oyster festivals in the world – returns to Mount Pleasant on Sunday with live music, food trucks, drink options, children’s activities, and more.

Food can be purchased from many different vendors, and steamed oysters are available by the bucket. Organizers say one bucket includes roughly two and a half dozen oysters at market value.

General tickets for the event can be purchased online for about $25. VIP is sold out.

Attendees will hear music from Radio Bomb, including some members of the Blue Dogs, Uncle Mingo, and the East Coast Party Band.

And, if you’re up for the challenge, there will be a raw oyster eating contest and an oyster shucking contest.

The annual festival helps to raise funds for Charleston-area charities each year. Organizers say $124,000 was donated to beneficiaries like the Ronald McDonald House, Hollings Cancer Center, and other organizations following last year’s sold-out event.

“We are delighted to welcome friends, family and visitors to celebrate one of our region’s most iconic culinary traditions at the 40th annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival,” said Charleston Restaurant Foundation President, Johnathan Kish. “The Charleston Restaurant Foundation is honored to host this beloved fundraising event while spotlighting impactful charities and educational partners.”

Gates open for the event at 10:00 a.m. and the festival concludes at 5:00 p.m. Parking is free.