LEONARDTOWN, Md. — The countdown is on to one of Southern Maryland’s biggest fall shell-ebrations, and fans now have the chance to win tickets to the 59th annual U.S. Oyster Festival, coming to the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Oct. 18, and Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025.
The BayNet is giving away tickets to the annual shell-ebration, hosted by the Rotary Club of Lexington Park, where the nation’s top oyster shuckers will compete for the title of U.S. National Oyster Shucking Champion and the chance to represent the United States at the International Championship in Galway, Ireland. Shuckers from across the country will step onto the competition stage, where speed, precision and presentation determine who takes home the crown.
During the two-day shell-ebration, the fairgrounds will come alive with the sounds of live music across three stages, the aroma of freshly prepared seafood and the excitement of the shucking stage as competitors race against the clock. Guests can browse more than 100 food and craft vendors, sip local beverages and enjoy family-friendly attractions from pony rides and bounce houses to interactive shows with the Chesapeake Mermaid.
To enter the giveaway, fill out the short form below with your name, phone number and email address. Entries must be received by Saturday, Oct. 11. Winners will be contacted on Monday, Oct. 13.
If selected, tickets will be available for pickup at the festival’s Will Call. A valid photo ID matching the name submitted in the entry form will be required to collect tickets. Winners will be contacted directly via email, so be sure to check your inbox.
Known as one of Southern Maryland’s premier fall events, the U.S. Oyster Festival offers much more than championship-level shucking. Attendees can enjoy more than 100 food and craft vendors, three stages of live entertainment and plenty of activities for families, including pony rides, a petting zoo, bounce houses and interactive shows featuring the Chesapeake Mermaid.
Tickets are $15 for adults (18+), $25 for a weekend pass, $5 for youth ages 6–17, and free for children 5 and under.
The Oct. 18–19 festival is expected to draw visitors from across the region, bringing neighbors and families together for one of Southern Maryland’s biggest fall community celebrations.
Don’t miss your chance to join the shell-ebration — enter today for the opportunity to experience this iconic Southern Maryland tradition for free.
The U.S. Oyster Festival takes place at the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds, 42455 Fairgrounds Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650.
For more details, visit usoysterfestival.org.
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I have nerve been to an oryster festival
I don’t like oysters but I love the energy everyone brings to the festival and I like to see the competition. Luckily they have a variety of venders with delicious options.