A+E

The summer festival scene in Humboldt doesn't mess around. From bustling farmers markets to music and food extravaganzas, weekends June through August have a ton to offer. This weekend thousands of locals and out-of-towners flood the plaza for the Arcata Bay Oyster Festival.

On Saturday, June 16, follow your nose to the Arcata Plaza for the 28th annual shellfish fest from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to sample the savory and sweet offerings of oysters from dozens of area chefs and vendors. Barbecued, raw, stewed and skewered, drizzled in garlic-jalapeño aioli and honey sriracha or topped with honeydew melon and cucumber gazpacho and golden trout caviar. You name it, you'll find it and more.

About 70 percent of California's oysters are sustainably grown in Humboldt Bay and this all-day party joyfully celebrates the shellfish so embedded in our community, waters, hearts and bellies. Enjoy live music on stages surrounding the plaza, the crowd-pleasing (if somewhat gross) Shuck & Swallow Contest, a vibrant Art Market, the Flupsy Family Fun Zone, a silent disco, Arcata Playhouse/Playhouse Arts street performances, the Mermaid Lounge with performances by Va Va Voom Burlesque, Ya Habibi Dance Co., Spectrum Drag Cabaret and more.

Wear sunscreen, hydrate, designate a driver and come hungry. And if oysters aren't your thing, shucks, there's a plethora of other tasty food vendors on site.