Mark your festival calendar for June 14, as the official announcement for the Arcata Bay Oyster Festival is out. As is tradition, the Saturday before Father’s Day will see crowds, vendors and live music all over the Arcata Plaza from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. like hot sauce on a grilled Pacific. The strong of stomach will return to the Shuck and Swallow competition, and oyster calling and Best Oyster trophies will be on the line, as well.
According to the press release from the Arcata Chamber of Commerce, the free, zero-waste festival is still seeking vendors but so far, Piet Dalmolen Band, A Banjo Makes Three, The Mojo Rockers, Samba Floresta, Blue Rhythm Revue, Hyperion, The California Poppies and Diggin Dirt are all set to perform. Attendees can expect all the beer, wine and cider to be local.
Read the full press release below:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Arcata’s 35th Annual Oyster Festival Returns June 14, 2025!
Arcata, CA – The Arcata Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce The 35th Annual Arcata Bay Oyster Festival, happening Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 10 AM to 5 PM on the Arcata Plaza. This beloved community tradition celebrates local flavors, music, aquaculture, and art, drawing thousands to the heart of Humboldt County. Don’t forget, admission to the festival is completely free!
This year’s festival will feature an incredible lineup of live music, with performances by Piet Dalmolen Band, A Banjo Makes Three, The Mojo Rockers, Samba Floresta, Blue Rhythm Revue, Hyperion, The California Poppies, and headliner Diggin Dirt! Attendees can enjoy an eclectic mix of genres while savoring the best local oysters and fresh cuisine the North Coast has to offer.
All libations at this year’s event will be sourced locally, showcasing the incredible breweries, wineries, and cideries of our region. Festivalgoers can once again take advantage of presale tickets, ensuring a seamless experience on the day of the event.
VIP Lounge Returns – With a New Location!
Back by popular demand, the VIP Lounge is making a return in an exciting new venue! This year, VIP ticket holders will enjoy exclusive access to Havana in the old Plaza View Room, which provides a comfortable and elevated space to enjoy the festival. VIP tickets and presale tokens will be available in the next month.
We are actively seeking more oyster vendors, so if you are interested in participating, please reach out! This is a great opportunity for non-profits to raise funds! Additionally, the volunteer applications are on our website, so be sure to sign up and be part of this fantastic event.
Festival highlights include the return of the Shuck and Swallow competition, the Oyster Calling contest, and the highly anticipated Best Oyster Contest!
The Arcata Bay Oyster Festival is a zero-waste event dedicated to sustainability and supporting local businesses. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or a first-time visitor, we invite you to join us for a day filled with delicious food, fantastic music, and community spirit.
For more information, visit www.arcatabayoysterfestival.com
This article appears in ‘Breathing Room’.
