Chincoteague Oysters

Chincoteague Island Virginia is world famous for its production of high quality oysters. These delicious shellfish are harvested from wild oyster bars and reefs or cultivated on small beds of shells or in simple floating aquaculture structures.

The Atlantic ocean flows into the shallows surrounding the island each day, providing an exceptional environment for the growth shellfish.

The species of oysters that grow on Chincoteague Island are Eastern, Atlantic or Virginia oysters (Crassostrea Virginica). Virginia oysters designated as the state shell of Virginia.

The Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce Annual Oyster Festival is held annually in October to promote the seafood industry and mark the arrival of the Oyster season.

Visitors sample local oysters served raw on the half-shell, steamed, single-fried, in oyster fritters and other recipes. In addition to oysters, local seafood includes steamed crabs, clam fritters, clam chowder and other local foods.

There is usually live entertainment during the festival. Food is served from noon until 4:00 p.m. and the festival is held rain or shine.