Celebrating Americana on the Half Shell

"The first man gets the oyster, the second man gets the shell"

Andrew Carnegie 

Fortunately, during last weekend's 52nd Urbanna Oyster Festival, there were plenty of oysters to be had, even for those in the back of the line.  Everyone had loads.  And, most of us, way too many!  If you've not had the chance to venture to Urbanna, Virginia, for the annual oyster celebration, you're not only missing great food, but also a special glimpse of small town America. 

Urbanna is located in Virginia's Northern Neck, which is situated North of Williamsburg, and Southeast of Fredericksburg, hugging the Chesapeake Bay. 

It's been called a "historic town", and, in many ways, it is.  It's among the places you'll see on the National Register of Historic Places.  But, each year, on November 6th & 7th, you'll find some 75,ooo folks headed to this "sleepy" coastal town for oysters, fritters and other assorted dishes, and loads more fun.  I can tell you, it's likely on the "must see" list for those who enjoy touring the country in their RV's, because there were plenty of those big boys parked in and around the festival. 

The two day festival has an assortment of activities, from an oyster shucking contest to the crowning of the festival's Oyster Queen, among others. 

Any number of booths selling food, jewelry, art work, intricate wood design (well, you get the picture, like you'd see at the County Fair), and assorted items dot the town's landscape.  Parking is available, but plan on paying a minumum of $10 or Friday, and $20 on Saturday to park. 

And, for those visiting for the first time, it doesn't matter where you park, the prices are the same.  So, for convenience sake upon leaving, use the lots before you come into town.  

Enjoying the sights and sounds of Urbanna, and the Oyster Festival, the kids having fun, the adults enjoying each other's company, the interaction with the booth workers, reminded me of the abundance our Commonwealth has to offer.  While most of us relish the time away from work on the weekends, and the relaxation it provides, you might mark the calendar and set aside this early November date next year.  It is a piece of Americana that you don't want to miss.

You'll meet some very nice people, view a beautiful part of the state, and enjoy some appetizing food dishes.  But you might do yourself a favor.  In case your eyes are too big for your stomach, don't forget to bring the Tums!  

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