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51st Annual Fall Oyster Festival

Celebrate oysters' historical connections to colonial York while supporting this major History Center fundraiser

When

Sun, Oct 19, 2025
11:00 am
- 4:00 pm

Location

Colonial Complex

Cost

Free admission. Food and beverages are pay as you go.
Graphic image promoting Fall Oyster Festival in October of 2025

This year’s 51st Fall Oyster Festival will be here before you know it. Make plans now for a day of history-infused family fun, live entertainment and, of course, lots of your favorite fall foods, from apple fritters and pork barbecue to (of course!) oysters — raw, fried and in a stew. All proceeds benefit the York County History Center.

Looking to volunteer at the event? Visit our sign up here!  For volunteer questions, contact Terri Altland 717-848-1587 x303 or taltland@yorkhistorycenter.org

Why oysters at a York Festival? In 1964, an archaeological dig at the Golden Plough Tavern uncovered oyster shells—proof that these tasty bivalves were part of York’s culinary scene as far back as the 1800s. What started as a quirky nod to history quickly turned into an annual celebration: the now-beloved Oyster Festival, where community, food, music, and York County pride come together in one unforgettable day. Don’t let the name fool you – there’s something on the menu for every discerning palette!

Funds raised from the Oyster Festival support the History Center all year long, so more than 20,000 visitors each year can discover York County’s unique story in meaningful and memorable ways. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please visit the Oyster Fest donation page.

Questions? Amy Serafino, CFRE, Vice President of Advancement, aserafino@yorkhistorycenter.org; 717/848-1587 x227

Location

Colonial Complex
157 W. Market St.
York, PA 17401 United States
+ Google Map

Oyster Fest Menu

a photo of raw oysters on a tray

Seafood

Raw oysters
Fried oyster sandwiches
Oyster stew
Crab cake sandwiches

Sandwiches, soups and sides

Mac and cheese
Pulled pork sandwiches
Chicken corn soup
Hot dogs
Bratworst
Apple sauce
Coleslaw
Sauerkraut
Apple fritters

 

Presenting Pearl Sponsors

Friends of the History Center logo