Calling all Vendors, Artisans, History Non-profits: Want a Spot at the Fall Oyster Festival?
Applications Now Open — Reserve Your Space Today
The Fall Oyster Festival is one of downtown York’s most beloved autumn events, expected to draw nearly 3,000 visitors to the heart of the city for a day of food, fun, and community. We’re looking for talented makers, artisans, historical demonstrations, food vendors, and historical non-profit organizations to be part of the excitement!
Why Vend With Us?
🍂 High foot traffic during one of York’s longest continuously-running fall festivals
🛍️ An engaged, enthusiastic crowd of shoppers and food lovers of all ages
👨👩👧 Families, locals, and visitors all in one place
📍 Stunning historic setting at the Colonial Complex
Who We’re Looking For:
- Artisan & craft vendors
- Food & beverage vendors
- Historical demonstrations
- Historical nonprofit organizations with interactive activities
Spaces are limited — don’t wait!
All applications must be received by July 1.
Questions? Contact Cassidy Brady, cbrady@yorkhistorycenter.org, 717/848-1587 x211
Fall into Something Wonderful: a free, family-friendly fall celebration in the heart of downtown York.
📅 Sunday, October 18 | 🕙 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
📍 Colonial Complex — Pershing Ave. between Market & Philadelphia Streets, Downtown York
✅ Free to attend
✅ Pay-as-you-go food, drinks & vendors
✅ New this year: Updated credit card systems for fast, easy checkout.
✅ New this year: Improved signage throughout the festival so you’ll always know where to go and what’s happening!
Sponsorships: Help Make the Magic Happen 🤝
Sponsorship Opportunities Available Soon!
The Fall Oyster Festival is more than just a great day out. It’s a cornerstone of the York community’s fall calendar and a proud part of the “FALL in Love with York” weekend. By becoming a sponsor, your business or organization gets meaningful visibility while directly supporting this family-friendly festival with nearly 3,000 attendees.
Why Sponsor the Fall Oyster Festival?
🎯 Put your brand in front of thousands of York County residents and visitors
📣 Recognition across festival signage, social media, website, billboards, and other marketing materials
🤝 Align your brand with community, family, and local pride
🏛️ Be part of a beloved York tradition with deep community roots since 1974
🍂 Exciting opportunities tied to the “FALL in Love with York” weekend partnership
Sponsorship levels and custom packages are available to fit a range of budgets and goals. Whether you’re a local small business or a regional organization, there’s a sponsorship opportunity that works for you.
Complete sponsorship information coming soon!
Interested in learning more? Contact Amy Serafino, CFRE, aserafino@yorkhistorycenter.org, or call 717/848-1587 x227.
Calling Volunteers: Be Part of the Crew! 🙋
Volunteer at the Fall Oyster Festival — Sign Up Coming Soon!
Behind every great festival is an amazing team of volunteers. If you love downtown York, love your community, and want to be part of one of the best and longest-running fall events of the season, we want YOU on our crew!
We have a variety of roles available, so whether you’re an early riser or an end-of-day hero, there’s a spot for you:
🌅 Early Morning Set-Up: Help us bring the festival to life before the gates open
🌭Back of House: Fryers, grillers, order fillers, and runners keeping the kitchen humming
🙋 Front of House — Order takers and runners delivering great food and friendly faces to our guests
😊 Guest Experience — Welcoming visitors, answering questions, and making sure everyone has an amazing day
👕 Merch Tent — Representing the festival and helping guests find their favorite souvenirs
🧹 Tear-Down & Clean-Up — Helping us wrap up the day and leave the Colonial Complex in great shape
All volunteers receive free festival meal and commemorative T-shirt.
Questions? Email Liz Bleacher, ebleacher@yorkhistorycenter.org, or 717/848-1587 x226
Mark your calendar: Your Perfect Fall Day Starts Here 🍂
There’s no better way to celebrate the season than spending a Sunday afternoon outside surrounded by the beauty of a York autumn. The Colonial Complex provides a stunning historic backdrop for a day filled with great energy, warm flavors, and community connection.
Whether you’re strolling with the kids, exploring with friends, or making it a date day, the Fall Oyster Festival has everything you need for an unforgettable fall outing. Never tried an oyster before? This is your chance. Whether you slurp ’em by the dozen or lean more toward land-locked fare? We got you covered!
A Little Something for Everyone
🎸 Live Music
Enjoy great live performances all afternoon long on the festival grounds. The soundtrack of fall is here. (Band list: Coming soon!)
🍽️ Expanded Menu — New This Year!
Our biggest and most diverse food lineup yet! From fall comfort foods to fresh seafood, including oysters, to sweet treats and more, there’s something to satisfy every craving. (Complete menu: coming soon!)
🍺 Drinks to Toast the Season
Raise a glass to fall with craft beer, wine, and soft-drink options that pair perfectly with the crisp October air. (Complete beverage list: coming soon!)
🛍️ Outstanding Vendors, Artisans, and Organizations
Shop a hand-picked selection of artisan makers, local craftspeople, unique demonstrations, and more – perfect for early holiday gift shopping or treating yourself to something special. Vendors: apply here by July 1.
🤠 Kids Corral – New This Year!
The Kids Corral features brand-new activities! A dedicated, safe space where little ones can play, explore, and make memories while the whole family relaxes and enjoys the festival. (Complete activity list: coming soon!)
🏛️ Free Admission to the History Center & Colonial Complex Tours
Step inside history! Guests enjoy complimentary access to the York County History Center and guided tours of the Colonial Complex – a rare and wonderful bonus for fall frolickers of all ages.
Find Us in the Heart of Downtown York
The Fall Oyster Festival takes place at the Colonial Complex, nestled in the heart of downtown York along Pershing Avenue between Market and Philadelphia Streets. It’s a gorgeous, walkable, historic setting that’s perfect for a fall festival.
📍 Colonial Complex
Pershing Ave. between Market & Philadelphia Streets
Downtown York, PA
Parking and transit information coming soon.
Explore History While You’re Here – Free!
As a Fall Oyster Festival guest, you’ll enjoy free admission to the York County History Center and Colonial Complex tours. Discover the rich history of York County through fascinating exhibits, beautifully preserved historic buildings, and knowledgeable guides.
It’s the perfect complement to a fall festival day, and a wonderful way to connect kids and families with the story of our community.
See You October 18!
Mark your calendar, bring the family, and get ready for a fall day filled with food, fun, music, and memories. The Fall Oyster Festival is one of York’s favorite fall traditions since 1974, all to benefit the York County History Center.
Can’t attend? Support the History Center all year long with a donation to the Fall Oyster Festival!
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