History Center seeks volunteers, sponsors for Fall Oyster Festival

This year’s event is Oct. 18; expect more kids’ activities and an expanded menu

YORK, Pa. — The 52nd Annual Fall Oyster Festival returns Sunday, Oct. 18, at the Colonial Complex on North Pershing Avenue between Market and Philadelphia streets in historic downtown York. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Organizers expect close to 3,000 attendees and anticipate raising $175,000 to benefit the York County History Center

This year’s event features:

• An expanded menu with delicious options for every palate
• A Kids Corral with exciting new activities for the whole family
• The new General Gates Marketplace, featuring dozens of local artisans and vendors
• “Lightning talks” throughout the day at the History Center Museum that celebrate the event’s rich historical inspiration and traditions
• Free admission to the History Center all day, including the “Revolutionary York” exhibit and guided, timed tours of the Colonial Complex

“You don’t get to 52 years without a community that truly cares,” said Delia Pabon Gardner, co-chair of this fall’s Oyster Festival and a member of the History Center’s board. “It’s a testament to how deeply our community values its history and the people who keep it alive. What excites me most about this year’s festival is that we’re honoring everything that has made it beloved while boldly leaning into what it can become as traditions evolve. I can’t wait to see what this community creates together on October 18!”

True to the event’s tagline – it’s more than just oysters – festival goers can choose from an expanded land-and-sea menu, fall comfort foods and sweet treats, along with wine, craft beer and live music, all next to a hand-picked selection of artisan makers and local craftspeople.

Sponsors

Businesses looking to reach thousands of York County residents and visitors in a high-energy, family-friendly setting are invited to explore sponsorship opportunities. Festival sponsorships offer prominent visibility before and during the event, with packages designed to fit a range of budgets and goals. Questions about sponsorships should be directed to Amy Serafino, CFRE, Vice President of Advancement, at aserafino@yorkhistorycenter.org or 717-848-1587 ext. 227.

Volunteers

Behind every great festival is a great crew, and the History Center is looking for community members who want to be part of the action. Volunteer roles include early morning set-up, front and back of house food service, guest experience, the merch tent, and end-of-day tear-down and clean-up. All volunteers receive a free festival meal and commemorative T-shirt. For more information, contact Liz Bleacher at 717-848-1587 ext. 226 or ebleacher@yorkhistorycenter.org.

The Fall Oyster Festival is the History Center’s premier annual fundraiser, with proceeds supporting the preservation of artifacts, historic sites and community programming throughout the year.

For more information, visit yorkhistorycenter.org/falloysterfest.

Media contacts

YORK COUNTY HISTORY CENTER: Dan Fink, dfink@yorkhistorycenter.org, 717-848-1587 ext. 216.

About the York County History Center

The York County History Center, a nonprofit organization, inspires the exploration of the rich history, diverse people, and vibrant culture of York County, Pennsylvania and the United States. Housing more than 90,000 artifacts, the collection spans nearly 300 years of York County’s history, showcasing its development and spotlighting the many community contributions. The History Center’s Library & Archives is generally considered one of the best local history and genealogy libraries in the state. The History Center was named a USA Today Best New Museum of 2024.