Lowcountry Oyster Festival is back and better than ever

Author: 
Robin Gibson
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By Robin Gibson

 

For the first time, guests can use RFID payment bracelets—powered by WristCoin—for food and drinks.

 

Prepare for one of the Holy City's most beloved traditions set to take place soon. On Sunday, Feb. 2, 2005, the Lowcountry Oyster Festival will celebrate its 41st year at Boone Hall in Mt. Pleasant. Come hungry! Presented by the Charleston Restaurant Foundation, this year’s event is packed with live music, family-friendly activities and a whole lot of oysters.

 

“The Lowcountry Oyster Festival has grown to be one of the region’s most anticipated culinary traditions, and we are proud to continue hosting this quintessential Charleston celebration as it marks its 41st year,” said Charleston Restaurant Foundation President Jonathan Kish.

 

“With its blend of food, family and fun," Kish continues, "the event draws visitors from across the country while staying true to its mission of giving back to the Charleston community through local charities and initiatives.”

 

Local Music, Big Talent

 

The festival recently announed the lineup of musical entertainment with a trifecta of homegrown acts taking the stage.Bryan the DJopens the show, followed byThe Secret Ingredients,the six-piece soulful Motown and infectious modern party hits band led by the legendary Bill Wilson.

 

Summerville's own rock band,OldSoul,will headline the festival keeping the energy high into the afternoon.

 

Food, Festivities and a New Way to Pay

 

With more than 45,000 pounds of oysters on hand, the festival also promises legendary oyster shucking and oyster eating contests.

 

Not an oyster fan? You’ll find beer, wine, cocktails and plenty of tasty bites from local restaurants and food trucks including MacDaddy Food Truck, Sunsets, Zeus Grill and Seafood, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Pure Fluff Co., Bacon Station, Shots and Vin, Cachita’s Kitchen, Recharge Nutrition, Hyman’s Seafood, Oyster House, Charleston Crab House, Charleston Catering and Crush Yard.

 

For the first time, guests can use RFID payment bracelets—powered by WristCoin—for food and drinks. Simply load funds onto your bracelet at one of three stations, then top up as needed throughout the day.

 

As a charity fundraiser, the Lowcountry Oyster Festival donated more than $106,000 to local causes last year.

 

Pluff-a-Pallooza for the Kids

 

Children will find plenty to do in the Pluff-a-Pallooza Children’s Area. Parents can expect bubble therapy, an inflatable games arcade, a “noisy oyster percussion” play area, cookie decorating with “pluff-mudd” frosting.

 

Other kid-friendly acttractions will include sweetgrass basket weaving, egg toss contests, “Theatre on the Half-Shell” shows, stilt performers and more. Activities run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Giving Back to the Community

 

As a charity fundraiser, the Lowcountry Oyster Festival donated more than $106,000 to local causes last year. This year, organizers hope to exceed that number. 

 

Proceeds from the 2025 event will benefit Ronald McDonald House, Hollings Cancer Center, Coastal Conservation Association, Shriners Hospitals for Children, College of Charleston, Academic Magnet High School, Charleston County School of the Arts and the Culinary Institute of Charleston’s “Kathy Britzius Memorial Scholarship.”

 

Rain or Shine

 

Please note, the festival will go on regardless of weather. No refunds will be offered. Pets, coolers and outside food and beverages are prohibited. Oyster knives and gloves will be sold on-site.

 

Boone Hall Plantation is located at 1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464, with entrances available from both Long Point Road and Highway 17. For tickets and a detailed itinerary, visitthe website.

 

If you’re looking for the ultimate Charleston experience, this is the can’t-miss event of the year. Get shucking, y’all!