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Don’t Miss the Annual Apalachicola Oyster Cook-Off!

By Forgotten Coast Web Team | January 14, 2022

Crowd of people enjoying the sun and water by a shrimp boat at the Oyster Cook-Off in Apalachicola

Are you looking for some fun and entertainment after the holidays? For over a decade now, Apalachicola has played host to one of the most fun, delicious, and entertaining seafood competitions in the area. Head over to Apalachicola this weekend for the Annual Apalachicola Oyster Cook-Off.

Oyster Cook-Off Judges Tasting

The Cook-Off is a lively annual event held every Friday and Saturday before Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in historic Apalachicola at beautiful Riverfront Park. And all proceeds from the Oyster Cook-Off benefit the Apalachicola Volunteer Fire Department.

Couple holding beer and plate of oysters

The Cook-Off features live music, local beer, kids’ activities, dancing performances, a 5.5K fun run, hamburgers, hot dogs, smoked mullet, shrimp, and—of course—loads of delicious oysters! There is no gate entrance fee for this family-friendly event. 

Beginning Friday, Apalachicola music venues come alive with entertainment. Be sure to stop by High Five Dive Bar, and the Apalachicola Ice Company to sample the music and fun!  But don’t stay out too late. You’ll want to set your alarms to get up bright and early for the Half-Shell Hustle Fun run. Registration begins at 7 am at Riverfront Park. 

Saturday is the famous Oyster Cook-Off Contest. Judges begin tasting at 2 pm and announce the winners around 3 pm. Throughout the day on Saturday, an array of food, beer, and other refreshments will be available for purchase. Whether you prefer hamburgers, hot dogs, and sweet treats or smoked mullet, shrimp, and oysters on the half-shell, you’ll find plenty of tasty dishes to satisfy your cravings.

Dancing performance at the Oyster Cook-off

Ready to plan your trip down to the Forgotten Coast for the Oyster Cook-Off? Book your getaway today!