U.S. Oyster Festival Leonardtown

Saturday, October 17, 2026 · 10:00 AM EDT

St. Mary's County Fairgrounds, 42455 Fairgrounds Rd, Leonardtown, MD 20650 · Leonardtown, MD

About this event

The U.S. Oyster Festival is a prestigious two-day autumn celebration held each October at the St. Mary's County Fairgrounds in Leonardtown, featuring the U.S. National Oyster Shucking Championship and National Oyster Cook-Off. The festival attracts thousands of visitors and includes over 50 local vendors selling handcrafted items, artwork, and Chesapeake-themed goods alongside numerous food vendors. Artisan vendors display ceramics, wood carvings, paintings, sauces and local specialties in the expanded Artisans Alley. The event also offers live music, family-friendly activities, and educational displays about watermen heritage and bay conservation. Proceeds benefit local nonprofits and community programs throughout St. Mary's County.

Event details

Date and time

Saturday, October 17, 2026 · 10:00 AM EDT

Venue

St. Mary's County Fairgrounds, 42455 Fairgrounds Rd, Leonardtown, MD 20650 · Leonardtown, MD

Category

Food & drink

Cost

Cost not stated

Age guidance

Age guidance not specified

Format

In person

Last verified

October 9, 2026

Accessibility

Wheelchair: Not stated

Assistive Listening: Not stated