Shellabration: A Celebration of Oysters & Marine Life

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Join us along the Hampton River in Downtown Hampton for "Shellabration," a free, family-friendly festival celebrating oysters and marine life! This vibrant event is packed with activities, entertainment, and demonstrations designed to educate and entertain all ages.

Event Highlights:

• Meet & Learn: Chat with local oyster farmers, see workboats in action, and discover how seafood is harvested. Explore oyster gardens and learn about sustainable seafood practices.

• Interactive Exhibits: Visit booths hosted by top organizations dedicated to the health of our waters, including the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Hampton History Museum, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, and more.

• Hands-On Demos: Learn how to select, prepare, and cook oysters with local experts!

• Food & Beverage: Enjoy delicious food and beverages provided by The Landing Hotel and Bull Island Brewing Company.

• Live Entertainment: Groove to the beats of R2Z Entertainment's DJ and live performances by Hard Times Band.

• Fun for Kids: Face painting by Mandy’s Fancy Face Painting and crafts by Mint Julep Arts and More!

Participating Organizations:

• Chesapeake Bay Foundation

• Chesapeake Oyster Alliance

• HCS Oyster Gardeners

• Hampton History Museum

• Virginia Institute of Marine Science

• Hampton Roads Sanitation Department

• Shored Up LLC

• VT Seafood AREC

• Virginia Aquarium

• HCC Litter and Recycling Awareness Committee

• James River Association

• Workboat Life (featuring working crab and oyster boats)

Location:

Downtown Hampton, along the beautiful Hampton River.

Mark your calendars and bring the whole family for a day filled with fun, education, and all things oyster! Let's come together to support our marine ecosystem and local seafood industry.

Don’t miss out on this Shellabration of life along the bay!