WELLFLEET — The last OysterFest celebrated here drew an estimated 23,000 people to town, where they ate some 125,000 oysters, drank quantities of beer perhaps best left unestimated, and stayed a while. That was 2019. Restaurants and shops bustled with pre-pandemic abandon back then.
Although organizers at the nonprofit Shellfish Promotion and Tasting (SPAT) decided to hold back on a full-on festival for a second year, they have produced a low-key version — Wellfleet Oyster Week — underway now.
Wellfleet SPAT Art & Oyster Crawl
Saturday, Oct. 9, 4:30 to 7 p.m.
An evening to visit Wellfleet’s galleries, meet local shellfishermen, and slurp as many freshly shucked oysters as you can. Newcomb Hollow Shop & Gallery, AMZehnder Gallery, Marrinan Gallery, Cove Gallery, Left Bank Gallery, BHA Gallery, The Works Gallery, and Frying Pan Gallery are all participating, according to the SPAT website, which also suggests you B.Y.O. flashlight for strolling after sunset. Tickets are $50 to $80 and must be purchased in advance at wellfleetspat.org.
Oyster Farm Tours
Saturday, Oct. 9, 7:30 a.m.
and Sunday, Oct. 10, 8:15 a.m.
Wade out on a working shellfish farm to learn how oysters are cultivated in local waters. Forget your flip-flops — you need boots or shoes that can get wet and muddy. The tour costs $20 (children under 12 free) and each is limited to 25 people. Reservations required at wellfleetspat.org.
SPAT Online Auction
Through Oct. 13
Bid on items donated by local businesses. Proceeds help SPAT continue its mission to preserve, protect, and promote Wellfleet’s shellfish farmers and wild harvesters. Get the link at wellfleetspat.org.
2021 Shuck Off Viewing Party
Sunday, Oct. 10, 7 p.m.
The Fox & Crow Café at 6 Commercial St. is the place to watch the Shuck Off on the big screen. The contest was held on Sunday, Oct. 3 but will be aired on Thursday, Oct. 7 at 5 p.m. on Lower Cape TV.
For questions about SPAT or Wellfleet Oyster Week, contact Maia Ward, [email protected].
