The International Oyster Festival

Galway, Ireland Slurp them down whole, fry them, grill then, chuck them on a barbecue... oysters are one versatile little mollusc. Where better to develop your taste for them than in Ireland, which arguably produces the world’s finest oysters. Don’t clam up – get shucking, sucking and tasting with the knowledgeable locals and party like only the Irish can (this is the country’s second biggest festival after St Patrick’s Day). There’s a parade and a gala ball with dancing to help you come out of your shell. September 24 to 27