Recently in Galway City Category

"The world is your oyster," is an oft-repeated phrase, but if you're wondering where in the world, exactly, you might find this oyster, try the city of Galway, Ireland this September 25-28, 2008. The Galway International Oyster Festival celebrates every aspect of these delicious bivalves, with a multitude of oyster-related events spread out over Galway City. You've got to dive right in to an oyster festival, so begin with an evening of food and drink at the Magnificent Mardi Gras Party at the Oyster Marquee on Nimmo's Pier. Slurp down native Irish oysters and chase them with Guinness, white wine, or Champagne and savor the good life. Then check out the frenzied competition at the Guinness World Oyster Opening Championship at the 800-year-old King's Head on Shop Street, where oyster shucking champions from around the world will go head to head in the sport's ultimate match. (I would take last place in this competition.) Keep the good times rolling at the oyster parade in Eyre Square, where the newly-crowned "Pearl" will present the first oyster of the season to the mayor, following a tradition over fifty years old. It's good to be the mayor, don't you think? The festival is a 90-minute drive from the Sheraton Athlone Hotel.