The Virginia Oyster Shucking Contest, sponsored by T.M. Williams & Son Seafood, Urbanna Seafood & Raw Bar, Tony Walton Seafood and Walton Seafood, will start at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2, behind the Middlesex Volunteer Fire Department station (the Urbanna firehouse) at 335 Virginia St.
Since Urbanna is the home of Virginia’s “official” Oyster Festival, it is only appropriate that some of the best oyster shuckers in the world practice their trade near the town. The top professional shucker in the contest typically wins $300. The first place prize in each of the men’s and women’s divisions is $100; second, $50; and third, $25.
The winner is declared state champion and advances to compete in the National Oyster Shucking Contest in St. Mary’s County, Md., in October 2025. The National Champion then travels to Galway, Ireland to participate in the World Championship.
