Annual Fall Oyster Festival

Annual Oyster Festival presented by York County History Center

Your perfect fall Sunday is waiting at the annual Oyster Festival presented by York County History Center.

Picture this: crisp autumn air, live music drifting through historic downtown York, and a plate piled high with oysters (or whatever land-and-sea fare suits your taste). That's your Sunday at the Fall Oyster Festival — back this year, and better than ever! Admission is free and the festival runs from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Food is pay-as-you-go. Come hungry, eat as much (or as little) as you like.

Bring the kids, bring your friends, bring a date. However you spend the day, you'll find something worth savoring. Slurp oysters by the dozen, or stick to something a little more land-locked — either way, we've got you covered.

A backdrop as good as the food

You'll spend the day at the Colonial Complex, where centuries-old buildings set the scene for warm flavors and good company. It's the kind of place that makes an afternoon outside feel a little more special.

Be part of a York tradition

Here's something to think about while you're digging into your next oyster: this festival goes back to 1974, when the History Center celebrated the restoration of the Gates House and Plough Tavern — two colonial landmarks that still anchor this campus today. The reason for oysters specifically? Restoration crews found layers of oyster shells on site, a reminder that oysters were once a cheap, everyday food for colonial York residents.

That first festival drew a crowd. York has been showing up every year since — and this year marks 52 years of the tradition. Come see for yourself why it's one of the most anticipated fall events in town.

Easy to find, easy to enjoy

You'll find us right in the heart of downtown York, at the Colonial Complex on Pershing Avenue between Market and Philadelphia streets — a walkable, historic setting just steps from York's best shops and restaurants. Make a weekend of it.