Milford Oyster Festival 2023: Here's Everything You Need To Know

MILFORD, CT – As The 49th Annual Milford Oyster Fest Approaches, Michele DiBella, publicity chair, reminds festivalgoers of several important facts about this year’s festival.

“Our motto is Fun for Everyone, and with that in mind, we have a fund day of Children’s activities in Folwer Pavilion and amusement rides,” DiBella said. “Our food court is Yummy this year; we are featuring food trucks, food vendors, beer and wine, plus 30,000 locally sourced oysters.”

The 49th Annual Milford Oyster Fest is set for Saturday, Aug. 19, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine.

“The festival is free, and no tickets are needed,” DiBella said. “No coolers, pets or tents are allowed at the Festival event.”

Before the 49th Annual Milford Oyster Fest takes place, the Oyster Eve, the kick-off event, is on Friday, Aug. 18, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Fowler Field. Oyster Eve has a $5 cover at the door for anyone over 14 years old. An adult must accompany all minors.

The Main Stage Music Schedule is as follows.

• 12 p.m., Oddfellas
• 2 p.m., Dobbie Brothers
• 4 p.m., Lou Gramm, the original voice of Foreigner.

There is a new parking lot and shuttle service from Platt Technical High School, 600 Orange Ave.

“Again, this year, there will be parking and shuttle service from Jonathan Law High School, 20 Landsdale Ave.,” DiBella said.

However, this year there is no parking at the Connecticut Post Mall.

There is also handicapped and preferred parking, and the train is another viable option to get to the festival, DiBella stated.

“Our crafters are getting very excited. The buzz on social media is huge,” DiBella said. “Over 200 crafters will be on the beautiful Milford Green. We will host Main Street, Civic and non-profit groups with a great turnout this year.”

DiBella said The Classic Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show in the armory has grown not only to include cars but all-day music with a live band and DJ, food, beer and an ax throwing area.

“The Canoe and Kayak race starts the Festival in the Harbor,” DiBella said. “It’s lots of fun, and people love to participate.”

DiBella said Lisman Landing hosts many fresh oysters, a craft beer, and the popular oyster contest, and they have a great lineup of music all day long.

The Oyster Shucking contest begins at 11 a.m., the Oyster Eating contest (invitation only) beings at 11:30 a.m., Oyster Shucking Final Round starts at 12 p.m., and the Oyster Shucking Winner presentation beings at 3:45 p.m.

During this year’s Oyster Fest, DiBella said there will be pedal cruise rides.

“If there is room, you can show up at the event in the harbor,” DiBella said.