National Oyster Day

Celebrate the rich flavors of oysters, a culinary treasure found in waterways across the world.

AUG5

Thursday, August 5Every year on August 5

days to go

Roots: First celebrated in the U.S.
Vibe: Casual gatherings and elegant dining
Also on Aug 5: International Traffic Light Day · Underwear Day · Work Like a Dog Day
Hashtag: #NationalOysterDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Shuck at home

Buy fresh oysters, learn to shuck safely, and slurp them your way.

WITH FRIENDS

Hit an oyster bar

Visit a raw bar with friends and order a dozen to share.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Plan a seafood lunch

Order oysters for the team and toast to Friday afternoon.

Plan ahead

National Oyster Day is observed on August 5 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Wed, Aug 5this year

2027Thu, Aug 5

2028Sat, Aug 5

2029Sun, Aug 5

2030Mon, Aug 5

2031Tue, Aug 5

2032Thu, Aug 5

2033Fri, Aug 5

2034Sat, Aug 5

2035Sun, Aug 5

2036Tue, Aug 5

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Fast facts

Millions of oysters are enjoyed yearly

Oysters can filter up to 50 gallons of water daily

The story

Oysters have been a staple in American cuisine since the early colonial days, often enjoyed by Indigenous communities long before European settlers arrived. The first recorded oyster harvest in the U.S. dates back to the 1600s along the Atlantic coast, where oysters were abundant and could be harvested easily, making them a popular food source for early settlers.

Read the full story

As cities grew and developed, oysters became integral to the culture and economy of coastal towns, particularly in places like New York City and San Francisco. The development of oyster bars became a social hub for locals and visitors alike, leading to the establishment of iconic eateries that continue to thrive today.

In recent years, sustainability has become a key focus in oyster farming and harvesting. With the decline of natural oyster beds due to pollution and overfishing, many oysters are now farmed responsibly, contributing to healthier marine ecosystems while still providing a delicious dining experience.

Celebrating National Oyster Day is not just about enjoying this delicacy; it’s also an opportunity to educate ourselves about the environmental challenges oysters face and to support sustainable seafood practices. Whether you prefer them raw, grilled, or baked, oysters offer a unique taste of the ocean that is best enjoyed fresh.