Long Island at sunset — Photo courtesy of HitchsterDoes the freshest seafood taste even fresher when you're sharing it with a lover? At the Annual Long Island Oyster Festival the answer is unequivocally: yes. Thousands of different preparations created by the best chefs and seafood specialists line the boardwalk in Oyster Bay, NY. The two of you can stroll and enjoy the view while dining on oysters on the half shell, lobster or clam chowder. And these are just a few of options in the bounty al mar. If you get thirsty, enjoy conveniently located beer gardens.
The Long Island Oyster Festival features an arts and craft fair, a petting zoo, a historically registered fireboat dating back to 1931, a schooner, live music and contests, and even a full carnival with rides, games and prizes.
Transportation is easy on the Long Island Railroad. Take the Oyster Bay Branch to be dropped off in the middle of the festival or the Port Jefferson Branch to Syosset Station where free shuttles will pick you up. Train schedules and routes are available on the MTA website. Driving is also a great option and the Long Island Oyster Festival offers free parking lots with shuttles to the boardwalk.
With well over 200,00 attendees last year, the 2012 event should be a raging success. Check it out October 13-14. The two of you can determine for yourselves if all the sayings about oysters are true.
