The Galway Oyster Festival is the world’s longest running annual oyster festival. Taking place each September, last year it attracted over 22000 visitors to the city. Created by Galway city hotelier Brian Collins 59 years ago. A massive 3 million oysters have been enjoyed at the festival over those years. This year’s oyster fun takes place from  26th-29th September 2013. A packed programme is running throughout the Festival dates. The heart of Galway city will come alive with a New Orleans style Madi Gras Masqued Carnival of masked revellers,  led by lively band. This carnival visits three venues,  where oysters and other seafood shall be consumed with gusto, and live performance will continue to the wee small hours! Not to be missed. Alongside all the festival happenings, there are also Good Food Ireland’s numerous approved providers to visit. Each will be taking part in the celebrations throughout the festival. Kai Restaurant is the current holder of the Good Food Ireland Food Lover’s Choice award for 2013. Loved for its funky ambience and off the wall cooking with local produce by Jess Murphy, owner and Head Chef. A Michelin star experience beckons at Aniar Restaurant. Super smart pub grub from Aniar’s sibling establishment, Eat@Massimo. Further up town, The King’s Head pub is rich with history and serves up a great plateful of gastro delights. To the rear, and entered via the pub or through it’s own separate entrance, The Malthouse Restaurant provides casual chic dining with the best in local and regional specialities. When you’re ready to put your head down for the night, (who knows what time that could be?!)  no finer spot than Sorcha Molloy’s Heron’s Rest boutique bed and breakfast. Here, luxury accommodation and superlative breakfasts come in a townhouse setting right on the Claddagh. Rooms with views!  Everything is within a few moments walk. . Check our Latest News on the home page for more festival details. Advance booking essential for all these venues during this busy time!