Falmouth Oyster Festival 2025 Line-Up Announced

Published On: 3 October 2025Last Updated: 3 October 2025By CornishStuff

Falmouth Oyster Festival is returning from 9th–12th October 2025 with what organisers are calling its most ambitious programme to date, marking a major milestone in the festival’s proud 29-year history.

A highlight of Cornwall’s event calendar, this free, four-day celebration honours the start of the oyster dredging season and Falmouth’s rich maritime heritage.

A Festival Steeped in Tradition

The festival pays homage to the centuries-old practice of oyster harvesting, where local oystermen use only sail and oar aboard traditional working boats. These methods are protected by ancient bylaws to safeguard the riverbed’s delicate ecosystem. Falmouth remains Europe’s last native oyster fishery where such practices are not just tradition but a legal requirement.

Food, Drink and Live Demonstrations

Visitors can expect a seasonal showcase of Cornwall’s finest food and drink, with street food stalls, artisan produce, interactive masterclasses, live talks, panel discussions and children’s entertainment.

The popular Chef’s Theatre returns to Falmouth’s Events Square as the hub for cookery demonstrations and live music, all free to attend. Over 20 chefs are set to take to the stage, including Stephane Delourme, Charlie Walters (Narla), Annie Seabourne (My Fish Kitchen), Hylton Espey (Culture), Pete Murt (The Seafood Restaurant), Elliot Kett (Kelp Canteen), Chris Eden (Watergate Bay Hotel), Jude Kereama (KOTA & KOTA KAI) and Ben Palmer (The Sardine Factory).

Evening Entertainment

Ticketed evening events will feature performances from Johnny Cowling & Jailhouse, Falmouth Soul Sensation, Falmouth Gospel Choir, The Quartermasters and Flats & Sharps. Festival favourites also return, including the Oyster Shucking competition, Working Boat Race and a live performance from The Oggymen.

New Additions for 2025

For the first time, Falmouth’s Princess Pavilion joins as a second festival venue, hosting a packed line-up of activities, including a live performance from Seth Lakeman.

Marine artist Jamie Medlin will give painting demonstrations, while Elliot Kett will host a panel discussion exploring the culture, tradition and sustainability of Falmouth’s oyster fishery.

Children can enjoy Sam O’Shanty’s Puppet Show and Miracle Theatre’s interactive Squirrel Society challenge game, which is ticketed.

Masterclasses and Book Events

Festivalgoers can take part in hands-on masterclasses, from oyster shucking and ceviche making to wine tasting and cocktail shaking.

A series of ‘In Conversation’ evenings are also available to book, featuring authors Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Fern Britton and Rukmini Iyer, hosted in collaboration with Falmouth Book Festival.