Guide To: The Oyster Festival in Oyster Bay, New York

Raw, fried or in a stew - the oyster is the star of the annual Oyster Festival each October in Oyster Bay, New York. The shellfish must have lots of fans. According to the official website, Oyster Bay's Oyster Festival is one of the largest waterfront festivals on the East Coast, bringing more than 200,000 people to Oyster Bay, Long Island each year.

The Oyster Festival initially started as a parade to honor President Teddy Roosevelt, who lived in Oyster Bay. For a while, it was held in the downtown area. A few years ago, organizers moved the Oyster Bay Oyster Festival to Theodore Roosevelt Park, right next to Oyster Bay Harbor. Some attractions extend to the downtown area, but most of it is held in the park - where there is plenty to eat, do and see.

For example: there are oyster eating and oyster shucking (opening) contests. Plus, there's a big tent where they sell oysters on the half shell. Every year I've gone, there's been a long line for those raw oysters but the line seems to move quickly. I usually eat oyster stew while I wait.

Even if you don't like oysters, you certainly won't be hungry at the Oyster Festival. They have lots of typical carnival fare - such as fried Oreos, popcorn and sausage. Local schools and sports leagues often have their own booths at the Oyster Festival, selling things like apple pie to raise money. According to this press release, the Oyster Festival is a major fund raiser for local causes and non-profit organizations.

There are also arts and crafts booths, rides, pirates, tall ships, and treasure hunts to keep the kids occupied. The Oyster Festival can be fun for the whole family, click here for the official website with this year's dates.

But before you go - here's one important tip: don't drive. I've done it a couple of times but the traffic was horrendous and parking was nearly impossible to find.

Instead of driving, the Oyster Bay Long Island Railroad station is right by the Oyster Festival and is a great option if you're traveling from New York City. Or, you can take one of the free shuttle buses. I highly recommend these. You can find out where the stops are: here. Also, some people come by boat, which sounds like fun.

Whichever way you travel, come hungry and be ready to have a great time at the Oyster Bay Oyster Festival.