I was planning a few days in Galway in September and realized that I would be there during "oyster fest." Can anyone tell me if this is a huge event? In other words, should I go somewhere else? It would mean not seeing the area, not just reorganzing. . . Thanks -

You wouldn't want to incorporate the oyster fest into your plans, since you'd be there already?

Possibly, I am fond of oysters but less fond of big crowds. If it will be really busy (significantly more than the usual summer tourist population of which I will be a part!) we probably wouldn't really enjoy it.

From what I've read about the Galway International Oyster Festival (haven't been there, myself), past attendance has been upwards of 10,000 people.

A search on Google brought up quite a few websites that discuss the festival's history. In case you are interested in this year's schedule of events, here's the website:

http://www.galwayoysterfest.com/

Thanks so much!

We will also be in Ireland during the festival and chose to exclude GAlway until after it is over.
I read the tickets to the event (competions and Galas) run around $75 per ticket.
Also...if you dont have accomodations already set in Galway you most likely wouldnt be able to find any too close.
Buy ya a pint if our roads cross!!

Actually, it is a pretty huge event in Galway. It's a good reason to bypass the city if you're not into the festival and the celebration.

Thanks to you all. I hope we meet for a Guinness somewhere along the way.

According to some of the things I have read, GuestHouses jack up their prices considerably during the Oyster Fest.

One person who had so called 'confirmed reservations' at an agreed upon price arrived and was told that the price was double what they had been quoted.

We also made the decision to bypass Galway during the Oyster Festival. Just too many people- don't want to have to wait for that Guinness! I think we are in Ireland during the same time you are, Madisonjulie, as well. Do you have your itinarary posted?

Not yet - still working on the details (since I will be bypassing the Oyster festival ) but will soon!

We are planning to be in Ireland Sept. 19-28 When is the oyster fest? Also wondering where to stay first day - will arrive in Shannon around 8a.m. Should we drive a ways or stay in close by for the first couple days? We are planning to rent a car and drive along the coast. Can you help with a tentative itinerary? We are VERY flexible. Thanks.

This year, the Galway International Oyster Festival is from Thursday 25 Sept through Sunday 28 Sept.

http://www.galwayoysterfest.com/