Author Jonathan Swift once noted, “He was a bold man that did first eat an oyster”. Since 1957, the Irish hometown of the world-famous Ostrea Edulis oyster has celebrated its delicious crop with the four-day Galway International Oyster Festival. The mainstay is Ireland’s best-known beer, Guinness, paired with the plump, salty European flat oyster grown in the nearby bay. Locals ensure there are baskets full of crusty homemade brown bread to sop up the oyster juices with – all in all a combination that’s hard to match. However festival organizers give the food a run for its money (and keep in mind the festival is free), by ensuring the entertainment appeals to all senses, not just your stomach. Enjoy live Irish music dedicated to the aphrodisiac qualities of the shellfish, comedy nights and oyster diving contests. The festivities set the stage for a worldwide gathering of expert oyster openers (shuckers) competing for a new Guinness World Record. Only one competitor can walk away with a world record, but there is plenty of Guinness to go around. Other highlights include the Oyster Festival Gala Ball, and an Elegant Lady competition. Of course, the juicy oyster is center stage through it all, yum.