Manchester Oyster Festival 2026

OYSTERS TAKE OVER KAMPUS AS MANCHESTER’S MOST UNIQUE FOOD FESTIVAL RETURNS

Following a hugely successful debut, the Manchester Oyster Festival is set to return in September 2026 for a one-day celebration dedicated to oysters. This year, the festival takes over the vibrant outdoor destination KAMPUS, bringing together some of Manchester’s most exciting food names, live entertainment, speciality drinks from our bar partner NELL'S, and - of course - thousands of oysters. After welcoming 250 guests in its inaugural year, the 2026 edition promises an even bigger experience, with more traders, more live action, and plenty more oysters on offer. Sponsored by Sapling Spirits and Chateau Minuty, all ticket holders will receive a tasty welcome drink and VIP tickets include a wine masterclass.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• FREE oysters all night – all your oysters included in the ticket, with live shuckers, a toppings bar & infamous seafood merchants bringing different varieties of the UK’s finest oysters all under one roof!

• Oyster Shucking Competition – chefs and enthusiasts will will battle it out live to be crowned Manchester’s Fastest Shucker.

• Best Dressed Oyster – local favourite restaurants will present inventive oyster creations, judged on flavour and presentation by a panel of renowned foodie personalities - the esteemed judges include Matty White (@mcrsfinest), Leon Challice Davies (Eat Wild), Bobby Groves (Bobby's Oysters) and more.

• Independent Traders – guests can explore a curated lineup of local traders selling snacks, oyster themed art, homewares, and merchandise throughout the day.

• Speciality Bar – local legend Nell’s will be heading up the festival bar, serving cold pints, margs, and of course, Guinness. 

• Live Music & DJ Sets – live music adds a soundtrack to the festivities early evening, and then a DJ until 9pm. 

• The UK’s first Oyster Luge - debuted at our Oyster Supperclub in May, the sculptured ice luge was a BIG hit for oyster fans. 

• Panel talks & VIP Masterclasses - A range of educational and entertaining moments from Oyster experts, Oyster suppliers, and wine producers will happen throughout the day.

• Industry hour – From 4–5pm, we're inviting hospitality and food & drink professionals to meet the oyster growers supplying the festival, including Richard Haward, Rossmore, Atlantic Edge and Maldon, alongside representatives from our sponsors Sapling Spirits and Château Minuty. It's an opportunity to network, discover new suppliers, sample products, and make valuable industry connections. If you'd like to attend, please email terri@matecreative.com for more information. Please note this does not give you access to the main festival.

The festival highlights Manchester as a thriving city of food culture. Visitors can expect a lively and welcoming atmosphere, distinct from the formality usually associated with oyster dining. 

Event Details

 📍 KAMPUS, 42 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3GL

 📅 Saturday 5th September 2026, 5pm - 9pm

 🎟 Tickets: GA from £35, VIP with masterclass from £45

 www.oystersoysters.com