The inaugural North Carolina Oyster & Seafood Celebration is taking place November 4-5 at acclaimed restaurant Seabird – a sustainable seafood restaurant and oyster bar devoted to celebrating North Carolina’s coast through daily-changing menus featuring local fishers, farmers, and foragers. The two-day seafood experience follows the official start of wild oyster season while celebrating the State’s renowned coastal foodways, fishermen and women and sustainable seafood practices.

The multi-event celebration will feature special guest Julie Qiu, Oyster Sommelier and Co-founder of the Oyster Master Guild, who will lead educational experiences designed for both industry professionals and discerning diners seeking to deepen their appreciation for North Carolina’s exceptional oyster offerings.

Event Schedule:

Tuesday, November 4th
Farmed Oyster Dinner with Oyster Master Guild: The evening begins at 6pm with an introduction to oyster appreciation by renowned Oyster Sommelier Julie Qiu, followed by presentations from local oyster farmers sharing insights into their craft, challenges, and passion for sustainable aquaculture. Guests will taste a curated selection of oysters from across North Carolina, paired with carefully selected wines. The experience concludes with a multi-course seafood dinner.

Wednesday, November 5th
Oyster Class (Noon-2:30 PM): Julie Qiu will lead an intensive educational session designed specifically for oyster farmers, hospitality professionals and passionate enthusiasts, providing advanced knowledge and techniques for oyster service and appreciation.

Wild Oyster Chef’s Table Experience with Oyster Sommelier Julie Qiu and Coastal Forager Ana Shellem (5:00-7:15 PM): An exclusive, intimate dining experience at Seabird’s 8-seat Chef’s Table, focusing on wild oysters through a specially curated tasting menu. This elevated experience offers diners direct interaction with Chef Neff, Julie Qiu, Ana Shellem, and guests as they explore the nuances of wild North Carolina oysters.

Reservations for these events can be made through OpenTable!