The cool breeze, changing leaves, and fresh oysters await you in Virginia’s River Realm this November. The fall is our favorite time of the year around here for many reasons. The most important is that it is one of the best times to enjoy local oysters. Wild oysters spawn during the summer, which means they’re ready for eating during the fall months. The good news is that farmed oysters are bred so that they do not spawm and spend most of their energy growing. While you can enjoy oysters year round, these lively and inspiring events are the perfect excuse to getaway with your partner, your girl friends, and your family.
Here are four festivals you must make time to visit in November 2019. You’ll want to stay after your festival adventures. We’ve recommended the perfect spot to rest your head for each festival weekend. Dive into our local heritage, feed your inner foodie and relax by the water for a weekend…
#1 Urbanna Oyster Festival
November 1-2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Town of Urbanna, VA
This is the official Oyster Festival of the Commonwealth! Join more than 60,000 attendees as they walk the streets of Urbanna for everything “oyster.” During the Urbanna Oyster Festival you’ll take in parades, art, oyster shucking contest, children’s activities, antique car show, music and Virginia wine and craft beer tastings. If you’re a true foodie, take advantage of the new VIP Oyster Lovers ticket experience, which includes six beer tastings, six wine tastings, six oyster tastings, hospitality seating, a commemorative anniversary poster and more.
Cost: This is a walking pay-as-you-go festival, but you will need to pay for parking. Friday Parking fee is $10.00 and Saturday parking fee is $20.00. The VIP oyster experience is $100.
Where to Shop and Eat: Treat yo’self to a shopping trip to Cyndy’s Bynn and Lowe Tide Boutique. Grab a big, satisfying dinner at Something Different Cafe or Portside Grill on Urbanna Creek on your way out of town.
#2 Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail Oyster Crawl
November, 9-10, 12 to 4 p.m.
Various Participating Wineries
Tour our enchanting scenic region as you sample wine and a variety of oyster specialties at eight wineries along the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail. Each participating winery will offer unique pairings for you to enjoy in their tasting room. Learn about the oysters of our region and share your experience with friends. Start your crawl at Oak Crest Vineyard and work your way to Good Luck Cellars and Dog & Oyster Vineyard. Learn more here.
Cost: Normal wine tasting fees apply. Oysters will be available for purchase.
Where to Stay and Indulge: If you follow our plan, your last stop will be at Dog & Oyster Vineyard, just a few miles from Hope & Glory Inn. The boutique hotel and restaurant is a must see.
#3 Taste by the Bay-Wine, Arts and Ale
November 23, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tides Inn, Irvington, VA
This highly anticipated sixth-year event will include samplings from Virginia wineries, Virginia craft brews, tastings from local restaurants, live music, maritime attractions, and just in time for the holiday shopping season–a variety of artisan vendors. Wineries and restaurants alike will be offering tastings, as well as the option to purchase some of our local foodie favorites like oyster tacos from Byrd Seafood. Learn more…….
Cost: Tickets are $30, which get you samples of all food. Must purchase wine and beer. Purchase Tickets here.
Where to Explore and Stay: The Tides Inn will be the perfect place to wake up and hit the festival, after breakfast in bed, of course! Retreat to your room for a nap in the afternoon before you head out to explore the charming town of Irvington. Stop by Objects & More for inspiring art finds or grab a glass at Vine, Irvington’s newest wine bar; enjoy a seafood dinner or nightcap at the Dredge.
#4 Holiday Gift Market
November 26, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Deltaville Maritime Museum
Bypass the holiday crowds at the malls and meander through this River Realm holiday gift destination. As you weave your way from booth after booth at the Holiday Gift Market, you’ll discover well crafted hand-made gifts including produce, local cheeses and meats, honey, soaps, baked goods, quilts, jewelry, artwork, wooden bowls, and clothing. During your shopping adventure, enjoy the scenery of the waterfront nature park atmosphere and talk directly to the local artisans who call the area home and create the gifts you’ll give to family and friends. The museum will also be open to view exhibits. Climb aboard the historic F.D. Crockett for a deadrise boat tour and take a stroll through the Holly Point nature trails after your leisurely day of shopping. The Bistro will be available for delicious food selections.
Cost: Free, except for the gifts, of course!
Where to Eat and Stay: Grab a gourmet meal at The Table at Wilton or your fresh seafood and craft beer at Deltaville Tap & Raw Bar. Relax and unwind at Heaven Scent B & B, enjoy a fresh organic breakfast on the screened in porch and bring fido for company! If your looking for a historic place to rest your head, Wilton House is a must destination for lovers of old homes. It is the perfect romantic weekend retreat. Wilton House was the seat of the Churchill family and the center of their vast landholdings between the Piankatank and Rappahannock Rivers
For more great things to do in the River Realm, check out our Events calendar!
Just two hours from Richmond or Hampton Roads, 3 hours from Washington DC, Virginia’s River Realm is a tourism destination along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary, the Rappahannock River. We invite visitors to explore delightful surprises, hidden gems and our friendly, small town spirit. The 465 miles of shoreline, eight great small towns, and hundreds of unique attractions will mesmerizes you to enjoy the wonder of a perfect oyster, the promise of a secret cove or back road and the pleasure of sharing a table with friends, a place where you can catch your breath, calm your mind & live your dreams.
