They say the best months for oysters are the ones that end in “r”: September, October, November, and December.

Because oysters are now grown year round, that isn’t totally correct. You can get an oyster whenever your heart desires.

But in the South, specifically South Carolina (the Lowcountry is hands down one of the best places to get Southern oysters), there is an oyster season everyone pays attention to: November through early February is the best time to attend an oyster roast.

You could host your own oyster roast—you’ll need oysters, an outdoor table, gloves, oyster knives, hot sauce, and crackers—or you can just join the fun at a pre-planned roast. Below, we rounded up the best oyster roasts to go to in South Carolina this year.

The Charleston Animal Society Chili Cook-off & Oyster Roast
November 17, 2018
North Charleston, South Carolina

Kick off the season in North Charleston with the Charleston Animal Society. The Riverfront Park location is too picturesque to pass up, and the bounty of oysters, chili, and live music makes for an absolutely unreal, Southern afternoon.

 

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South Carolina Oyster Festival
November 18, 2018
Columbia, South Carolina

Enjoy some more oysters and Southern festivities in Columbia. Hosted at the Robert Mills House and Gardens, the South Carolina Oyster Festival has been going on for decades. This year, in fact, marks the 21st oyster roast. There’s wine and ice-cold beer all day, but don’t forget your lawn chairs, blankets, and an oyster knife or two!

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Lowcountry Oyster Festival
January 27, 2019
Charleston, South Carolina

There’s something to be said for the “world’s largest oyster festival.” Live music, wine, and an oyster eating contest all make appearance at the rain-or-shine event. Located at the famous Boone Hall (where “The Notebook” was filmed), the Lowcountry Oyster Festival is something every Southerner should experience at least once.

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Bowens Island Restaurant
All season
Charleston, South Carolina

Can’t make any of the above dates? Not to worry. Seafood restaurant Bowens Island provides freshly caught oysters from September through the beginning of May. Enjoy them by the half or full tray, or as many as you can eat.

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