Colchester’s historic Oyster Feast will return on Friday, 23 October 2026, bringing together residents, dignitaries and guests for one of the city’s most cherished civic traditions.
Celebrating a historic civic tradition
First held in 1845, the Oyster Feast remains a highlight of Colchester’s civic calendar, celebrating the city’s rich heritage, strong community spirit and longstanding connection to the world-famous Colchester native oyster.
First held in 1845, the Oyster Feast remains a highlight of Colchester’s civic calendar, celebrating the city’s rich heritage, strong community spirit and longstanding connection to the world-famous Colchester native oyster.
Hosted by the Mayor and Mayoress of Colchester, Cllr Andrew Ellis and Mrs Nicky Ellis, the event will take place in the historic Moot Hall at Colchester Town Hall. Guests will enjoy an afternoon of fine dining, entertainment and civic hospitality, continuing a tradition that has been enjoyed for generations.
In keeping with custom, attendees will have the opportunity to sample Colchester’s renowned oysters, while a specially prepared multi-course menu from Milsom Catering will ensure there is something for everyone. The ceremonial arrival of guests, welcomed by the Colchester Town Watch, will once again help set the scene for this unique occasion, before an afternoon of guest speakers, musical performances and civic hospitality.
Special guests and entertainment
This year’s programme continues the Oyster Feast tradition of welcoming notable guests from the worlds of culture and the arts who have links to Colchester. Attendees will hear from acclaimed chef and restaurateur Tom Booton and award-winning magician and Vice President of The Magic Circle Michael J. Fitch, who will share their experiences and entertain guests during the afternoon.
This year’s programme continues the Oyster Feast tradition of welcoming notable guests from the worlds of culture and the arts who have links to Colchester. Attendees will hear from acclaimed chef and restaurateur Tom Booton and award-winning magician and Vice President of The Magic Circle Michael J. Fitch, who will share their experiences and entertain guests during the afternoon.
Guests will also enjoy a special performance from the Crunchy Frog Players, alongside musical entertainment from music school Play Strings Academy, pianist Francis Garland and the Camulodunum Brass Ensemble, ensuring an afternoon of insight, celebration and entertainment.
Making the Feast more accessible
This year’s Feast was made more accessible thanks to the generous support of local sponsors, enabling tickets allocated through the public ballot to be offered at a significantly reduced price. The initiative helped more local residents experience one of Colchester’s most cherished civic traditions.
This year’s Feast was made more accessible thanks to the generous support of local sponsors, enabling tickets allocated through the public ballot to be offered at a significantly reduced price. The initiative helped more local residents experience one of Colchester’s most cherished civic traditions.
Mayor celebrates Colchester’s civic pride
The Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Andrew Ellis, said: “The Oyster Feast is one of the most enduring and distinctive traditions in our city, bringing together people from across our communities to celebrate Colchester’s history, identity and civic pride.
The Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Andrew Ellis, said: “The Oyster Feast is one of the most enduring and distinctive traditions in our city, bringing together people from across our communities to celebrate Colchester’s history, identity and civic pride.
“I was particularly keen to make this year’s Feast more accessible to local people, and I’m extremely grateful to our sponsors for helping us reduce the cost of tickets for residents. I would like to thank R. F. West Ltd, Tollgate Partnership Ltd, Anglian Flight Centres, Colne Valley Group, Ellisons, Fenwick, Lion Walk Shopping Centre, and Surya Hotels Ltd.
“It is a privilege to host this year’s Feast and continue a tradition that has been enjoyed for more than 180 years. I look forward to welcoming our guests and celebrating everything that makes Colchester such a special place.”
Ticket information
Tickets for the 2026 Oyster Feast were allocated through a public ballot, which has now closed. Successful applicants have been notified.
Tickets for the 2026 Oyster Feast were allocated through a public ballot, which has now closed. Successful applicants have been notified.
For more information about the Mayor, visit: www.colchester.gov.uk/mayor