Oyster Eating Contest in Panama City, Florida
Hunt’s Oyster Bar
August 5, 2026 at 4:30 PM
Each August, oyster lovers gather in Panama City for one of the most anticipated events of the year: the annual Oyster Eating Contest at Hunt’s Oyster Bar. Held in celebration of National Oyster Day, competitors race against the clock to see who can eat the most fresh Gulf oysters in just five minutes while spectators cheer them on.
Whether you’re stepping up to compete or simply watching the action unfold, the Oyster Eating Contest is a uniquely Panama City tradition that celebrates the city’s deep connection to fresh Gulf seafood and its generations-long oyster culture.
How the Contest Works
- Enter for a chance to compete in the annual Oyster Eating Contest.
- Selected competitors will be contacted by Destination Panama City one week before the event.
- Competitors have five minutes to eat as many fresh oysters as possible.
- Five-minute timed competition
- Fresh Gulf oysters provided
- Official judges tally each competitor’s total
- Spectators welcome
Register to Compete
Applications for this year’s Oyster Eating Competition have officially closed, but the fun is just getting started!
Head to Hunt’s Oyster Bar on Wednesday, August 5, to cheer on the competitors as they battle for oyster bragging rights. With three fast-paced heats, plenty of excitement, and an energetic crowd, it’s one of the most entertaining ways to celebrate National Oyster Day in Panama City.