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
- 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
- Prizes awarded to the top finishers
- Spectators welcome