Oyster-eating competition, social media campaign, and “My First Oyster” trophy highlight National Oyster Day celebration

PANAMA CITY, FL – In celebration of National Oyster Day on August 5, Destination Panama City is teaming up with the iconic Hunt’s Oyster Bar in Historic St. Andrews to honor the region’s deep-rooted oyster heritage with a flavorful campaign and live competition.

Beginning July 25, the “Twelve Days, Twelve Ways to Oyster” campaign will highlight a dozen different oyster preparations from restaurants along the Panama City Oyster Trail. Featured spots will include local favorites such as Gene’s Oyster Bar in Millville, Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill, and more, showcasing the unique styles and flavors that define this coastal culinary tradition.

“Panama City is a coastal community with a deep connection to our Bay and the Gulf,” said Jennifer Vigil, President and CEO of Destination Panama City. “People come from all over the world to enjoy the bounty of our waters, and oysters are at the heart of that experience. Whether you’re slurping your first oyster or your five-hundredth, our Oyster Trail is a celebration of both tradition and taste—from the raw bar to Rockefeller.”

This year, Hunt’s Oyster Bar is continuing its beloved “My First Oyster” tradition, where first-time oyster eaters receive a commemorative trophy to mark the occasion. The playful initiative reflects Panama City’s hospitality and its passion for preserving local flavor.

“Serving oysters is what we do, and watching someone try their first one never gets old,” said Collins Abrams, co-owner of Hunt’s Oyster Bar. “From first-timers to competitive eaters, there’s no better place to celebrate oysters than right here in Historic St. Andrews.”

The festivities will culminate on August 5 with the Panama City Oyster Eating Competition, a fast-paced contest where selected participants will go head-to-head to see who can slurp the most raw oysters in five minutes. Entry is open to the public via a social media contest.

To enter for a chance to compete:

• Like the Destination Panama City and Hunt’s Oyster Bar Facebook pages
• Comment on the official contest post with your location and how many oysters you
  believe you can eat in five minutes

Contestants must be available to compete in person at Hunt’s Oyster Bar in Panama City, Florida, on August 5, 2025. Winners will receive prizes, bragging rights, and, quite possibly, a new fan club.

Whether you’re following along on social media, competing for oyster glory, or simply enjoying a dozen on the half shell, National Oyster Day in Panama City promises to be a shuck-worthy celebration.