Colchester’s historic Oyster Feast will return to the Moot Hall on Friday, 24 October 2025, marking a much-anticipated homecoming for one of the city’s most cherished civic traditions.
First held in 1845, the Oyster Feast is a cornerstone of Colchester’s civic calendar – celebrating the city’s heritage, community spirit, and culinary history. Following recent restoration works at the Town Hall, this year’s Feast returns to its traditional setting in the Moot Hall, where the Mayor and Mayoress of Colchester, Cllr Michael Lilley and Alderman Lyn Barton, will welcome residents, dignitaries, and invited guests.
In time‑honoured custom, the Mayor will join attendees in sampling Colchester’s famous oysters. Guests will also enjoy an afternoon of dining and entertainment, featuring a five‑course meal (oysters optional) prepared by Milsom Catering and fine wines from Mr.Wheeler, echoing the Feast’s longstanding reputation for hospitality and excellence.
As in previous years, the Colchester Town Watch will greet arriving guests and help set the ceremonial tone for the day. This year’s programme reflects the Feast’s tradition of welcoming speakers from public life, the arts, and the wider community: acclaimed musician and writer Martin Newell; award-winning producer and pantomime dame Antony Stuart-Hicks, and Anthony Roberts, the director and artistic driving force behind Colchester Arts Centre. There will also be performances from Play Strings Academy quartet, pianist Francis Garland, and city organist William Saunders, ensuring an afternoon of insight, inspiration, and entertainment.
The Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Michael Lilley, said: “The Oyster Feast is Colchester at its best – bringing people together to honour our history, celebrate our communities, and showcase the city we are proud to call home.
“Returning to the beautifully restored Moot Hall makes this year’s Feast especially meaningful. I look forward to welcoming our guests, raising a glass to our shared future, and, of course, enjoying Colchester’s finest oysters.”
Tickets were offered to residents via a ballot, which has now closed. Successful applicants have been notified.
Page last reviewed: 15 October 2025