Virginia City to go balls out at 33rd Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry and St. Paddy's Day celebration
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Wed, 02/21/2024 - 9:55am
Event Date:
March 16, 2024 (All day)
As one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the west, Virginia City’s 33rd annual Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry makes its triumphant return Saturday, March 16 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Accompanied by the St. Paddy Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. and the traditional St. Patrick’s Day Parade beginning at noon, the all-day event promises to be a ball-filled extravaganza like no other.
Attendees can indulge in unique delicacies, live music and plenty of activities for families and adults around historic Virginia City. Interested guests can purchase individual tickets or tasting packages online here. For more information about the Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry or other Virginia City events, visit visitvirginiacitynv.com.
“Our St. Patrick’s Day celebration, including the Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry, is one of our favorite traditions that brings together the community to celebrate the luckiest holiday in a quirky and festive way,” said Todd Tuttle, director of the Virginia City Tourism Commission. “As we head into our 33rd year, we are thrilled for attendees to experience the unforgettable variety of activities, from the mouthwatering oyster fry and lively saloon crawl to our vibrant parade. The day offers something for everyone and we invite the community to participate whether it’s by walking in the parade or cooking in the oyster fry — this is truly an event for everyone.”
The highlight of the festivities is the opportunity to taste a variety of iconic Rocky Mountain Oysters which will be served from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. or when supplies run out. These eccentric bites, also known as prairie oysters, are a true western tradition and are prepared by talented local cooks, competing for the coveted titles of ‘Best Of’ and ‘People’s Choice.’ For chefs up for a challenge, registration is open for cooks to show off their culinary skills and create their own tasty teste batches in a friendly competition.
Outside of the oyster fry, guests can wash down those amaze-balls with themed drinks as part of the St. Paddy Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl, running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Crawlers will receive a cup that grants access to a variety of Irish-themed drinks and sweet treats at Virginia City’s participating historic saloons. As an added bonus, all crawlers will receive discounts on full specialty drink orders and are encouraged to dress to impress in their most festive (or outlandish) St. Paddy’s Day garb for a chance to win the costume contest.
After the event, attendees can vote for their favorite cocktail and saloon. Offers are also available for designated drivers who will receive special swag, sweet treats and will be entered into a drawing for a $75 Maverick gas card.
To add to the excitement, the traditional St. Patrick’s Day Parade will kick off at noon, featuring colorful floats, bagpipe players and community groups. The parade route will wind through C Street providing festive entertainment for all guests at Virginia City’s historic saloons and shops. Eager participants can sign up to be a part of the parade by completing the entry form available here.
For more information on Virginia City or the Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, visit their website at visitvirginiacitynv.com, call Virginia City Tourism Commission at 775-847-7500 or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
