The 54th Guinness Galway International Oyster Festival officially kicked off on Monday 1st September, marking the first day of the oyster season and the start of the hunt for this year's Oyster Pearl. This year's festival took place over four fun-filled days and nights, kicking off on Thursday 25 September with the Mardi Gras Party in the marquee and the Guinness Irish Oyster Opening Championships in The Kings Head. The festival then wraped up on Sunday with the Farewell Party at Nimmo's Pier.

On Saturday night, the Oyster Festival Gala Ball was a gourmet experience of exquisite food and wines. The night started with a champagne reception and enjoyment guaranteed by the famous Saturday Night Cabaret featuring the Marc & the full band.

The prize package for this year's Oyster Pearl was very attractive, with the lucky lady Laura Doyle from Mervue,  presiding over all of the festival events. Laura also received a beautiful string of cultured pearls, a cheque for €500, a specially commissioned crystal trophy, a Lancôme Presentation Coffret, Aer Arann travel vouchers, an elegant watch from Fallers Jewellers and a Bellissimo Pamper Hamper. She was selected at a gala banquet hosted by  Marc in The Ardilaun Hotel on Thursday 11 September.

<Click on pictures to enlarge>

Marc with the previous Oyster Pearl winners & this years winner Laura Doyle

"It's a tough job but somebody's gotta do it!"

Marc with the adjudicators Miriam Hand, Jacinta O'Brien & Rory Murphy