NORTHUMBERLAND—Since 2007, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Heathsville has sponsored its annual Oysters & Oldies Christmas Oyster Roast. This popular community event draws hundreds from across the Northern Neck and beyond to enjoy local, wild caught oysters roasted over oak fires or freshly shucked with a selection of gourmet dipping sauces.
Save room for St. Stephen’s signature Oyster Roast Chili or grilled all-beef hot dogs with all the trimmings. A variety of homemade brownies and cookies, and soft drinks complete the menu. Wine and a selection of Virginia craft beers are also available. In 2020, the pandemic forced cancellation of the event, which raises funds for St. Stephen’s community outreach donations.
With the easing of health restrictions this summer, St. Stephen’s is sponsoring Oysters & Oldies from 12:30-3:30 p.m. December 4 at Roanoke Farm, 6108 Northumberland Highway, Heathsville. Tickets are $35; only 300 tickets will be sold. Ages 12 and younger are free.
“We’re planning the oyster roast in a way that will be safe and enjoyable. The event is outdoors with plenty of spaced out tables to assure social distancing,” said organizer Bill Kirby. “St. Stephen’s is pleased to be able to welcome folks to a family friendly event where there is something for everyone!”
While the theme of Oysters & Oldies is obviously devoted to oysters and food, historic Roanoke Farm and its picturesque grounds and gardens provides the perfect backdrop for a traditional oyster roast.
Recognized as a “Virginia Century Farm,” Roanoke is owned by A. Mason Brent and has been in the Brent family for more than 160 years. Roanoke spans 600 acres north and south of Route 360 in Heathsville. It is one of 15 farms in Northumberland County that have been designated Century Farms—one that has been in operation for at least 100 consecutive years. Roanoke’s original one-and-a-half story cottage dates from the middle of the 18th century, and the main three-and-a-half-story home was built in the first quarter of the 19th century.
Early December can be a perfect time to stroll the gardens of Roanoke, enjoy a glass of wine or Virginia craft beer and “rock around the Christmas tree” to original oldies favorites.
Net proceeds from Oysters & Oldies benefit St. Stephen’s community outreach donations. Since its inception in 2007 the event has raised over $120,000 for community organizations, thanks in large part to the continued support of the many attendees for whom Oysters & Oldies has become an annual tradition.
Tickets are available at ststephensheathsville.org/oyster-roast or in St. Stephen’s Thrift Shop adjacent to the church in Heathsville.
