An evening eating oysters and mussels by the pond in Sète, the Ostrea Fiesta is back strong

More than a thousand people are expected in this idyllic setting. DR

The Ostrea Fiesta, or the oyster festival, brings together seafood aficionados on Saturday July 13. The tasting takes place in the idyllic setting of the Barrou district, on the edge of the Thau pond.

Created in 2013, the Ostrea Fiesta is preparing to hold its annual banquet on Saturday July 13. More than a thousand people are expected on the Bir-Hakeim maquis square on the Barrou peninsula. They can enjoy oysters, mussels, grilled fish, and even cold meats and cheese.

The festivities begin at 5 p.m. with a cart jousting tournament for children. It is run by Régis Balana, former emblematic president of the Quartier du Barrou association and behind Ostrea Fiesta. There is also a DJ who entertains the whole evening to the rhythm of the hits of the year and French variety.

A spirit of conviviality

This oyster festival is no longer limited to seafood as in the past. The reason: a growing reputation which requires a more varied gastronomic palette. "We started little by little, and now it's a celebration that is recognized", welcomes Hélène Roube, president of the Quartier du Barrou association in charge of the event. She explains this public enthusiasm by the "renewed interest in oysters", and by the simple fact “of wanting to have a good time with friends in a fantastic setting". 
The Ostrea Fiesta has evolved over time. In its early years, the products consumed came only from the Etang de Thau. "Now, we are bringing in traders because the old ones have aged. There were very good cooks, the replacements didn't follow suit", confides Hélène Roube.

A place "out of time"

The Barrou district seems to be a haven of peace "out of time". "The locals say: "we're going to town" to talk about Sète", says Hélène Roube. Located to the north of Sète, it is the most remote district from the city center and furthest from the sea with the Île de Thau. This slight insularization makes "the’place very pleasant to live in". "We don't even go to the sea anymore. We have the pond, the shells, the fish, the sand and the calm", lists the president of the " rsquo;association.

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