Long Beach Lodge Celebrates the Oyster in Tofino, British Columbia

During Tofino's annual Oyster Month this November, Long Beach Lodge Resort, nestled in a sandy ocean cove, is hosting its annual Oyster Bed Package.

The package includes accommodation for two in a beachfront or ocean view room, continental breakfast, and a three-course dinner prepared by Chef Rob Wheaton featuring his signature oyster dishes.

The Oyster Bed Package, available throughout November, starts at CDN $279 (US $250*) per night, based on double occupancy and a two-night minimum. To make reservations, or for information about the Festival, visit www.longbeachlodgeresort.com or call (877) 844-7873. Flights from Vancouver can also be arranged through the resort.

With over 25 growers in the region and ideal conditions for cultivating the Pacific oyster, Tofino has attracted top culinary talent to work wonders with the area's bumper crop. During Oyster Month, local chefs scream their love from the old-growth forest treetops for this versatile shellfish and prepare them in a multitude of ways.

The marvelous mollusk celebration will take place during the tenth annual Clayoquot Oyster Festival weekend (www.oystergala.com) November 16, 17 and 18. To start the festivities, Raincoast Education Society is presenting a seminar by local marine biologist, Josie Osborne, who will inform and entertain with her oyster overview "On the Half Shell - What is an Oyster."

"For the Love of Oysters", the official launch on Friday, November 17, takes place at Long Beach Lodge Resort, where oyster fare (and more) will be paired with regional wines. Tickets are CDN $25.00 (US$22*) per person and can be purchased when making room bookings.

The evening continues with Mermaid's Ball at the Tofino Community Hall with more oyster sampling and dancing to a live band. Tickets are CDN $25.00 (US $22*) per person and doors open at 8:30 p.m.

On Saturday morning, Oysters Afloat! Oyster Farm Boat Tours depart for a firsthand look at oyster growing, and the festival wraps up with the Oyster Gala, an event cooked up and presented by local chefs at the Tofino Community Hall.

*US rates are based on current rate of exchange and are subject to change

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