The Rockport-Fulton Annual Oysterfest Celebration (March 4,5,6,7 2004) has long been a project of the Fulton Volunteer Fire Department. This 24th annual fund-raiser includes oyster-eating contests, oysters on the half shell, music, and arts and crafts. The event is located at the waterfront in Fulton.

The first full weekend in March is traditionally your best chance to dig-in for your dose of oysters, gumbo and more in the charming coastal town of Fulton. If you underappreciate the role of oysters in one's life, here's your chance to make amends.

Once known as Rocky Point, the Rockport-Fulton area was one of twenty-three original counties of the Republic of Texas and was located where the southwest's great cattle industry began—a place that originally controlled the military and economic destiny of Texas. During the early days, one of the main approaches to the territories of Texas from the sea was Aransas colony to El Copano.

Here, just 30 minutes northeast of Corpus Christi, lies an enchanting village of fishing trawlers, art galleries, charter boats, quaint shops, seafood markets and restaurants, and birds. Lots and lots of birds. Birders from across North America flock here every winter to enjoy what is arguably the finest bird watching terrain in North America.

But in this annual salute to the Texas oyster, it's the sea, and not the sky, that gets much deserved attention. And from the sea, or at least the bays surrounding the region, oysters are king, or at least share the title with shrimp and redfish.

A visit to this charming community nestled on the Texas Coast is great anytime of year, but if you can plan your visit to coincide with this unique festival, you'll enjoy an uncommon celebration of the sea.