The cherished Oysterfest, an event eagerly anticipated by attendees from various regions, is facing significant changes this year due to the impacts of inflation. This annual festival, known for its vibrant opening night fireworks display, is scaling back its festivities in response to economic pressures.
The Fulton Volunteer Fire Department, which heavily depends on the revenue generated from Oysterfest, has decided to cancel this year’s fireworks show. The cost of such a spectacle has become untenably high amidst rising prices. “Last year, it was about $30,000 for 14 minutes,” explained Fulton Mayor Kelli Cole. The financial strain has also been exacerbated by the need to source new suppliers for essential services. “The biggest expense is the tents and the fencing,” Cole added, noting the retirement of a long-time tent provider, which led to increased costs with a new company.
Chief Cody Morales of the Fulton Volunteer Fire Department underscored the importance of Oysterfest to their operations. The festival, spanning four days, is instrumental in funding the department’s necessities throughout the year, from equipment to maintenance of their stations. “This four-day event is essentially half our budget for the year,” Morales stated, highlighting the event’s critical role in supporting their essential services.
More than just financial considerations influenced the decision to forgo the fireworks. According to Morales, unpredictable weather conditions in March, such as fog and strong winds, have historically posed challenges to the execution of the fireworks show. “A lot of time in March, it was foggy or real windy,” he remarked. “Sometimes we can’t even do the show, so we decided to cut that show and spend that money elsewhere.”
Despite the absence of the fireworks, Mayor Cole remains optimistic about the festival’s appeal. She anticipates loyal attendees from cities like San Antonio, Houston, Victoria, and Corpus Christi will continue supporting the event. The festival’s ability to draw crowds eager to partake in oyster shucking and enjoy its other attractions is a testament to its enduring popularity.
Looking ahead, there is hope for the return of the fireworks display at future Oysterfests. Mayor Cole expressed a commitment to adapting to the new financial landscape, with plans to explore alternative funding strategies and more cost-effective event planning. “It’s mainly San Antonio, the Houston area, those are the biggest areas we got, Victoria and Corpus,” she affirmed, indicating the broad support base for the festival.
Adjusting the festival’s offerings amid economic challenges reflects the organizers’ dedication to ensuring its sustainability. By prioritizing essential expenses and exploring new avenues for budget management, the Fulton Volunteer Fire Department and city officials are determined to maintain the spirit of Oysterfest. The community’s resilience and adaptability in the face of financial pressures serve as a reminder of the importance of coming together to support beloved local traditions, even when it means making tough choices. As plans for future festivals take shape, there is a collective hope for the return of all the cherished elements of Oysterfest, including the much-missed fireworks display, ensuring that this annual celebration continues to thrive for years to come.