by samsara
Each year on May 5 we celebrate the Oyster Day. If you love oysters or if you love pearls then mark this date on your calendar.
Read through some ideas on how to celebrate this special occasion and some oyster and pearl facts.
As for the origin of this holiday? There seems to be no records when this day was first celebrated or any history about it.
Oyster is an expression used to describe a larger group of shells (bivalvia) which live in marine and brackish (water in between salt and fresh water) waters. Some of the oyster species are praised for their culinary value and some are praised for pearls that can be found inside them.
 Oysters |
Although we do use the general term "Oyster" to describe oyster like shells they come from various shell families. True oysters come from the family Ostreidae and these are the oysters you will find on your plate if you order them (or prepare them yourself).
Pearl oysters are from another family and although they are edible are more known for their pearls. Almost all shells have the ability to produce pearls but most of them are far from perfect and of little value. Pearl oysters secrete the most beautiful and valuable pearls.
Many other shells that have no family ties with oysters share the name, mainly because their resemble true oysters in their shape.
If you are planning on celebrating the Oyster Day the best way to do so is ether to go out to a fancy restaurant where they serve oyster dishes or embark on a culinary journey and prepare a feast of your own. There are many great dishes you can make with them!
Start the day by visiting the fish market and getting some fresh oysters, carefully open them and surprise your loved ones with an exquisite meal!
Remember oysters are said to be an afrodisiac!
You can also spend the day by visiting the Oyster Museum. There are quite a few of them in the US. If there are not any around you can settle for the sea life/maritime museum which will also have a great educational value.
You could also take some time to explore the history behind pearl collecting - pearls are one of the most ancient gems known to men. Explore the history of Japanese pearl diving.
If you want to surprise someone special on that day the perfect gifts would be;
 | Dexter-Russell 2.75-inch Oyster Knife, New Haven pattern If you love oysters you'll have to have an oyster knife. Prying at oyster shells with scissors, knives or screwdrivers is not only frustrating but dangerous. Use this oyster kni... |
 | OXO Good Grips Oyster Knife Oyster Knife, 2.5"/5.5cm, black, stainless steel. A bent tip makes prying open oyster shells easy. Sturdy, stainless steel blade. Soft, comfortable handle won't slip in your han... Only $8.99 |
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How will you celebrate the oyster day?