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PUTNAM --- What started out as a lofty idea in April of 2009 turned into an overwhelming successful local restaurant events.
Chef/Owner James Martin of 85 Main in Putnam promises not to disappoint with this year’s 3rd annual 85 Main Shuck-Off, an oyster shucking competition and shellfish celebration that is expected to rally thousands of people into downtown Putnam.
The event will take place from noon to 6 p.m. May 1 at Rotary Park. The rain date is May 7.
The Shuck-Off outgrew itself quickly in the first two years and Martin knew that the restaurant could no longer physically cater to such a large crowd.
The town of Putnam has permitted 85 Main to change the events location to Rotary Park. The first Riverfire of the season follows the Shuck-Off.
Tickets can be purchased to buy Shrimp, Mussels, Clams, Fritters, Steamers, Oysters, Margaritas, Draft Beer, Wine, and Sangria (IDs are needed for alcohol). Music from the band Truffle and local favorites Big Jump and the Doors of Deception will be part of the festivities.
At 2, over 15 of the industry’s top contestants will compete in the Shuck-Off competition. Ed Bolus, who hails from Mill’s Tavern in Providence, will be returning to defend his title against the Oyster Shucking World Champion William “Chopper” Young. Contenders will be traveling for this event from regional favorites such as the Providence Oyster Bar, Union Oyster House in Boston, Max’s Oyster Bar in Hartford, as well as remote locations like Baltimore, Virginia, and Florida.
A limited amount of seating and picnic tables will be provided, so guests are encouraged to bring their own portable chairs. The Shuck-Off is considered a family occasion where adults as well as children can enjoy the day’s events.
American Mussel Harvester of North Kingstown, R.I., will be the major sponsor of this event. Cosponsors include Mohegan Sun, Narragansett Beer, the Putnam Business Association, and a multitude of national distributors and many local sponsors.