Tampa Oyster Fest has come a long way since the backyard party it used to host at the nonprofit’s Tampa Heights HQ.

To support its mission to help kids build emotional intelligence through self-awareness, self-management, empathy, responsible decision-making and relationship skills, this year’s party features all you can eat oysters steamed, chargrilled or raw, plus barbecue and a low country boil.

Live music includes a set from Cameron Williams’ Southern roots band Tishamingo which worked with John Keene (R.E.M, Widespread Panic) and David Barbe (who was in Bob Mould’s band, Sugar, in the ‘90s) on its albums. Guest bartenders (including this author) will make your drinks, too.

There’s still a few $125 tickets to 2023’s Oyster Fest, happening on Sunday, Dec. 10, up for grabs. This annual fundraising events takes place at Tabellas at Delaney Creek located at 5818 Causeway Blvd. in Tampa. Subscribe to Creative Loafing newsletters.