Virginia City Serves Up a Heaping Helping of…Well, You Know

If you’ve ever looked at a bull and thought, “I wonder what that fella’s working with under the chassis,” then, by gum, do I have the festival for you. Come Saturday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the fine folks of Virginia City will once again throw caution–and good sense–to the wind for their 34th annual Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry—a gathering so profoundly Western that

the bulls are keeping their legs crossed.

Billed as one of the West’s largest St. Patrick’s Day shindigs, this festival is not for the faint of stomach. The day’s festivities include the infamous Rocky Mountain Oyster cooking competition, where brave chefs go elbow-deep in a delicacy that separates the men from the vegetarians. Competitors will vie for the coveted ‘Best Of’ and ‘People’s Choice’ awards, proving once and for all who can work the most magic with… well, you know.

“Virginia City’s Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry is more than just a food festival—it’s a testament to our community’s knack for keeping with tradition while encouraging fun and creativity,” said Todd Tuttle, tourism director, who presumably has an iron constitution. “With multiple activities throughout the day and plenty of merchant shops to visit along the way, this event is truly one of a kind.”

And what better way to wash down a plate of—you guessed it—deep-fried bovine jewels than with a drink in hand? The St. Paddy Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl kicks off at 11 a.m., ensuring that even the most hesitant participants can find the courage–or at least the inebriation–to take part. Designated drivers get special cups because, let’s face it, this kind of bravery should probably come with a chaperone.

At high noon, C Street will erupt in a sea of green as Virginia City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade marches through town, featuring floats, marching bands, and folks who have had enough whiskey to believe their outfits qualify as festive instead of downright absurd. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their most spirited attire, which, given the town’s history, could mean anything from traditional Irish garb to someone’s great-grandpappy’s old prospector getup.

So, if you’ve ever wanted to eat something you can’t quite make eye contact with beforehand, this is your chance. Bring an appetite, a sense of humor, and maybe an alibi if anyone asks what you were up to during the weekend.