ROSCOE VILLAGE — The 18th annual Shock Top Oyster Fest returns to Roscoe Village Saturday, and every year we use this as an opportunity to learn something new about mollusks.
Like the fact that New York City just announced a plan to grow them on toilets.
Turns out, crushed porcelain from recycled toilets is the perfect habitat to encourage oyster growth in New York Harbor, where the bivalves once thrived until they were harvested to near extinction.
In fact, back in the 1600s, the harbor was home to half the world's oyster supply — frankly, they're more American than hot dogs and apple pie.
RELATED: 5 Things To Know About Oysters
On Saturday, Oyster Fest will be serving up mollusks freshly harvested in British Columbia and Virginia. The event runs 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Damen and Roscoe.
In addition to oysters, other food and drink will be available for purchase.
Music kicks off at noon and if you like Bruce Springsteen, you're in for a treat. Chicago singer-songwriter Michael McDermott, once hailed as the heir apparent to The Boss, will take the stage at 1:30 p.m., and Bruce In The USA tribute band will close out the fest at 8 p.m.
Neighbors should be prepared for "no parking" zones coinciding with the fest, according to the 32nd Ward office.
Affected streets, from midnight Friday through 6 a.m. Sunday: Roscoe from Damen to Hamilton; stretches of Seeley, Hoyne and Hamilton north and south of Roscoe to each east/west alley.
Admission to Oyster Fest is a suggested $7 donation.
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